The 5 Stages of a K-Pop Comeback, as Told by Memes

Experiencing a K-Pop comeback is a thrilling rollercoaster filled with surprises, emotions, and plenty of sleepless nights. Here are the five emotional stages every K-pop fan goes through during a comeback, explained by memes!

First Stage: Emotional Preparation

This stage hits you completely by surprise. The agency suddenly drops a mysterious teaser or comeback announcement without warning, leaving fans scrambling to decode every hidden message, concept theory, and visual hint. Brace yourself—your productivity for the day is officially gone.

Second Stage: The Breakdown

Visual overload incoming! Official concept photos and music video teasers have finally arrived, and you’re quickly forming opinions about the comeback. Excitement builds rapidly as fans begin speculating whether this comeback will live up to their expectations. With the actual release only hours or days away, anticipation reaches fever pitch.

Third Stage: Peak Insanity

The moment of truth has arrived—the music video is finally out. Say goodbye to all your daily tasks, because priorities are clear. Streaming the MV nonstop, screaming at your screen, voting passionately, mastering fan chants, and maybe even reconsidering your bias, you’re fully consumed by comeback fever.

Fourth Stage: Streaming Zombie Mode

You thought stage three was intense? Music show promotions week says otherwise. Endless streams, live performances, eye-catching stage outfits, captivating choreography, and dozens of fancams flood your timeline. Sleep is a distant memory as you frantically try to keep up with behind-the-scenes content, fan interactions, and voting rounds.

Fifth Stage: The Finale

Just like that, the promotions are already over. Two whirlwind weeks vanish, leaving you feeling surprisingly empty. Your playlists, saved memes, and memories from this comeback are all that remain. The only thought running through your head now: “When’s the next comeback?”