As we head into the final months of the year, K-Pop idols and indie artists are announcing their last quarter comebacks with vigor.

Unlike many other countries, the art of the comeback is a big deal in Korean entertainment. The careful process leading up to a major return can determine how successful the track will be.

So what makes a great comeback? Check out the 4 "ingredients" below and see if you agree.

1. An Exact Comeback Date - Nothing can drive a K-Pop fan crazier than a vague announcement of a comeback! Luckily, most major labels take it upon themselves to announce comebacks within 2 weeks of a new release. For the occasional instance of a stalled comeback (such as the year-long wait for YG Entertainment's WINNER), music labels seem to be embracing YouTube uploads on their official channels.
2. Exciting Concept Photos - More exciting than seeing new hair colors, which is often associated with comebacks, is the release of concept photography. These photos introduce the direction a group or solo artist is taking their latest comeback in; and concepts can be virtually anything! From the dark and edgy concepts of VIXX, to the sassy nurses of Girls' Generation, and the beach-bound boys of B1A4, great concept photos win the hearts of fans and the interest of potential new fans.
3. Captivating MV Teaser - Lights, camera, action! Music video (mv) teaser are mini videos that are jam packed with much to entice viewers. Great trailers deliver a snippet of the comeback track's music, stunning visuals and possible choreography to anticipate. One popular teaser set this year was for "Red," by 4Minute's HyunA. The solo comeback teasers featured a catchy beat, vibrant colors and even a monkey! Leaving an audience wanting more is the great pull for mv teasers.
4. The Track Listing - Finally, that last ingredient for a great comeback is the announcement of the comeback track listing. A track listing gives listeners more to anticipate as well as the opporunity to learn song names. Even more so, some track listings show if a group member or solo artist was involved in the songwriting or composition process. Recently, Starship Entertainment released the tracklist for boy band Boyfriend's comeback and netizens are still speculating about the official comeback date. (Remember, the first ingredient is not mandatory!)

When these four ingredients are put together, labels and artists are able to capture the hearts of their fans all over again. Anyone can have a comeback but a great comeback is much more exciting!