A major K-pop showdown is brewing as industry titans Blackpink and rising stars Ive prepare for highly anticipated comebacks late this month.
With just four days separating their respective releases, K-pop fans are eagerly awaiting a chart battle between one of the world’s most recognized groups and a leading fourth-generation girl group, both known for their consistent hit-making prowess. Will Blackpink maintain their Queen status or will IVE dethrone them?
On February 27th, Blackpink will release their third EP, “Deadline,” marking their first group album since the release of their second full-length album “Born Pink” in September 2022. “Born Pink” saw Blackpink become the first K-pop girl group to sell over 2 million copies within a mere two days.
Blackpink’s pre-release single “Jump,” from July 2025, shattered records upon its release, securing the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Global 200 and Global Excl. US charts and No. 28 on the Hot 100. On Spotify, “Jump” amassed over 7 million streams on its debut day, making it the best debut for any K-pop single in 2025.
Despite the hiatus between album releases, the four members have maintained their individual momentum through successful solo albums, performances, acting roles, and fashion ventures. The group recently concluded their “Deadline” world tour in Hong Kong on January 26th.
Just days before Blackpink’s return, Ive is set to release their sophomore full-length album, “Revive+,” on February 23rd. This release comes approximately six months after their mini-album “Ive Secret.”
Since their debut in 2021, Ive has unleashed a string of breakthrough hits, starting with “Eleven,” followed by “Love Dive,” and “After Like,” achieving an impressive seven consecutive million-selling albums. In 2025, the group earned 20 music show trophies with “Rebel Heart,” “Attitude,” and “XOXZ.”
Ahead of their comeback, Ive released the pre-release single “Bang Bang” on Monday. This bold, EDM-infused track represents a departure from the group’s previous sound. The teaser released on February 2nd on TikTok has generated considerable buzz among fans, intrigued by Ive’s evolving musical identity and image. Will “Bang Bang” propel IVE to new heights?
The upcoming album is also expected to include solo tracks that individual Ive members initially performed in concert in 2025. The group showcased unreleased solo tracks, including “Eight” by Jang Wonyoung, “In Your Heart” by Rei, “Unreal” by Liz, “Odd” by Gaeul, “Super Icy” by Leeseo, and “Force” by An Yujin, but none have been officially released on streaming platforms until now.
Following the release of their new album, Ive is scheduled to continue their second world tour, “Show What I Am.” Kicking off in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on April 4th, the tour is expected to extend to Osaka, Japan, Manila, Singapore, and Macao. Fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the chance to witness Ive’s captivating performances.
Adding to the crowded comeback lineup, rookie girl group Hearts2Hearts is set to return in late February with their new digital single “Rude!” on February 20th. This release marks their first new music in four months, since their first EP, “Focus.”
