The Korean music industry has been swept up in reunion fever throughout 2026, with the long-awaited returns of I.O.I and Wanna One reigniting nostalgia among K-pop fans. Now, although an official comeback remains unlikely, a heartfelt gathering of IZ*ONE members has become the latest topic captivating fans.
A casual meetup, organized after leader Kwon Eun Bi responded to a group chat message, has once again reminded fans that the bond between the former Produce 48 members remains as strong as ever.
One of the biggest K-pop stories of the first half of 2026 was the miraculous reunion of I.O.I, the legendary project girl group born from Produce 101. Returning in May, nine members reunited excluding Kyulkyung (Zhou Jieqiong) and Kang Mina to release their third mini album, I.O.I: LOOP. Led by the title track “Suddenly,” the album topped digital charts, earned multiple music show victories, and sold out concert tickets, proving the group’s enduring popularity.
Following I.O.I’s success, fellow Produce 101 project group Wanna One also announced a reunion. Nine members reunited, with Kang Daniel currently serving in the military and Lai Kuan Lin focusing on overseas activities. The group shared emotional behind-the-scenes stories through the reality show Wanna One Go: Back to Base, while also announcing plans to perform at KCON LA this summer.
Amid the excitement surrounding project-group reunions, former IZ*ONE member Yabuki Nako revealed an emotional story during her Japanese radio program Recommen!
While visiting South Korea for work, Nako posted a message in the former members’ group chat to let everyone know she would be in town. According to Nako, Kwon Eun Bi immediately stepped in. “Eun Bi unnie was the first to respond. She checked everyone’s schedules and found the day when the most members could gather.” Her simple initiative resulted in an unforgettable reunion.
Photos later shared by Kwon Eun Bi on Instagram showed seven members attending the gathering: Kwon Eun Bi, Jo Yuri, Choi Yena, Kim Chaewon, Kim Minju, Honda Hitomi and Yabuki Nako. Considering each member now has an incredibly busy career as solo artists, members of top girl groups, or actresses the fact that more than half of the group managed to meet was remarkable.
The members first spent time together at Kwon Eun Bi’s café before moving to Choi Yena’s home, where the reunion became even more nostalgic. Nako shared that they watched old IZ*ONE performances together, including their memorable MAMA Hong Kong stage. The members also reminisced about behind-the-scenes stories, personal memories, and little secrets from their promotion days.
Reflecting on the gathering, Nako said: “I felt so happy because I got to spend time with people who make me feel completely comfortable and at ease.” Her heartfelt comments quickly resonated with longtime fans.
The recent success of I.O.I and Wanna One naturally raises questions about whether IZ*ONE could eventually reunite as well. However, an official comeback remains difficult for several reasons. Many members are currently leading successful careers under different agencies:
- Jang Wonyoung and Ahn Yujin are key members of IVE.
- Sakura and Kim Chaewon are leading LE SSERAFIM.
- Kwon Eun Bi, Jo Yuri, and Choi Yena have established themselves as successful solo artists.
- Kim Minju has built a thriving acting career.
Coordinating schedules and agency agreements for all twelve members would be an enormous challenge.
Even without an official reunion announcement, fans see this gathering as something deeply meaningful. The members continue to stay connected through their group chat despite living in different countries, working under different agencies, and pursuing completely different careers. The fact that Kwon Eun Bi could simply send a message, coordinate schedules, and bring together so many members highlights how close they remain years after disbandment.
For fans, that enduring friendship may be just as meaningful as any official comeback.
Sources: Daum | 마이데일리
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