With a recent surge of nostalgia for the early 2010’s, we’ve been feeling waves of good memories of easier days coming back — whether that be through reminiscing about old trends or reconnecting to the music from those good times. We’ve seen it happen with the resurgence of popularity of songs by Fetty Wap and the Chainsmokers as they climb the Philippine charts.
However, this trend is not reserved for Western music alone, as many K-pop fans have taken to social media to express their longing to see their favorite groups from the genre’s earlier generations. We can see it in the massive hype that followed the announcement of BTS’ return, and we can also see it in how songs like AOA’s “Miniskirt” and Taeyang’s “Wedding Dress” continue to trend. With this, the same powerful acts that paved the way for the Hallyu wave have been making their returns to music, reintroducing their sound to the modern-day K-pop audience.
With that, let’s take a look at some of Billboard Philippines’ favorite K-pop comebacks from second and third generation acts from the past year.
Apink – “Love Me More”
Formed in 2011, Apink is one of the most iconic girl groups to have graced the scene as a representative of K-pop’s second generation. With their signature bubblegum pop sound, they’ve created some of the catchiest hits to date, like “NoNoNo,” “Mr. Chu,” “Luv,” and the like. For their return to the scene on January 5, 2026, the (currently) five-piece girl group came out with their latest EP, RE : LOVE, that holds the lead track “Love Me More.” Here, the group return to their roots in bubblegum pop but with a modern twist.
GFRIEND – “Seasons of Memories”
Celebrating their 10th anniversary as a group, third-generation “Rough” hitmakers GFRIEND joined forces for a special reunion single titled “Seasons of Memories.” Maybe it was because of their disbandment in 2021, but the special track served as a point of nostalgia for fans who grew up with them along the way. With sweeping instrumentals and wistful lyricism, the track reflects on time, growth, and the unbreakable bond between the group and their fans.
EXO – “Crown”
After nearly three years of waiting, EXO-Ls have finally been treated to a highly anticipated comeback with EXO’s eighth studio album, REVERXE. Debuted on January 19, 2026, the nine-track album holds the lead track “Crown,” and the song’s corresponding music video came out on the same day. Here, the hit-making group take their authority over the scene, declaring their dominance over K-pop, even in an entirely new generation. Furthermore, while members Xiumin, Baekhyun, and Chen have been excluded from group activities due to contract disputes with SM Entertainment, it’s notable that Lay was able to join this comeback following his departure from the company.
G-DRAGON, TAEYANG, DAESUNG – “HOME SWEET HOME”
Released as a surprise single in November 2024, G-DRAGON, TAEYANG, and DAESUNG’s reunion piece “HOME SWEET HOME” is an upbeat EDM track that combines a high-energy sound with sentimental and emotionally-charged lyrics. While it’s yet to be confirmed if T.O.P will be formally joining the group’s incoming 10th year anniversary celebration, we can rest assured that the three have found a home, sweet home in their friendship and journey together.
BLACKPINK – “JUMP”
Prior to their DEADLINE World Tour as a group, BLACKPINK came out with their latest piece together since 2022, “JUMP.” As a high-energy EDM track, the song served as the perfect tour piece, having members of the audience in each location “JUMP” in tandem with them. Driven by punchy beats and commanding vocals, the track feels like a return to the unapologetic charisma of their early releases. Additionally, the piece samples “Meet Her at the Loveparade” by Da Hool, mixing in a hint of European rave music into this fun stadium anthem.
TWICE – “ME+YOU”
Bright and bursting with energy, third-generation girl group TWICE made a feel-good return with the special album Ten: The Story Moves On, as a celebratory piece for their 10th anniversary. With that, the track “ME+YOU” was the sole group single of the entire album, as it played a special role in reflecting on the group’s growth and their strong bond. Even in the song’s visualizer, ONCEs were treated to a nostalgia trip as they referenced their older music videos and inside jokes.
MONSTA X – “growing pains”
True to its title, “growing pains” by MONSTA X perfectly captures the bittersweet feelings that come with entering adulthood and growing apart from friends. In this heartfelt track, the group’s softer delivery and sentimental tone echo the coming-of-age themes that shaped their early sound, making “growing pains” feel like a full-circle moment that resonates deeply with fans who grew up alongside them.
GOT7 – “PYTHON”
Marking a powerful new chapter, GOT7’s Winter Heptagon stands as a symbolic reunion and reaffirmation of the group’s identity after years of solo ventures and military service. Written by the group’s very own BamBam, “PYTHON” stands as the lead track of the mini-album, representing the group’s resilience and authority. With its sleek production and confident delivery, the track brings back the sharp, performance-driven energy that defined GOT7’s peak.