The Exciting Comeback Season in K-Pop: What to Expect
By Laila Mishazira – published 23 May 2025
There’s only one thing we look forward to more than an upcoming concert, and it’s, well… an upcoming comeback. The K-pop scene is buzzing with anticipation as a wave of beloved groups prepares to return to the spotlight.
The Evolution of K-Pop
In the 2000s, household names like Big Bang, Girls’ Generation, and 2NE1 kicked off the Hallyu wave, but it’s only in the past seven years that K-pop has truly infiltrated the global mainstream. Artists like BTS, BLACKPINK, Stray Kids, and SEVENTEEN have transformed the genre from a niche interest into a worldwide phenomenon. Now, the question is no longer “Who are they?” but rather, “Who doesn’t know them?”
Korean acts have been lighting up international stages, topping global charts, and creating a cultural phenomenon that transcends borders. As we enter this comeback season, it’s time to mark your calendars because a plethora of groups—both rookies and veterans—are gearing up to make their return, and they’re not waiting for anyone. Get ready to stan all over again.
Confirmed Returns
25 May 2025: SHINee – Poet | Artist
The legendary SHINee is set to make a heartfelt return on 25 May with Poet | Artist, their first single album since the passing of member Jonghyun. This title pays tribute to him, echoing the name of his second and final studio album released posthumously in 2018. This release is not just a musical offering to their dedicated fanbase, the Shawols, but also a poignant homage to their former member.
26 May 2025: SEVENTEEN – HAPPY BURSTDAY
On 26 May, SEVENTEEN will celebrate their tenth anniversary with their fifth full-length album, HAPPY BURSTDAY. Featuring 16 tracks and creative input from all 13 members, this album promises a fresh wave of energy and bops aplenty. With a thrilling new concept and visual direction, fans can expect to see a side of SEVENTEEN that they have yet to experience.
26 May 2025: IRENE & SEULGI (Red Velvet) – TILT
Power duo Irene and Seulgi from Red Velvet will also be back on 26 May with their second mini album, TILT. This release is expected to delve into moodier and more intense territory compared to their previous EP, Monster (2020). Fans can anticipate a daring exploration of experimental sounds that push artistic boundaries.
27 May 2025: IU – Flower Bookmark 3
Known affectionately as “The Nation’s Little Sister,” IU will return on 27 May with Flower Bookmark 3. This third EP in her beloved series promises her signature uplifting sound, heartfelt lyrics, and delicate melodies that have long defined her unique musical style.
5 June 2025: ENHYPEN – DESIRE: UNLEASH
Boyband powerhouse ENHYPEN is set to release their sixth mini album, DESIRE: UNLEASH, on 5 June. This time, they’re drifting slightly away from their usual edgy, dark concepts, rolling out chirpy tunes perfect for summer listening. However, with their immersive horror escape game titled “ENHYPEN ESCAPE,” fans are left wondering if the music will reflect a similar contrast.
9 June 2025: ITZY – Girls Will Be Girls
Girl group ITZY is returning with their tenth mini album, Girls Will Be Girls, on 9 June. Following an impressive movie-like trailer, fans are eager to see how this concept will translate sonically. One thing’s for sure: MIDZYs can expect fierce energy, bold messages, and the signature confidence that has made ITZY a standout force in K-pop.
16 June 2025: ILLIT – bomb
Rookie group ILLIT is set to maximize their ‘girl next door’ charm with their upcoming mini album, bomb, releasing on 16 June. The tracks promise to hit the sweet spot between charmingly tender and vibrantly youthful, showcasing their growth as artists.
27 June 2025: KATSEYE – BEAUTIFUL CHAOS
KATSEYE is ready to shake things up with their upcoming release, BEAUTIFUL CHAOS, on 27 June. Departing from the airy vibes of their previous era, this new direction into noise pop is set to unveil an exciting side of the group that fans have yet to see.
11 July 2025: TWICE – THIS IS FOR
K-pop veterans TWICE are proving their status as queens of reinvention with their fourth full album, THIS IS FOR, dropping on 11 July. Approaching this comeback with It girl energy and evolved artistry, they’re set to captivate both old and new ONCEs alike.
To Be Announced
June 2025: aespa
Aespa is reportedly making their comeback in June 2025, continuing their pursuit of evolving the digital-meets-reality world. Known for their unique blend of hyper-pop sounds and cybernetic visuals, their upcoming release is sure to enrich K-pop storytelling even further.
2025: BTS
No discussion of K-pop would be complete without mentioning BTS. After a two-year hiatus due to military service, the seven members of the world’s biggest boyband are expected to return to the stage bolder and better than ever. While details surrounding their comeback remain under wraps, ARMYs are eagerly awaiting news, hoping for a spring day when their favorite group reunites.
As the K-pop landscape continues to evolve, fans can look forward to an exciting season filled with fresh sounds, heartfelt tributes, and bold artistic directions. The stage is set, and the anticipation is palpable—let the comebacks begin!