Boy band NRG is joining Shinhwa, S.E.S and Sechs Kies in the growing list of first-generation K-pop groups making a comeback in recent months.

To celebrate the group’s 19th debut anniversary, three of the remaining NRG members -- Chun Myung-hoon, Lee Sung-jin and Noh Yoo-min -- held a fan meeting at KT Olleh Square in Seoul on Saturday to announce their plans for a new album, scheduled to be released next year to commemorate the group’s 20 years.

“This is our comeback, rather than a reunion, since we never disbanded,” said member Chun at the event. “It took a long time for us to come to this conclusion due to different personal reasons.”

Debuted as a five-member act in 1997, NRG gained wide success at home and in China with hit tracks like “I Can Do It” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.”

However, the group’s career has not been without its lows. After the death of member Kim Hwan-sung in 2000, and the departure of Moon Sung-hoon in 2005, Lee was mired in an alleged gambling scandal in 2009. The fan meeting was Lee’s first public appearance in seven years.

“I missed being with the members, and hope that we can continue to work together,” said Noh.

By Kim Yu-young (ivykim@heraldcorp.com)