Despite the monsoon-soaked third week of July, a wave of high-profile comebacks is set to shake K-Pop — from IDENTITY’s massive stage to Super Junior-83z’s new unit drop, YOUNG POSSE’s 1,000th-day mixtape, and summer takeovers by Sunmi and BBGIRLS.
First up, 24-member group IDENTITY returns with a large-scale performance, while same-age Super Junior members Leeteuk and Heechul deliver fresh chemistry as the unit Super Junior-83z. Marking their 1,000th day since debut, YOUNG POSSE is unveiling their first mixtape.
Sunmi and BBGIRLS are also making a cool comeback with albums that show off their unique charms, promising to cut through the summer heat.
◆ IDENTITY, back in K-pop with a 20-member performance
IDENTITY announced their comeback on the 13th with the new album 'itsnotover'. Debuting in August last year, IDENTITY is a large-scale group with 24 members; past promotions featured seven and 15 members, respectively.
This third mini album blends street culture with pop appeal and packs seven tracks, including the title song 'Kids Return'.
'Kids Return' is a street hip-hop track that rallies the boys to band together and take on new challenges. Their large-scale stage performance has already grabbed attention.
◆ Super Junior-83z return with 'Promise'
Super Junior members Leeteuk and Heechul also made their unit comeback as Super Junior-83z on the 13th, dropping the title track 'Promise'.
The track features a powerful band sound inspired by late-1990s and early-2000s vibes. Upon release, it shot straight to the top of global charts. Starting with MBC Show! Music Core on the 18th, they will launch a full slate of promotions.
◆ YOUNG POSSE drop a '1,000th day since debut' mixtape
To celebrate 1,000 days since debut, YOUNG POSSE released their first mixtape 'young tape' at 6 p.m. the same day.
Filled with self-produced tracks by the members, the album bottles the candid energy and emotions of teens and early twenty-somethings. In particular, the title track 'Mr. 2026' reinterprets a song by KARA, delivering a distinctive twist.
◆ Sunmi channels peak summer with 'Forever July'
On the 15th at 6 p.m., Sunmi meets listeners with her new single 'Forever July' across major music platforms.
Sunmi took part in both writing and composing, revealing another side of summer. Built on a UK garage sound distinct from typical seasonal tracks, the song hooks you with an addictive chorus.
◆ BBGIRLS set to own summer with 'BODY WAVE'
BBGIRLS will release their new single 'BODY WAVE' at 6 p.m. on the 16th.
Emphasizing breezy tropical synths and a moombahton rhythm, the track amplifies BBGIRLS’ signature summer vibe.
Having cemented their status with past hits as recognized 'Summer Queens', fans are eager to see what fresh charms they bring this time.