Why it’s trending: EXO has locked in their first group full-length album in about two and a half years. The EXO REVERXE comeback 2026 is already fueling anticipation—and questions—around the lineup.
SM Entertainment confirmed EXO’s 8th full-length album “REVERXE” (read as “Reverse”) will be released on January 19, 2026 at 6 p.m. KST. This cycle features six members—Suho, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, Sehun, and Lay. Pre-orders are open, and outlets note it’s the group’s first album activity since 2023’s “EXIST.” Soompi, Maeil Kyungje
What’s confirmed
“REVERXE” is an official physical and digital comeback. Press materials state the title is read as “Reverse,” hinting at a conceptual pivot. The album includes nine tracks and follows a mid-December preview with the pre-release “I’m Home,” performed at the “EXO’verse” fanmeeting in Incheon. Chosun Ilbo (via OSEN)
SM’s December 15 announcement opened pre-orders and confirmed the January 19 release time. Korean and international press also underscored that this arrives roughly two years and six months after the last group album, raising expectations for the concept and sound. Maeil Kyungje
Rollout calendar at a glance
- Jan 3–9: Concept/teaser images
- Jan 12: Album details reveal
- Jan 15–16: MV teaser images
- Jan 18: MV video teaser
- Jan 19 (6 p.m. KST): Full album + title MV
These dates were posted to EXO’s official channels and echoed by Korean and international media. Soompi, News18
Lineup snapshot—and what’s missing
Active for this comeback: Suho, Chanyeol, D.O. (Doh Kyung Soo), Kai, Sehun, and Lay. Lay’s participation is highlighted across coverage, positioning “REVERXE” as a six-member promotion. Soompi
Not participating: Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin (CBX). Multiple outlets report their absence is tied to unresolved legal and contract issues with SM, alongside ongoing solo work. As of mid-December reports, there is no official update indicating CBX participation in “REVERXE” or promotions. India Today, News18
Why “REVERXE” feels like a reset
The concept title—read as “Reverse”—suggests turning back to open a new world. It’s a fitting frame for a chapter that both honors the group’s history and adapts to change. “EXIST” (July 2023) drew strong interest, and promotion dynamics now shift to a six-member setup for 2026.
Musically, expect a nine-track set. The “I’m Home” pre-release performance gave a first taste: tight vocals and layered arrangement in a familiar EXO palette. Fans now wait to see how the title track flips the “Reverse” idea into choreography and visuals. Chosun Ilbo (via OSEN)
What fans are saying
- Excitement and nostalgia around the six-member photos and the “I’m Home” stage, with timelines full of teaser edits and vocal highlights.
- Mixed emotions over CBX’s absence and calls for clarity on the dispute, with hopes for future activities including all members.
- Curiosity about Lay’s schedule and whether overseas commitments will affect broadcast appearances.
These are aggregated reactions from fan communities and media coverage, not official positions.
Quick facts to keep handy
- Release: January 19, 2026 at 6 p.m. KST (physical + digital) — Soompi, Maeil Kyungje
- Album: 8th full-length “REVERXE” (Reverse) — 9 tracks in total — Chosun Ilbo
- Pre-release: “I’m Home” previewed at the EXO’verse fanmeeting in Incheon — Chosun Ilbo
- Comeback lineup: Suho, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, Sehun, Lay — Soompi
What to watch next
- Jan 18 MV teaser, followed by the full release on Jan 19.
- Official word on broadcast schedules, fan signings, and whether Lay will attend domestic promotions in person.
- Any new statements from SM or CBX on the unresolved contract dispute; recent coverage still labels it ongoing. India Today
- First-week metrics on Hanteo and global charts to gauge demand for a six-member configuration.