K-Pop Groups Expand Global Activities Through European Tours and Global Auditions

The K-pop industry is aggressively expanding its reach into international markets. Both emerging K-pop groups and major agencies are making efforts to build a global fanbase through European tours and global auditions.

K-pop group XLOV consists of four members: the Leader and co-producers Umuti, Louis, Hyun, and Haru. Their fandom is called Evol. The group is currently on its first European tour and is set to perform at The Halls in Wolverhampton, UK, on February 11. XLOV also plans to hold a show in Manchester the following day, on February 12.

Meanwhile, Source Music, the agency famous for LE SSERAFIM, held its first global audition aimed at recruiting male trainees worldwide. Named “Source Music 2026 Global Boy Audition,” this audition will take place online from January 5 to January 25. Men born after 2008 are eligible to apply regardless of their nationality or residence location. Applicants can showcase their skills through vocals, rapping, dancing, or any format that reflects their individuality. Source Music, an agency known for developing female groups such as Gfriend and LE SSERAFIM, aims to expand its business into developing male artists through this audition.

In 2026, 16 K-pop world tours are scheduled in Europe. Most of these tours will take place in January and February, though some will continue until June. In addition to well-known groups, emerging artists making their first European tours are also included. In particular, BTS is attracting attention for its first tour since all its members have completed their military service. BTS’s 2026 world tour schedule is expected to be released at midnight on January 14, with the release of its fifth studio album planned for March 20.

ARTMS, known as members of LOONA, will visit Europe as part of the “GRAND CLUB ICARUS” world tour, performing in six cities including London, Paris, Cologne, Munich, Helsinki, and Warsaw. This expansion of international activities demonstrates that K-pop has evolved from a cultural phenomenon within South Korea into a global entertainment industry.