Pink Velvet’s 2016 ‘Russian Roulette’ Goes Viral Once more in 2026

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If you’ve been a Red Velvet fan for any length of time, you know that “Russian Roulette” isn’t just a song—it’s a core memory. The track that dominated 2016 K-pop with its quirky choreography and addictive hook is back in the spotlight, and this time, it’s the members themselves serving up the nostalgia.

On Feb. 3, Red Velvet posted a TikTok that sent ReVeluvs into an emotional spiral. The video features Irene, Seulgi, and Joy each performing the iconic “Russian Roulette” choreography—complete with all those cute hand gestures and silly robotic arm movements that made the dance so memorable in the first place. The caption? “#2016 Russian Roulette but it’s 2026.”

A Decade of ‘Russian Roulette’

Let that sink in for a moment: “Russian Roulette” was originally released on September 16, 2016. We’re talking about a song that’s approaching its tenth anniversary, and yet it continues to gain traction on TikTok, proving that Red Velvet’s impact on K-pop and pop culture at large is anything but fleeting.

For 3rd Gen K-pop fans, this hit represents a golden era. The track showcased everything that made Red Velvet stand out from their peers—the perfect blend of catchy pop sensibilities with just enough quirky edge to keep things interesting. The choreography became instantly iconic, spawning countless cover videos and dance challenges that have persisted across social media platforms for nearly a decade.

The fact that the song continues to trend on TikTok speaks volumes about Red Velvet’s lasting cultural footprint. New fans discover the track through viral videos, while longtime ReVeluvs get to relive the magic all over again.

The . Section Is a Whole Mood

As expected, ReVeluvs flooded the comments with their emotions. The responses perfectly captured the bittersweet feelings that come with supporting a group through the years.

“2016: red velvet comeback 2026: red velvet come back,” one fan wrote in the comments. The wordplay hit hard—back in 2016, we were celebrating new music drops, and now fans are hoping for the group to come back together for more releases.

Another fan kept it simple but heartfelt: “I missed yall so bad.”

These comments reflect a sentiment that’s been building in the fandom, especially since Red Velvet hasn’t dropped new music since August 2024 with their album Cosmic. For a fandom accustomed to regular comebacks and content, the wait has felt particularly long.

What Happened to Red Velvet?

For those who need a refresher on the current Red Velvet situation, here’s what you need to know about each member’s status.

The group—which includes members Irene, Seulgi, Joy, Wendy and Yeri—first debuted in 2014 with their single “Happiness.” They remain active as a group, but the landscape has shifted significantly over the past couple of years.

In April 2025, Wendy and Yeri left SM Entertainment for solo activities. Before you panic, they confirmed they will continue group promotions, with new releases and tours happening, although comebacks might be less frequent due to members focusing on solo careers.

SM Entertainment released a statement about the departure that was surprisingly warm and supportive. “The time we spent together with Wendy and Yeri […] was a great joy for us,” SM Entertainment said in their statement, as translated by Soompi. “We will cherish all the moments we have spent together with them until now, and we will sincerely root for Wendy and Yeri as they make a new start.”

The label also provided reassurance for worried fans, adding that “as members of Red Velvet,” the two K-pop idols will still be “working with us for their group activities, and we ask that you look forward to Red Velvet’s shining journey that will continue to unfold.”

The Contract Breakdown

For fans keeping track of the logistics, here’s where each member stands according to NME:

• Seulgi renewed her contract with SM Entertainment in August 2023
• Irene renewed her contract with SM Entertainment in February 2024
• Joy renewed her contract with SM Entertainment in January 2025
• Wendy signed an exclusive contract with Asnd in April 2025
• Yeri signed a contract with Blitzway Entertainment as an actress in May 2025

What Wendy and Yeri Are Up To

Wendy has been thriving in her solo music career. She released her third mini album Cerulean Verge in September 2025 under her new label Asnd, followed by a world tour.

Yeri, meanwhile, has pivoted toward acting with her move to Blitzway Entertainment. It’s a natural evolution for a member who has always shown interest in expanding her creative horizons beyond music.

Looking Ahead

While comebacks might be less frequent due to members focusing on solo careers, the door clearly remains open for Red Velvet as a group. The contract arrangements ensure that all five members can still come together for group activities, even as they pursue individual paths.

For now, ReVeluvs can take comfort in moments like this TikTok—small reminders that the bond between these five women, and their connection to fans, hasn’t faded. Whether it’s 2016 or 2026, Red Velvet continues to deliver the moments that make K-pop fandom so rewarding.