Kim Ji-won's Shooting Star
Kim Ji-won from Ten Asia's music team brings you the vibrant and refreshing taste of the K-pop industry like a 'shooting star.'
The clock for project groups is ticking once again. Members who had been pursuing their careers individually after disbandment are reuniting, sparking a wave of nostalgia in the K-pop market. However, whether this excitement will translate into tangible success remains uncertain.
Wanna One is set to reunite through Mnet's reality show 'Wanna One Go,' scheduled for release in April. On April 1st, the members sent handwritten messages to their fandom, Wannable, marking their first official communication in a long time. Although there are no plans for a new music release, the fact that they are coming together for the first time in about seven years is noteworthy.
The individual recognition gained through solo activities is also a positive factor. Notably, Park Ji-hoon, who is active as an actor, has recently garnered attention with the film 'The Man Living with the King,' raising expectations for a million-viewer turnout. Analysts suggest that the timing of the team's reunion aligns well with public interest.
I.O.I is set to make a comeback in May to celebrate their 10th debut anniversary. Due to prior commitments, Kang Mina and Zhou Jieqiong will be unable to participate, resulting in a nine-member lineup. Although there have been ongoing discussions about a reunion, it has never materialized until now, promising to quench the fans' long-standing thirst. For some members whose solo activities have not been particularly successful, team activities could serve as a new turning point.
Nostalgia is a driving force behind these reunion trends. Music, performances, and fan activities from a specific period often overlap with personal school days or growth phases, making them memorable. The reunion of a once-beloved team can evoke emotions and atmospheres from that era, naturally leading to consumer interest.
However, reunion news does not guarantee success. If appearances on variety shows or commemorative comebacks only generate short-term interest, they may not translate into strong music sales or widespread public impact. The key is expanding beyond fandom-driven buzz to achieve broader public appeal.
The notion that the disbandment of a project group is the end is no longer absolute. Industry insiders believe that these reunion movements could influence the actions of other groups. Groups like IZ*ONE and ZEROBASEONE, which have already disbanded or are nearing disbandment, are also seen as having open possibilities for reunions.
Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr