K-pop powerhouse outlines 2026 plans for Babymonster and Treasure as it pushes to expand artist roster
YG Entertainment has announced plans to debut a new K-pop boy group in fall 2026, marking their first male idol group launch since Treasure’s debut six years ago.
The company revealed the exciting news on its official blog, stating they are “preparing a new boy group, targeting fall 2026.” This announcement has generated significant buzz among K-pop fans worldwide.
Yang Hyun-suk, YG Entertainment founder and executive producer, initially hinted at this project last year, mentioning the agency’s evaluation of male trainees for a potential debut.
“We have been continuing to explore and analyze these trainees,” Yang stated previously. “I hope to launch a new team next year.”
Since 2025, Yang has implemented internal reforms within YG Entertainment, focusing on streamlining album production timelines and enhancing the development of new intellectual property. This strategic shift aims to bolster the company’s competitive edge in the ever-evolving K-pop industry.
“We will continue refining the results of our preparations and deliver exciting news throughout the year,” the company stated, promising more updates soon.
YG Entertainment also shared upcoming plans for its current popular artists, including the boy group Treasure and the rising girl group Babymonster.
Babymonster is slated to release a new EP in May, followed by their second full-length album in the fall. Yang Hyun-suk introduced the EP’s main track, “Choom,” explaining that the Korean word for dance served as the inspiration for the song’s concept.
“The lettering for the Korean word ‘choom’ looks very cool,” he said. “It has an Asian aesthetic that resembles someone spreading their arms and dancing.”
Furthermore, Babymonster will embark on their second world tour, commencing in June, with concerts planned across South America, Europe, and Oceania. This tour will further solidify their global presence and connect them with fans worldwide.
Treasure, on the other hand, will make a comeback with an EP in June, which Yang Hyun-suk described as the beginning of the group’s “second chapter.” This signals a potential shift in their musical direction and a new era for the group.
“The members suddenly came to me and said they wanted to try hip-hop, which surprised me,” Yang revealed. “When you hear this album, you’ll realize that Treasure can do this kind of music as well. You can expect a stylish, distinctly YG sound they’ve never shown before.” This bold move promises a fresh and exciting sound for Treasure’s fans.
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