With the K-Pop world so competitive, many groups break up or stop promoting not because of talent, but due to other problems. In 2012, 40 new K-Pop groups started out. Today, only five are still together.
1. B.A.P
B.A.P began on January 26, 2012, with “Warrior.” The group had many problems with TS Entertainment. All members left the label after these issues. Many reports said B.A.P disbanded, but the members always hoped for a reunion. That reunion happened! Last year, Bang Yongguk, Jung Daehyun, Yoo Youngjae, and Moon Jungup came back together for special promotions. They used their surnames for the group since they could not use B.A.P.
2. BTOB
BTOB started on March 21, 2012, with the song “Insane.” Ilhoon left the group in 2020. After military service, BTOB kept going and stayed active. Eunkwang, Minhyuk, Hyunsik, and Peniel started BtoB Company. Changsub and Sungjae joined other companies. Most of the time, BTOB promotes as four members. In March 2025, they released a new album called BToday.
3. EXID
EXID debuted in February 2012 with “Whoz The Girl.” The group almost disbanded but made a big comeback. They released music together until their break in 2020. They returned with an independent album in September 2022 for their tenth anniversary. The members now focus on solo work but often appear together. Their latest appearance was on KBS Immortal Songs 2.
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4. EXO
EXO debuted on April 8, 2012, with “Mama.” The group is active both together and with solo projects. EXO released their tenth anniversary album Exist in July 2023. D.O. shared fans could expect a group comeback, but not until Sehun finishes his military service in 2026.
5. VIXX
VIXX formed through the show MyDol and debuted on May 24, 2012, with “Super Hero.” Hongbin left the group in 2020. Ravi also departed in 2023 because of a military exemption issue. Leo, Hyuk, and Ken promote as a trio now. N pursues acting.
