K-pop words to knowK-pop
Comeback (컴백, keombaek) — an artist’s return with new music
In K-pop, a comeback is an artist returning with new music, and its first music-show performance is called the comeback stage.
컴백 · keombaekComeback stage = 컴백 무대Updated Oct 20, 2026
A comeback album to pre-order
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Example image
ILLIT ‘BREAK EVEN’ — MAD Ver. (Amazon Exclusive)
A comeback album you can pre-order on Amazon. Amazon lists a photobook, folded poster, sticker, CD-R and photocards with it.
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Official product image
ILLIT ‘BREAK EVEN’ — QUIET Ver. (Amazon Exclusive)
Another version of the same comeback album; each version has its own photocard.
What does it mean?
Comeback (컴백, keombaek) is borrowed from English. The Korean standard dictionary Urimalsaem defines it as returning to a stage where one used to perform, and lists related words such as 컴백 무대 (comeback stage), 컴백 쇼케이스 (comeback showcase), 컴백 트레일러 (comeback trailer) and 컴백곡 (comeback song).
Where is it used?
Soompi’s glossary defines the “comeback stage” as the first performance on a music program that promotes a new title track or single. Music shows such as M Countdown, Music Bank, Music Core and Inkigayo are where these stages happen.
In a sentence
“ILLIT is making a comeback with a new album.” / “Her comeback stage is on Friday.”
Similar words
Related: 컴백 대전 (comeback war), which Urimalsaem describes as many singers returning around the same time and competing with new music.
More on K for All
K-pop guideHow to buy K-pop albums in the USMusic Bank — KBS’s Friday music show