2021 K-pop Predictions: Disbands and New Girl Groups

With the new year drawing to a close, it's time to make some predictions about the K-pop industry. Specifically, which groups do you think might disband or what new girl groups will debut in 2022?

NEW GIRL GROUPS

1. **YG’S NEW GIRL GROUP WILL DEBUT**

It's become a hot topic in the K-pop community: will the upcoming girl group from YG make their debut in 2022? Trained under the YG Entertainment label, these trainees have been causing quite a stir. YG has already delayed their debut for an undisclosed number of times, but I believe a final date is in the works. This group will likely debut in 2022, as rumored.

2. **OH MY GIRL WILL DISBAND**

The fate of OH MY GIRL is a subject of debate. While many of the group's contemporaries have seen significant success, OH MY GIRL hasn't quite achieved the same level of popularity. The combination of tough competition and changing industry trends might spell the end for the group in 2022. Only time will tell, but it's a possibility we can't rule out.

3. **HYBE WILL ANNOUNCE A NEW GIRL GROUP**

Hybe (formerly JYP Entertainment) has long been known for their talent agency work. Given that it has been quite some time since rumors of a new girl group have surfaced, I would say they will likely announce a new group in the near future. Fans and industry insiders are eagerly anticipating this announcement.

PREDICTED DISBANDMENT

1. **BLACKPINK MIGHT DISBAND**

When it comes to predicting disbandments, BLACKPINK is certainly in the mix. Many believe they might go the way of 2NE1 and disband in 2022. It's a controversial stance, but let's examine why:

Historical Precedent: 2NE1 faced similar circumstances. 2NE1's disbandment didn't happen due to poor performance but rather due to the departure of a member (Park Bom) and other contractual issues. YG Entertainment's approach to training and using groups that revolve around a specific concept may have led to a similar outcome for BLACKPINK. Concept and Copycat Issues: YG has made similar statements in the past, likening BLACKPINK to the "pretty" version of 2NE1. This suggests that the group's concept and visual appeal were heavily influenced by 2NE1, possibly eating into their own fanbase. Strategic Transition: YG may recognize the need for a drastic change, leading to a sudden disbandment announcement. This would allow them to introduce a new, potentially similar concept under a different label in the subsequent year.

Edit: I have received feedback about my initial statement on 2NE1's disbandment. It was clarified that Park Bom's scandal was the main reason for her hiatus, and subsequently, the group's disbandment. I hope this update is helpful for everyone who was concerned.

Regardless of the reasons, the parallels between 2NE1 and BLACKPINK are striking. Considering the harsh competition in the K-pop industry and the changing trends, 2022 might just be the year BLACKPINK decides to take a break.

Stay tuned for updates on these exciting and potentially shocking developments in the K-pop world. Keep an eye on official announcements and fan reactions for more insights.