I.O.I reunion is scheduled for spring 2026, marking the group’s tenth debut anniversary and renewing fan anticipation. The plan gained confirmation after member Yu Yeonjung discussed preparations during a local radio appearance on Monday.
Yu stated that members have already begun coordinating schedules and securing venues for anniversary activities. Moreover, she indicated that the group views the milestone seriously due to its lasting cultural importance.
The eleven-member act debuted in May 2016 through the televised audition program Produce 101. Consequently, the project group quickly gained national popularity despite operating under a limited contract.
Although I.O.I officially disbanded in January 2017, the group maintained strong public recognition. Furthermore, its short career produced multiple chart-topping singles and numerous rookie awards.
Songs such as Very Very Very and Downpour helped define the late-2010s K-pop sound. Additionally, members transitioned successfully into solo music, acting, and variety careers after disbandment.
Artists including Jeon Somi, Kim Sejeong, Chungha, and Jung Chaeyeon achieved individual commercial success. Meanwhile, others focused on acting, overseas promotions, or television hosting roles.
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Yu said the group originally planned the I.O.I reunion as a surprise announcement. However, public comments by Somi earlier this year unintentionally revealed ongoing anniversary discussions.
Yu added that organizers have already reserved a performance venue, signaling logistical progress. Nevertheless, she declined to disclose dates, locations, or formats during the broadcast.
The reunion is expected to occur during spring, reflecting the group’s original debut season. Therefore, members aim to align performances with nostalgic themes and fan expectations.
Kim Sejeong previously acknowledged reunion discussions during a December interview following her television drama. Similarly, she emphasized respect for fans who have awaited a decade-long celebration.
Somi also confirmed ongoing coordination during an August interview ahead of her solo comeback. Consequently, industry observers believe preparations have advanced beyond preliminary discussions.
Ten of the original eleven members are reportedly participating in planning stages. However, Kang Mina may miss the event due to conflicting acting commitments.
Entertainment analysts say anniversary reunions often generate strong merchandise and concert demand. Moreover, nostalgia-driven projects frequently perform well across digital and live platforms.
I.O.I reunion also reflects a broader trend of second-generation project groups reuniting for milestone anniversaries. Therefore, agencies increasingly view reunions as sustainable brand extensions.
K-pop historians note I.O.I’s role in shaping survival-program idol formats. Additionally, the group influenced subsequent audition-based acts and fandom engagement strategies.
As plans progress, agencies are expected to announce official schedules later this year. Meanwhile, fans continue monitoring statements from members for further confirmation.
Ultimately, I.O.I reunion underscores the group’s enduring legacy within the competitive K-pop industry. Consequently, spring 2026 may become one of the year’s most anticipated music events.
