The K-pop industry continuously evolves, with fresh groups debuting and existing ones disbanding. As 2023 unfolds, numerous cherished K-pop bands have parted ways for different reasons. Here is a review of the K-pop groups that disbanded during the first half of 2023.
Momoland
Disbandment Date: February 14, 2023
MOMOLAND, a girl group formed through the idol competition show Finding Momoland, debuted in 2016. Despite lineup changes and departures, the group continued to release music until deciding not to renew their contracts with MLD Entertainment.
Brave Girls
Disbandment Date: February 16, 2023
Brave Girls, disbanded when members decided against renewing their contracts with Brave Entertainment. The quartet were also known as the "miracle group" because of their sudden rise to fame. To mark the end of their journey together, Brave Girls released the single "Goodbye."
Loona Odd Eye Circle
Disbandment Date: January 13, 2023
The disbandment of Odd Eye Circle, LOONA's second sub-unit, was the result of a legal battle against their label Blockberry Creative. Members JinSoul, Choerry, and Kim Lip terminated their contracts and left LOONA, disbanding the sub-unit.
D1CE
Disbandment Date: January 20, 2023
D1CE, a boy group consisting of contestants from various idol competition shows, disbanded after their exclusive contracts with D1CE Entertainment expired. Their disbandment came after several members enlisted in the military.
D.COY
Disbandment Date: February 13, 2023
D.COY, a boy group that debuted in 2020, disbanded after the members terminated their contracts with Rollinghall. The group also has a sub-unit, Lure, which also subsequently disbanded as well.
Read also: Viviz SinB, Fellow '98 Liners Accused of Exploiting Moonbin's Death, Faced Criticisms While Mourning
JinJin & Rocky
Disbandment Date: February 28, 2023
ASTRO's sub-unit JinJin & Rocky disbanded after Rocky decided not to renew his contract with Fantagio Entertainment. His departure led to the end of the duo.
AWEEK
Disbandment Date: January 1, 2023
Originally a six-member boy group, AWEEK disbanded after two years of inactivity. Members Di1e and Logan took to Instagram to announce the disbandment to fans.
SNUPER
Disbandment date: May 3, 2023
After seven years together, Snuper disbanded when all six members chose not to renew their contracts with WIDMAY Entertainment. Their departure marked the end of their journey as a group.
The disbandment of these groups signifies changes within the K-pop industry. However, the artists may continue to contribute to the entertainment world in various capacities. Fans can anticipate new endeavors from their favorite idols, whether they pursue solo careers, acting, or other opportunities.
As we progress through 2023, more changes in the K-pop landscape are inevitable, with debuts and potential disbandments on the horizon. Despite these shifts, the unwavering support of K-pop fans worldwide remains constant.
While it is difficult to bid farewell to beloved K-pop groups, their music and memories endure. We wish the best for the members of these disbanded groups in their future pursuits and eagerly await further developments in the dynamic K-pop scene.
