K-Pop’s comeback era begins in 2026: From BTS to BLACKPINK

If there’s one word that defines 2026 for K-pop fans, it’s reunion. After years of solo ventures, enlistments, and industry shifts, some of the most influential Korean pop acts are reassembling for full-group activities. From long-awaited albums to historic global stages, these returns promise to reshape the K-pop landscape once again.

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BTS: The Kings Return After Military Hiatus

The most anticipated comeback of the decade arrives on March 20, 2026, when BTS release a brand-new album. This marks their first full-group project after more than two years, following the military enlistment of Jin, J-Hope, Suga, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Their reunion is expected to be a defining cultural moment- not just for ARMY, but for the global music industry at large.

EXO: A New Era With REVERXE

EXO are officially back in album mode with their eighth studio release, REVERXE, scheduled for January 19, 2026. Their return follows a symbolic group appearance at the Melon Music Awards 2025 in Seoul, which reignited comeback rumors. The album currently confirms six members- Suho, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, Sehun, and Lay- signaling a renewed chapter for the third-generation powerhouse.

BIGBANG: Festival Glory on a Global Stage

Second-generation legends BIGBANG are set to make waves again with a high-profile performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April 2026. G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung will reunite for their first major group activity since releasing Still Life in 2022, marking a rare and powerful moment for long-time fans.

I.O.I: A Decade Later, Together Again

Though I.O.I officially disbanded in January 2017, the iconic project group will reunite in spring 2026 to celebrate their 10th debut anniversary. Nine members- including Jeon Somi, Kim Sejeong, Chungha, and Jung Chaeyeon- will participate. Kang Mina will sit out due to acting commitments, but the reunion remains a nostalgic milestone.

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BLACKPINK: Studio Comeback After Global Triumph

Following their record-breaking DEADLINE world tour- where they became the first K-pop girl group to headline a solo concert at London’s Wembley Stadium- BLACKPINK are preparing a full-group comeback in 2026. The upcoming release will be their first studio album since Born Pink in 2022, closing the reunion list on a high note.