Major Transformation in K-POP Industry in 2025: Full BTS Return and BLACKPINK’s World Tour Spark Expectations for a New Surge

The K-POP industry is preparing major Comeback events in 2025 to overcome the crisis caused by weak album sales and controversies last year. Industry experts predict that the full return of BTS and BLACKPINK’s world tour will be the biggest factors shaping this year’s landscape. BTS’s complete return is the most anticipated event of the year. After approximately two years of waiting due to the members’ sequential military enlistment that began in 2021, the final five members—SUGA, RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook—will finish their military service by the end of June. Although HYBE has not officially announced any plans for new songs or albums in the first half of the year, music critic Im Hee-yoon stated, “It may be difficult to release new songs or EPs in the second half, but various events aimed at reuniting with the global fanbase are essential.” However, how SUGA handles the drunk driving incident he was involved in last year will likely be a key concern. BLACKPINK’s resumption of activities is also drawing attention. YG Entertainment has announced the release of a new album and a world tour for the group. Jennie, Lisa, and Rosé, who have been pursuing independent activities since their solo contracts were not renewed in 2023, have achieved notable results in their solo careers. Music critic Im Hee-yoon expressed optimism, saying, “Given that Jennie, Lisa, and Rosé have delivered impressive solo achievements outside of YG, the synergy they will create when coming together as more evolved artists will be significant.” Since BLACKPINK generated revenue worth 300 billion won (approximately $225 million) from their ‘Born Pink’ world tour held at the end of 2022, their 2025 tour is expected to play a crucial role in expanding the global profitability of the K-POP industry. Major agencies are also releasing new works one after another. Stray Kids have planned to release two albums in 2025 (under the project name ‘STEP OUT 2025’), while TREASURE is hinting at an evolution in their sound. GOT7 and INFINITE are both working on group projects for the first time since their disbands. SM Entertainment is set to release solo albums by KAI, Seulgi, and TEN, and YG Entertainment has officially confirmed albums from AKMU, WINNER, and BABYMONSTER. JYP Entertainment is preparing for the Debut of the new boy group KickFlip on January 6. The rise of next-generation groups is also generating excitement. BOYNEXTDOOR, which debuted in 2024, has confirmed a Comeback in May, while TWS will release their third mini-album on April 21. Groups that changed labels, such as LE SSERAFIM, have also officially announced they will resume activities in 2025. Additionally, virtual idols are gaining prominence. SM’s virtual idol NAIVIS has confirmed appearances at the 2026 SM 30th Anniversary Concert (January 11–12 at Gocheok Sky Dome), following the release of the ‘Don’ remix in 2024. Music critic Kim Do-heon analyzed, “While BTS’s resumption of activities is the main focus, world tours by global boy bands will also generate significant buzz and sustain industry momentum.” Experts predict that the expansion of world tours will help K-POP capture a larger share of the global market, thereby generating substantial profits. Nevertheless, the industry still faces many challenges from 2024, including controversial issues. There is growing pressure to address long-standing structural problems such as improving the treatment of trainees and enhancing the working conditions of idols. Industry insiders point out that resolving these issues will require considerable time and effort.