After years of a beginner-focused K-pop market, legendary second- and third-generation idol groups, including BTS, BLACKPINK, EXO and BIGBANG, are officially preparing major comebacks. Industry experts believe these returns go beyond simply reviving business and could significantly reshape the current K-pop landscape.
EXO leads the comeback wave
EXO kicked off on January 19 with the release of their eighth album, REVERSEmarking their first studio album in approximately two and a half years from November 2022.
The title track “Crown” blends Atlanta trap drums, heavy metal guitar and EDM synths, presenting a powerful male idol sound rarely seen in recent K-pop releases. The lyrics compare a loved one to a “crown,” vowing protection at all costs, a theme that echoes EXO’s initial narrative identity.
Due to ongoing legal disputes with their agency, the album was released as a six-member project. However, the decision to return with a full album highlights EXO’s continued commitment to album-centric artistry.
Commercially, REVERSE debuted at No. 1 on QQ Music’s digital album chart in China, achieving double platinum certification. It also topped the Tencent Music platforms, the iTunes Top Albums charts in 35 regions worldwide, Japan’s RecoChoku and AWA charts, and Korea’s Hanteo chart.
BLACKPINK confirms the return of the entire group
BLACKPINK has officially confirmed the entire group’s return with the release of their third mini album EXPIRATION on February 27. This marks their first full-length album as a group in three years and five months since then BORN PINK in September 2022.
Already established as the global standard for K-pop girl groups, BLACKPINK has already reached the top of the Billboard 200 BORN PINK. Their 2024 digital single “JUMP” they also reached number 1 on the Billboard Global 200, reaffirming their global influence.
Industry insiders note that the stability and symbolism of the performance of the entire BLACKPINK group may be more significant than the results of individual charts. After sold-out shows at Tokyo Dome from January 16 to 18, BLACKPINK will continue with concerts at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong on January 24, 25 and 26, concluding their BLACKPINK WORLD TOUR covering 16 cities and 33 shows.
BTS’ post-military comeback is set to shake up the industry
The return of BTS is widely seen as the most impactful variable in the current market. The group will return as a full unit on March 20 with their fifth album, their first since the 2022 anthology Trial and their first studio album in six years since then SOUL MAP: 7.
This marks BTS’s first full group activity following their military service, positioning the release as a defining moment for their post-enlistment era. Titled Arirangthe album draws inspiration from the iconic Korean folk song, reflecting themes of desire, love and identity. The members described the project as an album that captures the emotions and experiences of their hiatus while reaffirming who they are as a group.
Forbes described the album as “a symbolic return to one’s roots and a renewed statement of sharing Korean culture with the world.” BTS will launch a massive world tour starting in April in Goyang, Korea, followed by North America, Europe, South America and Asia. The tour will visit 34 cities and 79 shows, making it the largest tour ever undertaken by a K-pop group, including stadium shows in major global markets.
HYBE also requested permission to hold a BTS show near Gwanghwamun and Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, further amplifying the symbolic weight of their return by linking it to national reference points.
BIGBANG celebrates 20 years with a global reunion
Celebrating their 20th anniversary, BIGBANG will resume activities as a trio G-Dragon, Taeyang and Daesung with a highly anticipated appearance at Coachella 2026 in April. Their performance is expected to serve as a powerful rallying cry on a global stage.
The return of the second and third generation legends is more than a nostalgic revival. Their reemergence reconnects K-pop’s past and present while reaffirming the genre’s influence on the global music market. Fans and industry professionals alike are closely watching these veteran groups set new benchmarks for longevity, reach and cultural impact in the evolving era of K-pop.
Sources: Daum
