In a world where K-pop groups often face speculation about their future, Red Velvet, the third-generation K-pop girl group, has silenced rumors of disbandment by announcing a full comeback this November. This significant move comes six years after their last full-length album, "Perfect Velvet," was released in 2017.
According to reports from the South Korean media outlet, Daily Sports, SM Entertainment, the group's agency, confirmed that Red Velvet is slated to release its third full-length album in November. This follows their EP, "The ReVe Festival 2022 - Birthday," which graced the music scene in November of the previous year.
The announcement is particularly noteworthy given the recent swirl of rumors suggesting a potential disbandment of the group. Star News Korea had reported that Irene, the leader of Red Velvet, was considering not renewing her exclusive contract with SM Entertainment. This speculation was fueled by the group's inactivity since June, following the conclusion of their "R to V" world tour in London.
As Red Velvet approaches its 10th anniversary, the members are at the juncture of renewing their contracts. Seulgi has already confirmed her contract renewal, while official announcements from the other members remain anticipated. It's worth noting that the contract renewal dates for each member differ, reportedly based on their respective joining dates with the company.
The group's dedicated fanbase, affectionately known as ReVeluvs, has naturally been anxious about the future of Red Velvet, especially in light of the rumors surrounding Irene's potential departure.
However, during their 9th-anniversary celebration, the members of Red Velvet, including Irene, Yeri, Joy, Seulgi, and Wendy, confirmed their group's impending comeback. They held a live broadcast on TikTok, hinting at the release but stopping short of divulging specific details. Yeri, the youngest member, shared, "We are preparing our third full-length album. After this live, we have a meeting for our comeback. Our goal is to bring you the album [by] the second half of the year. Please wait for us, you will love it."
Earlier in the year, Red Velvet successfully executed its fourth solo concert, "R to V," spanning from April to June, with performances across Asia and Europe. They also showcased their talent at the Primavera Sound 2023 music festival in Barcelona and Madrid, Spain, in June.
Debuting under SM Entertainment in August 2014 with the single "Happiness," Red Velvet initially started as a quartet, consisting of Irene, Seulgi, Wendy, and Joy. Yeri joined the ensemble in March 2015, completing the quintet. Over the years, they have produced chart-topping hits like "Red Flavor," "Bad Boy," "Dumb Dumb," and "Peek-A-Boo," solidifying their position in the K-pop pantheon.
