5 K-pop reunions that prove 2nd generation groups are forever: Kara surprised fans with comeback rumours, 2PM released a mini-album, and 2NE1’s Coachella gig

Jun 27 , 2022

Second generation K-pop acts like 2NE1 are teasing fans over reunions. Photo: @2ne1offficial/Instagram

BigBang, Girls’ Generation and Infinite were part of K-pop’s second generation in its golden age from 2005 to 2012 – the genre is now going into the fifth wave

In recent years, groups like After School and Kara have joined forces once again; Park Bom, Minzy, CL and Dara of 2NE1 even performed at Coachella

Trying to compare K-pop 15 years ago to K-pop as we know it now might just give us a little whiplash. In just a decade and a half, the genre has evolved by leaps and bounds: while we still get some of the questionable styling choices and endearingly nonsensical lyrics today, K-pop in the present has been buffed and manicured to near-perfection.

We are now entering the fifth generation of K-pop, a promising new era defined by big-budget productions, mind-blowing CGI effects and an upgraded sound targeted at international listeners. But even with these novelties on the horizon, long-time fans can’t help but feel nostalgic for the second generation of K-pop.

A set of photo cards featuring Girls’ Generation. Photo: Handout

Dubbed the genre’s golden age, the artists who debuted and made a name for themselves from 2005 to 2012 changed the industry as the world knew it. And while those days are far behind us, we continue to feel their influence. It’s in the prevalence of photo cards, which trace their beginnings to TVXQ and Girls’ Generation’s albums. It’s in the timelessness of concepts that continue to get rinsed, repeated and refreshed. It’s in the way today’s idols continue to look up to the likes of 2NE1, Shinee and Infinite.

Recently, we’ve had the luxury of seeing iconic acts from the second generation of idols come together, reconnect with their fans and charm the world once again. Here are five nostalgia-inducing reunions that prove K-pop’s golden age is forever ...

After School

In 2021, YouTube variety show MMTG ignited a K-pop renaissance. With K-pop superfan and host Jaejae at the helm, the programme brought together second-generation idols for a special throwback concert. After School, formerly of Pledis Entertainment, was one of the groups featured.

Delivering nostalgia in spades, the group reunited to perform its hits Bang! and Diva. While some of the former members were notably absent, members Kahi and Bekah – who had both relocated outside Korea – flew back home to prepare for the special performance. Even Jungah, who was pregnant at the time the show was filmed, took part to make the tear-jerking reunion a reality.