The global K-pop community was set ablaze on January 28, 2026, as SM Entertainment officially confirmed the return of one of the industry’s most influential acts.
EXO, the group often hailed as the “Kings of K-pop,” has officially announced their sixth concert tour, titled EXO PLANET #6 – “EXhOrizon.”
This announcement marks a monumental milestone for both the group and their dedicated global fandom, EXO-L, signaling a full-scale return to the touring stage after years of focusing on solo projects, subunit activities, and mandatory military service fulfillments.
The Grand Opening: Three Nights at the KSPO Dome
The journey into the “EXhOrizon” will begin in the group’s home city of Seoul. EXO is scheduled to kick off the tour with a massive three-day residency at the prestigious KSPO Dome.
The performances are slated for April 10, 11, and 12, 2026. Historically, the KSPO Dome has served as the launchpad for EXO’s most iconic concert series, and the choice to return to this venue emphasizes the scale and grandeur of the upcoming production.
Fans can expect a masterclass in stage production, featuring the group’s signature high-concept storytelling, intricate choreography, and a setlist that bridges their legendary hits with newer, evolved sounds.
A Sweeping Tour Across Asia and Beyond
Following the initial Seoul dates, EXO will embark on an extensive trek across major Asian hubs, bringing their “EXhOrizon” to a diverse international audience. The group has confirmed a rigorous schedule that includes stops in the following cities:
- Southeast Asia: Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, and Singapore.
- Japan: Expanding on their massive Japanese popularity, the tour will visit Nagoya, Osaka, and Tokyo.
- Greater China: Dates have been secured for Macau, Hong Kong, and Kaohsiung.
This wide-reaching itinerary highlights EXO’s enduring global demand. By touching down in so many territories, the group is reaffirming their status as a global powerhouse.
While specific dates for these international legs will be released via individual posters in the coming weeks, the list of cities alone has already triggered a wave of excitement across social media platforms worldwide.
The Meaning of “EXhOrizon” and the Future of EXO
The title of the tour, “EXhOrizon,” is a clever play on the group’s name and the word “horizon,” suggesting a theme of looking forward to new beginnings and expanding the boundaries of the “EXO Planet” universe.
This tour is particularly significant as it represents the first time in years that the group has been able to plan such a comprehensive tour together.
It serves as a testament to their longevity and their ability to remain at the forefront of the Hallyu wave even after more than a decade in the spotlight.
Preparation and Fan Expectations
As April 2026 approaches, the anticipation continues to build. Beyond the tour, the members have remained active in the public eye through brand reputation rankings and television appearances, ensuring that the EXO name remains synonymous with excellence.
Fans are encouraged to stay tuned to official channels for ticketing information and potential additional stops.
For many EXO-Ls, this tour is more than just a series of concerts; it is a long-awaited reunion and a celebration of the unbreakable bond between EXO and their fans.
The “EXhOrizon” is set to be one of the defining musical events of 2026, promising a spectacle that only EXO can deliver.
On January 28, 2026, Starship Entertainment released a comprehensive official statement to address mounting speculation surrounding IVE member Jang Won Young and her latest project, FOREVER:CHERRY.
These findings led many to believe that the idol was preparing to launch her own independent business or fashion label, separate from her activities with IVE.
However, the agency has moved quickly to debunk these rumors and explain the strategic reasoning behind the trademark filings.
Clarifying the Project’s Nature
Starship Entertainment explicitly stated that FOREVER:CHERRY is not a personal business venture owned or operated by Jang Won Young. Instead, they characterized it as a brand collaboration project.
While the project is closely tied to her individual brand and aesthetic, it remains a professional partnership rather than an independent commercial enterprise.
This distinction is crucial for fans and investors alike, as it clarifies that Jang Won Young remains fully integrated with Starship Entertainment’s management and her commitments to her group, IVE.
The Strategy Behind Trademark Registration
One of the primary drivers of the “personal business” rumor was the discovery of trademark registrations filed in Jang Won Young’s name rather than the agency’s.
Starship Entertainment provided a detailed explanation for this unusual move.
They noted that because the name and concept of FOREVER:CHERRY are so deeply intertwined with the artist’s unique identity, image, and personal “value,” the decision was made to register the trademark under her name to provide long-term protection.
Jang Won Young (Credit: YouTube)
The agency’s rationale includes several key points:
- Prevention of Misuse: By securing the trademark, they aim to prevent third parties from indiscriminately using her image or the brand name for commercial gain once the project officially concludes.
- Preemptive Protection: The trademark applications cover a broad scope of business sectors. This is a defensive strategy designed to ensure that no unauthorized entities can exploit the artist’s likeness in various markets.
- Preserving Artist Value: Starship emphasized that this action was taken through an agreement with the brand partner to prioritize the artist’s rights and interests, ensuring that her “unique value” remains under her control.
Impact on Jang Won Young’s Career
This clarification reinforces Jang Won Young’s status as a top-tier brand ambassador and a “blue-chip” in the advertising world.
As a member of IVE, she has consistently topped brand reputation rankings, and FOREVER:CHERRY appears to be a sophisticated extension of her influence.
By taking these legal steps, Starship Entertainment is signaling a more protective stance toward their artists’ intellectual property, which is becoming increasingly important in the modern K-pop industry where an idol’s individual brand can be as powerful as their music career.
Future Outlook
The agency concluded their statement by reaffirming their commitment to protecting their artists’ rights and interests.
For fans, this means that while FOREVER:CHERRY will likely result in exciting new content or products, it does not signify a departure from her current path.
As IVE continues to prepare for their own upcoming projects, including their “REVIVE+” comeback, Jang Won Young will continue to balance her high-profile collaborations with her group activities.
The “FOREVER:CHERRY” project stands as a testament to her massive cultural impact, managed carefully to ensure her professional longevity and brand integrity.
