The "kings" of K-pop are back. Third-generation boy groups, who laid the global foundation for the genre, are returning with ferocious momentum, putting their fourth and fifth generation successors on high alert. The wave began with Monsta X last September. With all members except the youngest, I.M — who recently enlisted — having completed their military service, the group released their first full-group album, "The X." They proved their staying power by hitting major global charts, including the Billboard 200. The group followed this by touring the U.S. with "iHeartRadio Jingle Ball 2025," the largest year-end festival in America, hitting four major cities, including a kickoff at Madison Square Garden last December. The boy band's world tour, "The X: NEXUS," which kicked off last month, is also cruising smoothly. EXO followed suit, releasing its album "EXIST" last month. Fresh off an explosive "MMA 2025" stage, it achieved a "Grand Slam" with five music show wins for "Crown," the album's title track. The group is preparing for its first solo tour in six years, "EXO PLANET #6 – E