EXO, BTS, and Wanna One led the golden age of 3rd generation K-pop boy groups in the mid-2010s. Anyone who loved K-pop back then would agree on their popularity. Surprisingly, in 2026, they've all announced comeback news. With 4th and 5th generation idols emerging, the comeback of 3rd generation idols is most welcome. Here are the 3rd generation idols returning to their fans after a long time.

EXO, who proved the influence of the group holding the 'K-pop national anthem' by appearing at the 2025 MMA, is making waves! Even now, three weeks after its release, the view count is soaring, raising anticipation for their comeback. EXO is set to release their 8th full-length album <REVERXE> on January 19th, and have already announced teaser images, the title track 'CROWN', and a pop-up store event to commemorate the album release. Notably, the title track 'CROWN' is known to be an SMP (music handled by SM Entertainment artists, characterized by socially critical lyrics and powerful performances) that K-pop mania loves, exciting fans' hearts💕 Let's wait together to see what essence of K-pop EXO will show us again after their long hiatus!

BTS's comeback announcement after 3 years and 9 months has also sent global fans into a frenzy. This marks their first full group album release after all members have completed their military service. Alongside the release of their 5th full-length album, they've also announced a massive world tour, igniting fans' passion❤️‍🔥 BTS has confirmed their comeback date early and is expected to follow up with extensive promotions. We're excited to see what message they'll convey through an album that captures the members' thoughts and BTS's identity. We'll be following the BTS comeback news faster than anyone else on NOL World, so stay tuned!

There's another group whose comeback nobody expected. Wanna One, who ended their activities in 2019, has released an official video hinting at a comeback. A representative from their agency announced plans to launch a Wanna One reality entertainment show targeting the first half of 2026, officially confirming their full group reunion. This moment truly marks the return of 'Exo-Bang-Won' from back in the day. We hope to see Wanna One's performances and new music, not just their variety show🙏

✔️ Apink Apink, who released their eleventh mini-album <RE : LOVE> on January 5th, are also representative K-pop artists of the 3rd generation. They've proven their enduring presence by actively promoting through music shows, their own content, and challenges since their comeback. ✔️ I.O.I I.O.I, celebrating their 10th debut anniversary, also had their comeback revealed through 'spoilers' from the members. Jeon Somi posted on social media, seemingly hinting at I.O.I's comeback, and Kim Sejeong performed an I.O.I medley at her solo fan meeting. Yoo Yeonjung mentioned on a radio show that 'the venue has been booked, and please look forward to it around the time of their debut in spring.' If there's a reason to look forward to the approaching spring, it's definitely I.O.I.