First-generation idols paved the way for second-generation to be known in Korea, but second-generation K-pop idols introduced the genre in international countries as well as opened the doors for the current generation of idols to have mainstream popularity.
Though the K-pop industry already transitioned from second-gen to third-gen and now launching fourth-generation idols, several K-pop groups are still active or didn't officially disband yet, that fans are still waiting to come back.
Here are the male K-pop groups with the longest hiatus since their last comeback, and let's see if they are to disband or comeback after many years.
*Note: The list only includes groups who didn't have a comeback with full members; thus, excluding solo/sub-unit release, and groups who already disbanded.
Japan release are not counted as well.
1. Supernova (8 years)
The six-membered group (hereinafter five-membered group) debuted in 2006 under MNET media. Their most recent comeback was in 2012, after announcing an official comeback through the title track, "She's Gone." Later on, they became active in Japan with no release in Korea. In 2019, member Sungmo left the group.
2. ZE:A (6 years and two months)
Also known as Child Empire, ZE:A comprises of Kevin, Hwang Kwanghee, Im Siwan, Lee Hoo, Kim Tae Heon, Jung Heechul, Ha Minwoo, Kim Dongjun and Park Hyungsik, debuted in 2010. However, after their last release in 2014 with "Breath," the group has yet to come back since then.
According to the members, they are not disbanding and will eventually gather again together if their individual schedule will permit them.
3. JYJ (6 years and one month)
Formed in 2010, former TVXQ members Junsu, Yuchun, and Jaejoong with their first EP, "The..." Their breakthrough happened from 2012 to 2014. However, after releasing "Back seat," they hadn't released any songs together and focused on their solo careers. Yuchun reportedly retired in 2019, and Junsu, as well as Jaejoong, are currently active as solo singers.
There's no definite announcement of disbandment.
4. MBLAQ (5 years and two months)
MBLAQ's last comeback happened in 2015, through "Mirror." Mir confirmed that they didn't officially disband yet, but he also said that he thinks the group will no longer have a future. Lee Joon, Thunder and G.O already left the group.
5. 2PM (3 years and nine months)
The group debuted in 2008 under JYP Entertainment comprising of members: Jun.K, Nickhun, Taecyeon, Wooyoung, Junho, Chansung, and former member Jaebeom. Their last release was with "Promise (I'll be)" in 2016 before they started their military enlistment in 2018.
6. BIG BANG (3 years and seven months)
"Last Dance," is the most recent comeback of BIGBANG since 2016. After completing their military enlistments, BIGBANG is reported to make their comeback as a four-membered group including T.O.P, Taeyang, G-Dragon, and Daesung in Coachella 2020.
However, their return became indefinite after the surge of the pandemic.
7. CNBLUE (3 years and four months)
The pop-rock band consisting Yonghwa, Jungshin, Minhyuk, and former member Jonghyun debuted in 2009. However, due to their military enlistment, the group went on hiatus after releasing "Between Us" in 2017.
In 2019, Jonghyun left the group due to multiple controversies involving Burning Sun scandal and backlash over misappropriate remarks to a YouTuber.
8. B1A4 (2 years and nine months)
B1A4 debuted in 2011 under WM Entertainment. They have reached popularity from 2012 to 2018 in various countries, particularly in Japan and the US. However, Jinyoung and Baro left WME in 2018 and announced that they wouldn't be participating in the group's promotion for an unknown period.
9. BLOCK B (2 years and six months)
BLOCK B debuted in 2011 under Stardom Entertainment. However, despite increasing popularity, they became involved with a lawsuit against the agency for alleged mistreatment. In 2013, the ex-CEO of the agency allegedly committed suicide amidst the case review.
In 2013, BLOCK B came back with new agency Seven Seasons and regained their fame until 2018. However, they have to enlist in the military, leading to their temporary hiatus.
10. INFINITE (2 years and six months)
INFINITE debuted with seven members including Sungkyu, Dongwoo, Woohyun, Sungyeol, L, Sungjong and former member Hoya. Their most recent comeback took place in 2018 with "Tell Me" release. L is not under Woollim Entertainment after contract expiration in 2018, but he affirmed fans that he will continue to promote with the group through a handwritten letter.
