Disbanded K-pop groups reunite, fulfilling fans’ wishes and reigniting old passions

AKP STAFF

“The members’ desire to gift fans with precious memories came together, leading to the (reunion) project being realized.”

Lately, there has been a trend in the music industry where disbanded girl groups are reuniting. Though the groups had disbanded, the fans who continued to support their full-group activities have brought these members back together. The members’ passion for these reunions is as strong as ever.

First, 2NE1, known for hit songs such as “Fire,” “I Don’t Care,” “Can’t Nobody,” “Go Away,” “Clap Your Hands,” and “I Am the Best,” is preparing for their first solo concert in eight years since their disbandment in 2016. While the group performed a surprise reunion at the 2022 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, this upcoming concert marks their first official solo performance in 10 years, since 2014.

The members expressed their desire to hold a concert this year to commemorate their 15th debut anniversary to YG Entertainment’s chief producer Yang Hyun Suk, and as a result, an Asia tour was arranged. The tour will kick off in Seoul with a three-day concert from October 4th to 6th at the Olympic Park’s Olympic Hall.

YG Entertainment stated, “This is a monumental year marking their 15th debut anniversary, and the dramatic reunion of 2NE1. There was a strong determination to start their performances within this year. Fans can expect overwhelming performances, YG’s high-quality production, and a rich setlist, making for a highly complete stage experience, only possible with 2NE1.”

In addition, both Lovelyz and GFRIEND have announced their reunions. Lovelyz, who debuted in 2014, and GFRIEND, who debuted in 2015, both parted ways in 2021 after their contracts expired.

Lovelyz will hold a concert titled “Winterland of Lovelyz 4” on November 16th and 17th at the Jamsil Students’ Gymnasium in Seoul, followed by a tour in Macau and Taiwan. GFRIEND, on the other hand, will reunite four years after their disbandment for a project celebrating their 10th debut anniversary in January next year.

FIESTAR, celebrating their 12th debut anniversary this year, has also hinted at a comeback after disbanding six years ago. Notably, member Cao Lu revealed, “My dream has always been to reunite, and to make that dream come true, I saved money through live commerce in China. With that money, I purchased the copyright to Fiestar’s song ‘You’re Pitiful.’” It has been reported that the members are directly involved in planning and producing a remake of “You’re Pitiful,” a song they felt deserved more recognition.

Industry insiders suggest that other groups may also reunite in the near future. One insider remarked, “The current music market’s characteristics, which allow for more flexibility in promotion and activities, have likely contributed to this trend. With the abundance of media channels that make it easy for artists to be visible and active, and with more active fan communities, it’s now easier for fans’ desires to reach the artists.”

While individual members’ willingness to reunite plays a significant role, it’s also an attractive option for agencies. In a highly competitive industry where it’s difficult for new artists to stand out, reunions of established idol groups with existing fandoms offer stability.

The insider further explained, “For agencies, reuniting an already established idol group presents fewer risks in terms of budget and generating buzz compared to launching new artists. Bringing back an idol group with proven popularity could also contribute to revenue growth, including concert profits.”