Will B.I from iKON Return to the Music Industry or Start a Solo Career?
Despite the undeniable love B.I has for his members and the music, the likelihood of his return to iKON after leaving is quite slim. Groups often falter and disband after the departure of a key member, and iKON is no exception. Without their talented backbone, B.I, the group has lost a significant portion of its charm and creativity.
Background and Update
I've been eager to address this question for a while now. Based on recent posts from the “5 GAM” perfume lab’s Instagram, which is owned by B.I's mother, there's a small chance of his return. This social media engagement strategy recently featured a misleading fingerprint message box, hoping fans might leave well-wishes for B.I, and a 'fingerprint tree' tease with the message 'Will someone be back by the time flowers bloom.' These developments have kept iKon fans hopeful but remain speculative.
Despite Hopes, Realistic Prospects
While I do believe that B.I is not setting himself up to leave the music industry entirely, the chances of his return to iKON are slim. Drug-related scandals are taken very seriously in South Korea, and once a member leaves a group, they generally do not return. Therefore, any official return by B.I would be highly unlikely without a significant change in the current climate.
Current Group Situation
As for iKON's current members, they are facing their own set of challenges. Due to the removal of one of their key members, the group dynamic has shifted significantly. While some fans and members maintain a love and respect for B.I, the remaining members have expressed feelings of unhappiness and stress. This is highlighted by the scheduling of a fanmeeting on the 22nd, coinciding with Hanbin's birthday, which may amplify feelings of isolation and discontent.
Future Performances and Social Media Clues
Despite these challenges, a light at the end of the tunnel may exist in the form of upcoming performances. The group is set to perform at the 88 Rising Head in the Clouds festival, an event that has shown promise of continuing B.I's legacy without him. However, it remains unclear if all seven members will be present.
On Twitter, 88 Rising has posted messages that suggest the group performance will still proceed, even after B.I's departure. These tweets, dating back to 2021, convey a strong commitment to the group's persistence:
“Still a matter of ‘if not him, then who?’” (December 22, 2021)
“We have no plan to give up no matter what happens.” (March 29, 2022)
“Think in the long term.” (November 9, 2022)
Conclusion
While fans hope for a reunion, the realistic prospects of B.I's return to iKON are limited. Fans can still keep the faith, and the group's resilience and continued commitment to their legacy may surprise even the most skeptical. Whether B.I will eventually return or venture into a solo career, the future remains uncertain, but there's always a chance for new beginnings.
Stay tuned for updates and keep supporting iKON and B.I, no matter what paths they choose!
Keyword: iKON, B.I, solo artist