Kep1er announces comeback on March 31 with new album 'CRACK CODE', featuring intriguing teasers and a powerful performance.
March/9/2026 11:10Related Groups & Members
Kep1er will make a comeback to the music world on March 31. Their agency, KLAP Entertainment, announced through official social media that they will return with a new album on March 31, releasing spoiler posters and comeback posters in succession. The released spoiler poster features mysterious puzzle pieces engraved on various newspapers. The words 'CRACK', 'CODE', and 'UNLOCKED' are revealed on the puzzle pieces, sparking fans' curiosity. Notably, the words 'CRACK', 'CODE', and 'UNLOCKED' imply meanings like 'solving the code' and 'unlocking', and it is impressive that the three words meet at the initial 'K' of Kep1er. Fans are excited about what kind of world Kep1er will open through the new album. The subsequently released comeback poster catches the eye with its intense mood. In a darkened time and lonely space, a poster is affixed to a steel wall, focused by headlights, capturing attention. The poster states the name of Kep1er's new album, 'CRACK CODE', and the release date of March 31, raising expectations for their transformation in the new album. This marks their comeback after 7 months since the release of their 7th mini-album 'BUBBLE GUM' on August 19 last year. Fans are curious about what kind of musical epic will perfectly unlock their hearts with Kep1er's powerful performances and enchanting vocal colors. Meanwhile, they have met fans in various Asian countries through their concert tour '2025 Kep1er CONCERT TOUR [Into The Orbit: Kep1asia]', reaffirming their solid fandom while gaining diverse stage experiences. They have also appeared on Nippon TV's 'Best Artist 2025' and Apple TV+'s original global music survival series 'KPOPPED', showcasing their status as a K-POP girl group. Recently, they sang the OST 'I Stay' for the globally popular animated film that topped the box office, 'Moana and the Legend of the Sea 2', receiving high praise from audiences and listeners, drawing attention to Kep1er's transformation in the new album. Kep1er will release their 8th mini-album 'CRACK CODE' through all music streaming sites on March 31 at 6 PM. - Kep1er Yongun announces departure from the group... will continue activities as a 6-member group - “Leaving Kep1er” Yongun shares feelings with fans, “To a new chapter... I hope you stay well until we meet again.”
Related Articles
The ASIA CULTURE FESTIVAL 2026 (ACF2026) will take place in Tokyo on June 9-10, 2026, showcasing Asian music, fashion, and culture. The event includes awards, fashion shows, and live performances, aiming to promote cultural exchange across Asia, especially between Japan and Korea.
The 'ASEA 2026' music festival, showcasing top Asian artists, kicked off on the afternoon of the 16th with Atsuhiro Sato on the red carpet. The event takes place over two days at the Belluna Dome in Saitama. U-NEXT will exclusively stream performances from artists like Kep1er, MADEIN, and ENHYPEN.
On the morning of the 15th, Kep1er departed for Japan via Gimpo International Airport for their fan meeting 'Kep1arcade.' The article notes that it is based on local media coverage. There is also mention of Kim Chaehyun's revealing leotard, which sparked discussion, and she clarified that she chose it herself. Additionally, Kep1er showcased a stunning performance at a baseball stadium, where Kim Dayeon also participated in the opening pitch.
Interest in 'GIRLS PLANET 2' is surging, with applications surpassing those of 'BOYS II PLANET'. About 30% of applicants are from the Americas. Over 130 Korean agencies show intent to participate, and auditions at 'KCON JAPAN 2026' attracted far more applicants than expected, highlighting the global enthusiasm for K-POP.
On the afternoon of the 13th, a KBO game between Kiwoom Heroes and Hanwha Eagles took place at the Gocheok Sky Dome, featuring a performance by Kep1er. Kim Da-young also made an appearance for the ceremonial first pitch. Additionally, Kim Chae-hyun faced controversy over her revealing leotard, which she defended as her own choice. Some performances at Kep1er's fan meeting in Japan this May were canceled due to unavoidable circumstances.
Kep1er's Kim Chaehyun faced criticism for her revealing leotard in a ballet video. She clarified that she chose the outfit herself, wanting to wear pink for its association with ballet. Despite the backlash, she expressed her intention to adjust her outfit choices in the future.
Mnet has announced 'GIRLS PLANET 2,' set to premiere in 2027. This new survival show will expand global auditions for a girl group, following the success of 'Girls Planet 999' and the debut of Kep1er. Auditions will be held worldwide, starting May 1, 2026, at 'KCON JAPAN 2026.'
Kep1er announced the cancellation of certain performances at their Japan fan meeting 'Kep1arcade' due to unforeseen circumstances. They expressed deep apologies to fans who were looking forward to the events. The canceled shows were scheduled for May 15, 19, 20, and 22. The group recently made a comeback with their 8th mini-album 'CRACK CODE' and will participate in a ceremonial pitch and performance on May 23.
On the afternoon of the 8th, MBC MUSIC's 'SHOW CHAMPION' aired live from the MBC Dream Center in Gyeonggi-do, featuring performances by artists such as Kep1er, PENTAGON's Kino, and others. Kep1er released their title track 'KILLA (Face the other me)' MV, while Kino launched his 3rd EP 'Lost and Found' with the MV for 'TAXI'.
Kep1er released their 8th mini-album "CRACK CODE" today, along with the music video for the title track "KILLA (Face the other me)." The video showcases unforgettable group performances and a catchy chorus, particularly highlighted by a memorable dance move. The album explores breaking limits and confronting hidden instincts, featuring an electronic hip-hop sound with intense elements.
