K-pop artists herald an exciting 2023 by announcing comebacks after long hiatuses and solo debuts from the very beginning of the year.
First of all, boy groups VIXX and EXO delivered the news of their group activities after keeping fans waiting for a long time. VIXX will release the digital single “Gonna Be Alright” to mark the group’s 10th debut anniversary. Releasing new music for the first time in 4 years since 2019, member Hyuk participated in composing and writing lyrics to deliver messages of comfort to fans. Excluding Ravi, who has established his own one-man agency, and N, who is focusing on acting, only three members, Ken, Leo and Hyuk, carry out this comeback together. However, they are raising fans’ expectations by announcing their plan to meet fans through fanconcert on the 6th and 7th of January.
EXO also hinted at a group comeback after members complete military service. On January 1st, leader Suho posted a photo of EXO and fans on his SNS account and said, “Everyone, happy new year. EXO will make a comeback in 2023”. During the group’s long “military period” due to members’ consecutive enlistments, EXO has focused on solo activities. As Baek Hyun is scheduled to be discharged on February 5th, EXO is expected to present performances as a whole group after a long time.
Byul is also releasing her first full album after 14 years. “Startrail”, which will be introduced on January 11th, is an album to commemorate Byul’s 20th debut anniversary. Like the title “Startrail (Byul’s trail)”, this album contains her musical journey of the past 20 years and in the future. Attention is focused on the return of Byul, the original “master of emotional songs”, more than 4 years since 2018 through her first full album in 14 years since 2009.
YG Entertainment artists have also opened up about their plans for solo activities. In particular, BLACKPINK Jisoo is arousing keen interest as she recently hinted at her solo debut. As the last member of BLACKPINK to debut solo, Jisoo is making all efforts to release her album within this year. As other BLACKPINK members were all successful with their solo albums, expectations are high for Jisoo’s solo moves.
After the departures of all Big Bang members, G-Dragon, who is left in YG alone, is also gearing up for his comeback with a solo album after 6 years. YG recently reported the news of G-Dragon’s contract renewal and new album preparation at the same time. Taeyang, who joined hands with YG’s sublabel The Black Label, surprised everyone by announcing an amazing collaboration with BTS Jimin. The digital single “Vibe” to be published on January 13th is Taeyang’s first music release in 6 years. Taeyang’s unique groove and Jimin’s delicate sensibility are expected to create extraordinary synergy.
Source: Daum
