OBTAINED7
One of K-pop’s most beloved and influential boy bands has announced their return to celebrate over a decade in the industry alongside a new label partner.
On January 20, 2025, GOT7 will return with a brand new EP titled Winter Heptagon. This long-rumored comeback will not only commemorate the group’s 11th anniversary since their debut, but will also mark their first release under a new partnership with major Korean music label and distributor Kakao Entertainment. The highly anticipated record arrives three years after their eponymous EP, OBTAINED7released in May 2022, it is their first since leaving JYP Entertainment, the agency that originally brought them together. The announcement follows years of thriving solo careers for all seven members — Jay B, Mark, JacksonYoungjae, Jinyoung, BamBam and Yugyeom – who now come together to celebrate their shared heritage and strong bond with fans.
According to a press release from Kakao Entertainment confirming the partnership, Winter Heptagon aims to showcase GOT7’s distinctive sound and chemistry, which sets them apart in the ever-competitive K-pop industry, with the intention of “participating in various promotional activities as a septet.”
“Kakao Entertainment planned and produced GOT7’s new album with the aim of presenting high-quality content that resonates with the group’s global fans,” the agency explained. “Since this is GOT7’s new release in many years, Kakao Entertainment has made the best use of its music planning, production and marketing capabilities to create an album that highlights the musical color and the distinctive magnetism of the group.”
Working with GOT7 marks another significant achievement for the increasingly internationally focused Kakao Entertainment, which recently became the majority shareholder of historic K-pop label SM Entertainment after a competitive bidding war. With SM alongside a string of small but mighty K-pop labels under its belt like EDAM Entertainment (home to K-pop diva IU), Starship Entertainment (Monsta X and IVE), and High Up Entertainment (STAYC), more A newly established partnership with Sony Music in the United States, this partnership is a smart move for the company’s growing global ambitions.
Since GOT7’s debut in 2014, the boy band has carved out a unique niche with a genre-blending sound, impactful live performances, and heavy involvement in songwriting and production. The group’s discography includes defining K-pop hits like the uplifting anthem “Just Right” (which has over 435 million views). on his official YouTube video), the critically acclaimed emotional hit “If You Do” (235 million views and named one of the best K-pop songs from the 2010s by Billboard) and the iconic, pounding “Harry Carry” pump jam (130 million views).
Although all seven members chose not to renew their contract with JYP Entertainment on the group’s seventh anniversary in 2021, the commitment to the group has never wavered. Defying industry oddsthe septet reunited in 2022 to release OBTAINED7 under Warner Music Korea alongside the “Got7 Homecoming 2022 Fancon” event to highlight the lasting connection with fans.
Fast forward to the close of 2024, GOT7’s well-known playful and fan-centric spirit preceded the official comeback announcement with cryptic hints from members on social media.
Jay B first announced the group’s return during his solo concert “TAPE: RELOAD” with BamBam later confirming the January 20 release date in his signature light-hearted meme posting style. Fans can expect a series of teasers ahead of release, with pre-orders for the Winter Heptagon physical album starting December 20, 2024, on various Korean and foreign platforms. (As of press time, there are no announcements regarding an official physical release for the United States.)
GOT7 fans have also been collecting clues from the members regarding new details about the record. Although not officially confirmed, the members shared various information, including that the album will likely contain nine songs and that each member contributed lyrics to a song of their own. The overall theme and concept of the record is said to be “dark and sexy”. There are also rumors that BamBam wrote the title single, marking the first time the Thai rapper-singer has written a GOT7 single – if that’s true. Fans also cite Jay B and Youngjae, who share that the new single is reminiscent of the group’s 2017 single “Never Ever,” but with easy-listening production. The guys also plan to perform on Korean music shows and hold concerts in support of the album.
GOT7 members’ solo hits set the stage
Each GOT7 member’s solo efforts over the past three years have enriched their artistry and helped set the stage for this landmark comeback.
Frontman Jay B has explored a range of musical landscapes with releases on multiple labels and international tours, while Mark completed a successful US tour in support of his debut solo album. The other side. Jackson expanded his global presence with his pop album, Magic man, and collaborations with big names like Rain, Ciara, Epik High and XG, even performing at Coachella.
Jinyoung, who has mainly focused on his successful acting career, also released his first solo album, Chapter 0: With, early 2023, followed by the well-received Yugyeom Trust me in February 2024. These two records were named among the best of the year by media like Billboard. Meanwhile, Youngjae and BamBam each dropped full projects, both of BamBam’s projects Sour and sweet and Youngjae’s do it earning praise for their individual styles and storytelling.
Despite solo successes, the announcement of Winter Heptagon reflects the members’ shared enthusiasm and commitment to continue as a group.
GOT7’s global fanbase awaits “Winter Heptagon” album
GOT7’s influence extends far beyond the music charts; their close bond and authenticity fostered a dedicated global fan base, and the group took several risks and unexpected promotional routes during their collaboration to better connect with fans. With Winter Heptagonthe group aims to showcase their irreplaceable musical dynamics as a septet and remind fans of the unique magic – and well-documented chaos – they bring together when they form a collective of seven.
As GOT7 prepares for its anniversary celebration, fans around the world eagerly await the group’s next chapter – one that promises nostalgia, evolution, and a record entirely from the group’s creative minds, testimonial of GOT7’s enduring legacy and continued ability to captivate audiences around the world. .