Girl group Kep1er has announced a comeback with their eighth mini album 'CRACK CODE' on March 31, 2026, following the departure of member Seo Young Eun. The agency CLEB confirmed the return of the now six-member group, with teaser posters hinting at a bold transformation. Fans are anticipating the new release after the group's previous activities in tours and media appearances.
Kep1er, the K-pop girl group, is set to make a surprise comeback on March 31, 2026, with their eighth mini album titled 'CRACK CODE'. The announcement comes from their agency CLEB, which stated that the group—now consisting of Choi Yu-jin, Xiaoting, Kim Chae-hyun, Kim Da-yeon, Hikaru, and HUENING BAHI—will release the album at 6 p.m. KST through various music sites.
This return follows the official departure of member Seo Young Eun, who had been on a seven-month health-related hiatus. Sources confirm the group will proceed as six members for this comeback. Teaser posters released feature puzzle pieces engraved with the words 'CRACK', 'CODE', and 'UNLOCKED', which align with the group's initials 'K' and suggest themes of unlocking and transformation. Additional posters depict an intense mood in a dark setting, with a single poster illuminated by headlights on an iron wall, displaying 'CRACK CODE' and the release date. One poster includes a bold image of a red car with glowing headlights, hinting at a charismatic concept.
The album marks Kep1er's return seven months after their seventh mini album 'BUBBLE GUM', released on August 19, 2025. Recently, the group has built their profile through the concert tour '2025 Kep1er CONCERT TOUR [Into The Orbit: Kep1asia]', appearances on Japan's NTV program 'Best Artist 2025', and the Apple TV+ series 'KPOPPED'. They also contributed the Korean version of the OST 'I Stay (From "Nuja 2")' for an animated film.
Global fans have expressed excitement over the puzzle-like teasers, speculating on the new musical narrative that promises powerful performances and captivating vocals.