YG Entertainment has announced a large-scale artist activity plan that will take responsibility for the second half of 2025, marking the beginning of a full-fledged rebound. With signs of improved performance, a detailed plan was unveiled, stimulating the expectations of K-pop fans worldwide, from the full comeback of BLACKPINK to the launch of new groups.
Earlier, YG noted through a public announcement on the 9th that it recorded a consolidated operating profit of 9.525 billion won in the first quarter of 2025, successfully turning to a profit compared to the same period last year. During the same period, sales were 100.2 billion won, an increase of 14.7% compared to the previous year. Considering that it posted an operating loss of 7 billion won in the first quarter of last year, this performance is evaluated as an 'earnings surprise' that exceeds industry expectations.
Analysts say that this rebound is attributed to the global growth of new artists such as BABYMONSTER and TREASURE, along with the expansion of world tours and merchandise businesses. In particular, TREASURE showed strong sales with the album released last March, and BABYMONSTER is expanding its global fandom through the sustained popularity of their first full album released last November.
Continuing this momentum, YG has announced aggressive artist activities for the second half of the year. Yang Hyun-suk, the chief producer, attracted attention by personally introducing the 'master plan' that includes comeback schedules for artists like BLACKPINK, BABYMONSTER, and TREASURE, along with plans for launching new groups in a recently released interview video.
The most noticeable news is undoubtedly the full comeback of BLACKPINK. They will hold the 'BLACKPINK 2025 WORLD TOUR IN GOYANG' at Goyang Sports Complex on July 5 and 6, marking their return as a full group, and they have officially confirmed the release of new songs.
BLACKPINK's new song is the first since the release of their full album 'BORN PINK' in September 2022, about 2 years and 8 months ago. Expectations are high for what new history this group will create now that each member has showcased their individuality through successful solo activities.
BABYMONSTER continues its rapid comeback pace even during its debut world tour. Starting with the pre-release single 'HOT SAUCE' on July 1, they are expected to release a second single in September and a mini album on October 1. Despite being a rookie in their second year since debut, they are gaining global recognition, drawing attention from the industry.
TREASURE will also make a comeback with a mini album on September 1 and will start a new world tour in October. Yang noted, "In the future, TREASURE will release more than 2 albums each year and I will do my best to support them so they can continue to meet with fans."
Additionally, Yang drew attention by revealing plans for launching a new group under YG. He emphasized that he has made significant changes and advancements to YG's internal system over the past year and that accelerating the debut of new talents to increase intellectual property (IP) is a top priority.
Yang conveyed, "Currently, YG is preparing for the debut of 2 boy groups and 2 girl groups, and I would really like to launch a boy group next year."
It is rumored that the girl group has already confirmed the number of members at 4. In addition, starting from the 28th, practice videos of the 4 members will be released sequentially. This provides a glimpse into YG's strong confidence in the trainees' abilities. Yang expressed, "I hope you evaluate their skills as you see them as they are, hear them as they are, and feel them as they are."
However, given that BABYMONSTER officially debuted last year, it seems the debut of the new girl group will not be soon. Yang has stated that he wants to focus more on BABYMONSTER's growth until the end of next year, suggesting that the official debut date for YG's new girl group may be after that.
As Yang expressed his determination to showcase the upgraded YG system starting in the second half of this year, all preparations have been completed. Attention is now focused on what global achievements YG, having successfully rebounded with an earnings surprise, will continue to achieve through its artist lineup in the second half of the year.
[Photo] YG Entertainment
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