82 Major, High Key, All Hours, etc.: The real battleground in the 2026 music industry is the 'middle' [TD New Year's Project]

◆ Will a star rise in 2026?
◆ Teams that stand at the 'middle ground' chosen by entertainment professionals

So, which teams does the industry consider to be at the center of this "middle ground"? We asked around 50 entertainment industry professionals, including executives from large, medium, and small entertainment agencies and music PR agencies, which groups they believe will be at the top of the game this year. The most frequently mentioned group was 82 Major. More than half of the respondents cited this group's potential.

The group, which debuted in 2023, is just entering its third year, and the protective shield of their rookie status is slowly fading. With word-of-mouth continuing to build for both their performances and music, many are seeing this year as a turning point.

Many responses focused on the future of Hi-Ki, who debuted in 2022. With clear talent and unique style, and popular songs like "A Rose Bloomed Between Buildings" and "It Was Summer," the possibility of further growth was mentioned.

There were mixed opinions regarding Kiss of Life, with some saying the team was already on track and others saying this year would be the real turning point. However, there was a consensus that 2026 would be crucial.

Other artists mentioned include Psychers, All Hours, Eunice, and At Heart. Most of these artists have already achieved a certain level of record sales and stage experience through multiple comebacks. Now, they must prove their potential for further growth.

However, the industry's perspective on them remains questionable. The prevailing view is that there's still no decisive turning point to discuss a significant weight class increase, and it's too early to define them as success or failure.

In 2026, teams that are neither big nor new will compete for survival amidst harsh evaluations. The industry's attention is focused on which team will be able to maintain its group status and move on to the next generation.