K-pop's February 11, 2026, headlines delivered a mix of challenges, milestones, historic breakthroughs, heartfelt gestures, and bittersweet farewells—reminding fans that the industry is as much about resilience and human stories as chart-topping success.
TWICE: Injury Hiatus Amid Enduring Legacy
JYP Entertainment announced on February 11 that TWICE member Dahyun will take a temporary hiatus from the ongoing "THIS IS FOR" world tour due to a fractured ankle. The decision, made after consultations with medical professionals and prioritizing her health, means Dahyun will miss the North American leg from February 13 through March 7. Fans have rallied with well-wishes, echoing sentiments from earlier tour stops where she performed seated during recovery phases. This setback underscores the physical demands of grueling world tours, even for veterans like TWICE, who continue to deliver high-energy shows despite obstacles.
In brighter news for ONCEs, TWICE's iconic 2018 track "What Is Love?" MV officially surpassed 900 million views on YouTube around 12:35 p.m. KST on the same day—becoming their first MV to hit this milestone after over seven years and ten months. The bubbly, rom-com-inspired classic remains a cornerstone of TWICE's discography, proving the group's timeless appeal and strong visual storytelling endure.
NMIXX: Pioneering K-Pop at Brazil's Carnival
NMIXX etched their name in history as the first K-pop act to perform at Brazil's legendary Carnival. The JYP girl group will appear as a special guest at Brazilian pop artist Pabllo Vittar's Bloco da Pabllo block party in São Paulo on March 16 (local time), performing their 2025 collab single "MEXE." This marks a major cultural crossover: Carnival's massive street celebrations represent one of the world's largest festivals, and NMIXX's invitation highlights their growing Latin American influence since debut. For a fourth-gen group, this breakthrough expands K-pop's global footprint beyond arenas into iconic cultural events.
IVE's Jang Wonyoung: Philanthropy in Focus
IVE's Jang Wonyoung made headlines with a generous 200 million KRW (approximately $137,400) donation to Severance hospitals, split equally between Severance Children's Hospital and Gangnam Severance Hospital's Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. The contribution supports treatment and recovery for pediatric and adolescent patients—a cause close to Wonyoung given her massive young fanbase (Dive). This act of kindness reinforces idols' roles as positive influencers, turning spotlight into meaningful impact.
BAE173's Hangyul: End of a Decade-Long Chapter
BAE173 member Hangyul has parted ways with PocketDol Studio after approximately 10 years, with his exclusive contract ending February 28. The agency described the journey as "precious," noting Hangyul's growth from trainee days through his 2017 debut with IM, appearance on "The Unit" (ranking 13th), and eventual BAE173 activities. While bittersweet, such transitions are common in K-pop, often paving the way for new solo or group opportunities. Fans express gratitude for his contributions while anticipating his next chapter.
NCT WISH: Short-Form Dominance Sets Record
NCT WISH set a historic benchmark as the first K-pop boy group in YouTube history to surpass 100 million views on a single Short. Their adorable "Cham Cham Cham" challenge video, uploaded in August 2025, reached the milestone around February 8, 2026—highlighting the group's mastery of short-form content in the TikTok/YouTube Shorts era. This achievement cements NCT WISH's edge in digital engagement, appealing to Gen Z audiences with viral, replay-worthy charm.
Wrapping Up: A Day of Depth in K-Pop
February 11, 2026, captured K-pop's multifaceted reality: physical setbacks and recovery (TWICE), cultural milestones (NMIXX), genuine philanthropy (IVE), career evolutions (BAE173), and innovative digital success (NCT WISH). These stories remind us that behind the glamour are dedicated artists navigating health, legacy, and global expansion. As the industry pushes boundaries, fan support remains the constant force driving resilience and progress.
Stay tuned to kpopecho.com for more in-depth coverage.
