K-pop group Kep1er is almost at the end of their two-year contract, but the agency has shared a hopeful update for fans who were speculating about the group’s future disbandment.
Rookie group Kep1er was formed from Mnet‘s popular reality show Girls Planet 999. The show started with 99 contestants, nine of whom emerged as winners, including Kim Chae-Hyun, Huening Bahiyyih, Choi Yujin, Kim Dayeon, Seo Youngeun, Kang Ye Seo, Hikaru Ezaki, Mashiro Sakamoto, and Shen Xiaoting.
Generally, groups that debut from Mnet’s shows sign a limited contract period. Kep1er’s initial contract ends in mid-2024. However, reports suggest that the group may not disband if the agencies can extend the contract by talking to the members.
Is Kep1er disbanding? WAKEONE addresses concern announcing comeback plan
Kep1er’s agency, WakeOne, has addressed the disbandment rumors in a new statement revealing the K-pop group’s comeback plan. The agency noted: “We are currently [still] in discussions with each member and their respective agencies regarding the extension of Kep1er’s activities,” adding, “Currently, Kep1er is preparing for a new album. We ask for your support so they can return with good music.”
Previously, a Korean media report claimed Kep1er could disband in July 2024 if the agency failed to extend the members’ contracts. The report further stated that Kep1er plans to make its final comeback and hold a concert to bid goodbye to the fans who have supported it since its debut in 2022.
In between talks of Kep1er making their next comeback, the group has confirmed the schedule of their first full-length Japanese album’s release date. The group will release the Japanese album Kep1going on May 8, 2024.
Kep1er made their last Korean comeback with the EP Magic Hour on September 25, 2023. The five-track mini album sold over 80,508 copies within days of release. Magic Hour ranked third on South Korea’s Circle Album Chart and seventh on Japan’s Oricon Album Chart.
