KPOP Meaning
Pre-debut refers to releasing songs or performing on stage before a group's official debut. According to TV Report, OURBIRTHDAY held pre-debut activities ahead of its official debut, performing the song "HUNGRY" split between two units, and then debuted officially at a showcase on August 19, 2026. My Daily also reported that the group appeared on music shows during pre-debut activities split into Side A and Side B. Both versions of "HUNGRY" were later included on the official debut single "Our Birthday." Coverage keeps the pre-debut and the official debut apart. It differs from trainee, the training stage before debut, and from a pre-release, where some songs come out ahead of an album.
Usage
Used for songs or stages released before an official debut, as in "a pre-debut song" or "pre-debut activities." When recording a debut date, keep it separate from the pre-debut date.
Examples
- HUNGRY (Side A) — Sung by two units during the pre-debut, and later included on the official debut single (TV Report).
- Our Birthday — The first single that marked the seven-member official debut on August 19, 2026 (TV Report).
In context
Sources
- TV Report: OURBIRTHDAY, JYP's first girl group in four years, makes its debut (August 19, 2026)
What we checked
TV Report: OURBIRTHDAY, JYP's first girl group in four years, makes its debut (August 19, 2026)
- My Daily: OURBIRTHDAY confirms official debut on August 19 (August 5, 2026)
What we checked
My Daily: OURBIRTHDAY confirms official debut on August 19 (August 5, 2026)