As 2026 begins, changes in the K-pop scene are becoming prominent. EXO announced their comeback starting in the second half of last year and officially resumed activities on December 8, 2025. They released a comeback trailer video prominently featuring the "Tree of Life," the root of their vast universe. EXO appeared at the "2025 Melon Music Awards (2025 MMA)" for the first time in eight years, delivering a stage of about 13 minutes including their representative songs and new tracks. This performance sparked great excitement within the K-pop community. The audience cheered in sync with the intro of "Growl," showcasing support chants celebrating EXO's comeback.

EXO's comeback also influenced BTS and Wanna One. BTS is preparing for a comeback as the new year begins. After member Suga completed his military service in June last year, the group communicated with fans to announce their comeback. BTS's new album is scheduled for release on March 20 and will consist of 14 tracks. This marks their first full-length album in six years.

Wanna One, originating from a survival program, gained immense popularity during their short 18-month activity period. They are credited with "changing K-pop consumption patterns." Even after disbandment, various subunits have remained active, leaving a significant impact on K-pop. Wanna One has teased their comeback through a reality program, which is set to air on Mnet within the first half of the year.

At the beginning of 2026, the simultaneous comebacks of EXO, BTS, and Wanna One are causing a major stir in the K-pop world. This trend is not just a temporary phenomenon. The reunion wave is spreading globally, not only in Korea. One of the major themes in the Korean music scene in 2025 was the visits of overseas reunion bands. Bands that enjoyed their heyday in the 1990s, such as Oasis, Pulp, Suede, and Smashing Pumpkins, visited Korea. They returned to fans after a long wait.

The 2020s are called the "Era of Long-Lasting Idols." As the median age in South Korea rises, perceptions of idols are changing. Idols, once considered to have seven-year contracts, are now evolving into a form that balances solo and group activities. This is based on the belief that solo activities positively influence group activities. Successful reunions of first-generation idol groups like H.O.T, S.E.S., Sechs Kies, and Fin.K.L support this trend. The activities of Girls' Generation and Kara, who celebrated their 15th anniversaries in 2022, remain good examples of the era of long-lasting idols.

Along with public nostalgia, idols' skillful activities are forming new fan bases. The large-scale comebacks of third-generation idol groups are a continuation of this trend. They are returning with the confidence and composure that match their proven skills and experience. Fans are accepting them as a new form of idols.

In recent years, K-pop has emphasized the "5th generation." However, the unexpected return of the 3rd generation is currently drawing attention. Agencies aimed to continue the momentum of the "4th generation girl group boom," but ultimately, the comeback of 3rd generation idols stands out more. As K-pop enters 2026, it is entering a new phase. These changes demonstrate K-pop's ongoing development and diversity.