This Week in K-pop: Our Favourite Summer Comebacks, And More
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Welcome back to another round-up of the biggest K-pop news. If you’ve been busy, not to fret, because we’ll bring you right up to speed with what netizens are buzzing about. From BTS’ full group reunion to thrilling summer comebacks and K-pop’s latest co-ed group, here’s everything you need to know about what went down in the K-pop world this week.
Jeon Somi gears up for an ‘Extra’ summer bop
The latest K-pop idol to join the summer hype train is none other than solo pop princess Jeon Somi! Known for her catchy earworms and fun choreography, the singer unveiled the music video teaser for her upcoming digital single, ‘Extra’, making fans even more eager for her return. The track is slated to drop on 7 July, and it marks her first release in 11 months since ‘Ice Cream’.
TXT enters a new era with latest studio album
On 29 June, MOAs (TXT’s fandom) were treated to a visual feast when the popular boy group released a cinematic concept trailer for their upcoming fourth studio album, The tale of the star: Together. With its emotionally-charged visuals and storyline, the trailer signals a new chapter in the group’s ongoing fictional universe that explores themes of youth, innocence, and friendship amidst temptation and disconnection. The full-length album will be released on 21 July.
Aespa gets down to some ‘Dirty Work’
In 2024, Aespa dominated 2024 with viral hits such as ‘Whiplash’, ‘Armageddon’, and ‘Supernova’ sweeping the charts and awards. This summer, the leading K-pop girl group is back—and getting all sweaty, dirty, and muddy. Featuring laid-back vocals and a gritty synth bass, ‘Dirty Work’ is a cool dance track that reflects the quartet’s signature chic and edgy style. The single album also features an English version of the song with American rapper Flo Milli.
YG Entertainment reveals details on Blackpink’s new single
With Blackpink’s world tour just around the corner, Blinks might be wondering when the group will be releasing new music. On 23 June, YG Entertainment announced that Blackpink will unveil their first song in almost three years at their South Korean concert in Goyang, which will take place on 5 and 6 July.
“There were many discussions about how to announce the new song, and we decided to premiere it at the Goyang concert, which marks the starting point of the ‘Deadline’ world tour and a moment to reunite with our fans. We will officially share more details about the song release date soon,” a representative from the label shared. Let the countdown begin!
Former NCT member Taeil pleads guilty to sexual assault charges
On 18 June, former NCT member and singer Taeil pleaded guilty to his quasi-rape charges during his first trial. According to South Korean law, a quasi-rape refers to cases of rape and harassment that use the condition of unconsciousness or the inability to resist rather than violence or intimidation. Moon Taeil, 31, admitted to quasi-rape charges in which he sexually assaulted a Chinese woman with two of his friends.
Based on official statements, the victim became heavily intoxicated after drinking with the group. Taeil escorted her out of the bar and put her in a taxi with one of the co-defendants. Then, he and another friend followed them back in a separate vehicle. The assault was said to have taken place at the victim’s residence.
The ex-NCT vocalist is seeking leniency from the prosecution, stating, “Taeil submitted a statement of self-surrender to the police. He also saw through the difficult process of reaching an agreement with the victim…[who] did not want further punishment levied.” The prosecution is seeking a seven-year sentence for the disgraced K-pop idol.
J-hope turns up the heat in ‘Killin’ It Girl’ MV
Following his singles ‘Sweet Dreams’ and ‘Mona Lisa’, J-hope returns to crank up the heat with another summer banger, teaming up with Memphis rapper GloRilla. Titled ‘Killin’ It Girl’, the English hip-hop track sees the BTS member channelling his darker, sensual side as he dances through the streets of Bangkok in his signature groove and charm.
BTS to have full group reunion this month
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This week has been an exciting and significant week for ARMYs worldwide, as it marked the official discharge of four BTS members from the military after 18 months of service. On 10 June, RM and V were discharged, followed by fellow bandmates Jimin and Jungkook a day later. The final member, Suga, is expected to complete his military service on 21 June.
The timing is made all the more special as June is BTS’s anniversary month, and the iconic septet will be turning 12 on 13 June. Members Jin and J-hope have already kicked off the month-long celebrations with the annual BTS Festa through various offline events and a fan concert.
Seventeen show off their ‘Bad Influence’
On 11 June, Seventeen unveiled the music video for their latest single, ‘Bad Influence’, an English song produced by Pharrell Williams. The hip-hop track was first revealed at Louis Vuitton’s Fall/Winter 2025 runway show in Paris and later included in Seventeen’s latest album, Happy Burstday.
ITZY fight a swarm of killer birds in ‘Girls Will Be Girls’ MV
Popular girl group ITZY has made their highly anticipated return with their EP Girls Will Be Girls, along with a cinematic music video for the title track of the same name. The powerful anthem features dynamic drum and bass, and continues the quintet’s long-standing theme of friendship and sisterhood—stream the mini album below!
Twice’s Chaeyoung confirms upcoming solo debut
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Another Twice member is about to go solo! On 10 June, it was confirmed that Chaeyoung will be debuting as a solo artist in the second half of 2025 with an album. While the exact release date has not been announced yet, Chaeyoung’s solo is expected to drop sometime in the fall, following Twice’s comeback in July and upcoming world tour.
The Black Label’s co-ed group is turning heads
Being a part of a co-ed group is enough to cause a buzz in the K-pop world, but Allday Project is also making waves for its stellar member lineup. Consisting of five members (two men and three women), Allday Project is described as a “special collaboration of five unparalleled artists.”
Here are more details about the members: Bailey Sok, an acclaimed choreographer and dancer who has choreographed for Red Velvet, Taemin, and Aespa; Woochan, a former member of Hybe’s pre-debut group Trainee A; Youngseo, who pulled out of the final lineup of ILLIT; Tarzzan, a striking model; and finally, Annie, whose great-grandfather is the founder of the Samsung Group. Their debut single ‘Famous’ is slated to be released on 23 June.
Enhypen brings back male yearning with ‘Bad Desire (With or Without You)’
On 5 June, Enhypen made their much-awaited return with their newest mini album Desire: Unleash, and a jaw-dropping music video for its title track ‘Bad Desire (With or Without You)’. The sleek dance-pop track showcases the boy group’s distinct vocal colour and urban charms with trendy choreography—listen to the rest of the album below.
Former RIIZE member Seunghan to make his solo debut in July
Good news for Seunghan fans, you won’t have to wait long to see him back on-screen! On 22 June, Seunghan announced that he will change his stage name to Xng Han, with the ‘X’ symbolising his infinite potential and the possibilities of diverse future crossovers.
He is expected to debut in late July under the artist brand Xnghan & Xoul, and it will be a collaboration with two professional dancers to showcase his exceptional performance skills.
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Seunghan originally debuted in September 2023 as a member of RIIZE. However, he halted activities just two months later after his pre-debut images were leaked and was on hiatus for 10 months. On 11 October 2024, SM Entertainment announced his return to RIIZE, but reversed the decision two days later after severe pushback from the fandom, confirming his permanent departure from the group.
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