EXO Returns with a Full-Length Album After Approximately 2 Years and 6 Months

As the K-pop market has recently been reshaped with a focus on new artists, second- and third-generation legendary idol groups such as BTS, BLACKPINK, EXO, and BIGBANG have successively announced their comeback plans. Experts consider these returns to be more than just a resumption of activities; they represent signals that could shake up the market landscape.

EXO began its official promotions on the 19th with the release of its eighth full-length album, “REVERXE.” This album marks their first full-length release in approximately 2 years and 6 months, as well as their most recent complete studio album since November 2022. The title track, “Crown,” is a hard dance song that combines Atlanta trap drums, heavy metal guitars, and EDM synths, featuring a strong male idol sound that is rare in contemporary K-pop.

The lyrics of “Crown” compare a precious person to a “crown,” conveying a message of protecting that person until the end—a theme that aligns with the narrative EXO built during its early days. However, due to legal disputes with their agency, some members were unable to participate, resulting in the album being released as a six-member project. The fact that they chose to release a full-length album despite not being a complete group suggests that EXO still values album-based activities highly.

“REVERXE” immediately topped China’s QQ Music digital album sales chart upon release and received double platinum certification. It also reached number one on Tencent Music’s music platform and Kugou Music, as well as on the iTunes Top Albums chart in 35 regions worldwide. The album claimed the top spots on Japan’s Oricon and AWA charts, as well as South Korea’s Hanteo chart.

BLACKPINK is set to release its third mini-album, “DEADLINE,” on February 27th. This album will be their first complete group release in 3 years and 5 months, as well as their most recent new music since their second full-length album in September 2022. BLACKPINK has already established itself as a leading model for K-pop girl groups in the global market. They reached number one on the Billboard 200 with their second full-length album, “Born Pink,” and further demonstrated the group’s global influence when their digital single “Jump” topped the Billboard Global 200 last year.

Industry insiders believe that returning as a complete group is more significant than the success of the new music itself. With second- and third-generation idols returning to a K-pop market now dominated by newcomers, experts predict these groups will have an impact on both global fanbases and the album market.