January 2026 is already wrapping up—and this week, idol groups dominated the scene without a single solo comeback in sight.
First, KIKI returned with their signature, unrivaled aesthetics that instantly grabbed fans' attention, while Young Posse unleashed a fierce, addictive sound. (G)I-DLE are back as a full group for the first time in eight months, AB6IX dropped a digital single promising they "won't change," and 8TURN showcased a more mature side that's hard to ignore.
'Growth-mode all-rounders' POW and WHIB—who directly took part in writing and composing their new records—also raised K-Pop listeners' expectations.
◆ KIKI paints 'freedom,' not 'error'… 'Delulu Pack' out on the 26th
Group KIKI released their second mini album 'Delulu Pack' on the 26th.
'Delulu Pack' starts from a New Year's idea: "Let's make quirky, out-of-the-box wishes." The album includes six tracks—title track '404 (New Era),' 'Delulu,' 'UNDERDOGS,' '멍냥,' 'Dizzy,' and 'To Me From Me' (Prod. TABLO). The title '404 (New Era)' reimagines a website error code as "freedom that exists without coordinates," layering the members' powerful rap over an upbeat rhythm.
True to KIKI's reputation for stunning visuals, the title track's music video, released alongside the album, instantly drew attention. Childhood footage of the members, sweeping natural landscapes, free-spirited choreography, and retro touches amplify KIKI's distinct 'Gen Z vibe.'
KIKI will now kick off full-fledged promotions with 'Delulu Pack.'
◆ Like getting jolted by electricity… Young Posse make a powerful return with 'VISA' on the 27th
Young Posse dropped their digital single 'VISA / Pilot3' at 6 p.m. on the 27th via major streaming platforms, signaling the start of full promotions.
The single features two tracks: the title 'VISA' and the B-side 'Pilot3.' The title—rooted in the rage genre—packs an electrifying, addictive sound, with lyrics drawn from the members' first-hand emotions as they toured across Asia, North America, and Europe.
The accompanying music video, directed by Kyowa Touch, boasts slick, stylish visuals. Collage techniques and rapid-fire cuts smash convention and supercharge Young Posse's signature gritty, hip energy.
'Pilot3' rides on a jazz-hip-hop sound and declares the group's ambition to become "pilots of music" who can fly anywhere. All members participated in the lyrics for added authenticity, while KOONTA's feature completes the musical synergy.
◆ (G)I-DLE return as a full group with 'Mono'… after eight months
(G)I-DLE are reuniting as five after eight months.
They dropped the digital single 'Mono' on the 27th, marking their comeback.
'Mono' channels a message of tuning out others' gazes and listening more closely to one's true self, filtered through (G)I-DLE's unmistakable musical voice. British rapper skaiwater, known for an addictive tone, features on the track—(G)I-DLE's first-ever collaboration with an outside artist on a group song.
The pre-release music video teaser already ranked high on China's QQ Music and on Korean music video charts, proving its buzz even before release.
(G)I-DLE will kick off their 4th world tour 'Syncopation' on February 21–22 at Seoul's KSPO Dome in Olympic Park.
◆ AB6IX drop digital single 'Every Minute, Every Second'… a promise to never change
AB6IX released their digital single 'Every Minute, Every Second' on the 27th.
The new song captures the precious time spent together like a gift, pairing warm melodies with heartfelt vocals. The repeated lyric "every minute, every second" conveys an unwavering promise and gratitude, shaping AB6IX's signature, sincere emotional arc that blends fluttering excitement with firm resolve.
AB6IX officially debuted in 2019 with 'BREATHE.' The group includes Lee Dae-hwi and Park Woo-jin—both former members of the project group Wanna One from the Mnet survival show Produce 101 Season 2—along with Kim Dong-hyun and Jeon Woong.
◆ 8TURN release new single 'BRUISE (Spark)' on the 28th
8TURN are stepping on the gas for their 2026 activities.
Today (the 28th) at 6 p.m., they release their new digital single 'BRUISE (Spark)' on major streaming platforms.
Marking their third debut anniversary, 'BRUISE (Spark)' puts 8TURN's deepened emotions and storytelling front and center. The title track captures the moment when the feeling of love spreads like fire and consumes you. Even in the ironic instant when scars and traces in your heart reveal love more clearly, youth chooses to dive back into the flames.
A hybrid rock sound driven by a searing guitar riff keeps the tension high to the end, spotlighting the urgent lyrics. The members' rough yet delicate vocals add dynamic range and lingering resonance.
Through this single, 8TURN aim to cement not only their musical growth but also the narrative direction of the group. With more restrained energy and added depth, this release serves both as a new starting point and a turning point for the stories 8TURN will tell.
8TURN will unveil the first stage of their new track on the 29th on Mnet's M COUNTDOWN.
◆ POW drop single 'COME TRUE'… delivering courage and comfort
'Growth-mode all-rounders' POW are back with a new record.
On the 28th, POW release their single album 'COME TRUE' across streaming platforms, officially kicking off their year.
The record sends a message of excitement and bravery for new beginnings—offering warmth and courage to anyone feeling lonely in the face of change and challenge.
The title track samples m-flo's 2001 classic 'Come Again,' with m-flo member and producer Taku Takahashi personally taking part to boost the track's polish.
◆ WHIB to release 'ROCK THE NATION' on the 29th… members credited as writers and composers
WHIB are unleashing their need for speed.
At 6 p.m. on the 29th, WHIB make their comeback with their first mini album 'ROCK THE NATION.'
The title track of the same name puts WHIB's intense, explosive synergy front and center. Over a weighty sound, they stack powerful vocal layers to detonate energy, with a fast-paced arrangement and surging emotions that heighten anticipation for their performance.
Beyond the title track, the album includes five songs total: 'WHO'S THE NEXT,' composed by Ha Seung and Kim Jun-min; 'DDANG,' with lyrics by Ha Seung; 'ELEVATE;' and 'NO SHINE,' written and composed by Lee Jeong, Kim Jun-min, and Ha Seung.