After years of a rookie-centered K-pop market, legendary 2nd- and 3rd-generation idol groups including BTS, BLACKPINK, EXO, and BIGBANG —are officially preparing major comebacks. Industry experts believe these returns go beyond simple activity resumptions and could significantly reshape the current K-pop landscape.
EXO Leads the Comeback Wave
EXO fired the opening signal on January 19 with the release of their eighth full-length album, REVERXE, marking their first studio album in approximately two and a half years since 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 liken a cherished person to a “crown,” vowing protection at all costs a theme that echoes EXO’s early narrative identity.
Due to ongoing legal disputes with their agency, the album was released as a six-member project. Nevertheless, the decision to return with a full album highlights EXO’s continued commitment to album-centered artistry.
Commercially, REVERXE debuted at No. 1 on QQ Music’s digital album chart in China, earning double platinum certification. It also topped Tencent Music platforms, iTunes Top Albums charts in 35 regions worldwide, Japan’s RecoChoku and AWA charts, and Korea’s Hanteo Chart.
BLACKPINK Confirms Full-Group Return
BLACKPINK has officially confirmed their full-group comeback with the release of their third mini album DEADLINE on February 27. This marks their first complete group album in three years and five months since BORN PINK in September 2022.
Already established as the global standard for K-pop girl groups, BLACKPINK previously topped the Billboard 200 with BORN PINK. Their 2024 digital single “JUMP” also reached No. 1 on the Billboard Global 200, reaffirming their global influence.
Industry insiders note that the stability and symbolism of BLACKPINK’s full-group return may be more significant than individual chart results. Following sold-out shows at Tokyo Dome from January 16 to 18, BLACKPINK will continue with concerts at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium on January 24, 25, and 26, concluding their BLACKPINK WORLD TOUR , spanning 16 cities and 33 shows.
BTS’ Post-Military Return Set to Shake the Industry
BTS’ comeback is widely viewed as the most impactful variable in the current market. The group will return as a full unit on March 20 with their fifth full-length album, their first since the 2022 anthology Proof and their first studio album in six years since MAP OF THE SOUL: 7.
This marks BTS’ first complete group activity following military service, positioning the release as a defining moment for their post-enlistment era. Titled Arirang, the album draws inspiration from Korea’s iconic folk song, reflecting themes of longing, 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 their roots and a renewed declaration 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 span 34 cities and 79 shows, making it the largest single tour ever undertaken by a K-pop act, including stadium shows across major global markets.
HYBE has also applied for permission to hold a BTS performance near Gwanghwamun and Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, further amplifying the symbolic weight of their return by tying it to national landmarks.
BIGBANG Marks 20 Years With 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 signal of reunion on a global stage.
The return of 2nd- and 3rd-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 watching closely as these veteran groups set new benchmarks for longevity, scale, and cultural impact in K-pop’s evolving era.
Sources: Daum
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