K-pop group Pentagon is marking its 10th anniversary with a major comeback and new music after a nearly three-year hiatus since their 2023 release "With Universe." Their latest single, "Coward," was written and produced by member KINO via his label Naked Inc., reflecting the emotional themes of hesitation and courage in reconnection. The song, released in September 2026, commemorates their decade-long journey since their debut in October 2016, symbolizing both their personal struggles and reunion with their fandom – known as UNIVERSE.

Despite being under different management agencies, the seven remaining members—Jinho, Hui, Hongseok, Shinwon, Yeo One, KINO, and Wooseok—overcame legal and logistical hurdles to reunite and record "Coward." Hongseok highlighted the complexity of coordinating schedules, securing group rights, and even agreeing on details like hair color. The members shared that they practiced choreography late at night and coordinated carefully amid busy individual careers, including solo music, musical theatre, acting, and military service.

Pentagon plans to extend their anniversary celebrations beyond the single, launching the "101010" tour spanning October to November 2026 across Asia from Osaka to Hong Kong. The tour’s name symbolizes their 10th anniversary and debut date, October 10. Engaging their fans, Pentagon innovated by letting UNIVERSE vote on the concert's setlist, though they keep the final selections a mystery, promising a diverse and nostalgic show that brings the group back to their K-pop roots and original style.

Musically, Pentagon deliberately embraced a traditional Korean-language K-pop sound with "Coward," pushing back against the Westernized trends dominating contemporary releases. KINO and Hongseok expressed a desire to reconnect with the melodic and chord-driven essence they grew up with. While the group acknowledges challenges like aging bodies and memory lapses from their early choreography days, they emphasize the strength and maturity gained from their experiences over the past decade. Their return marks not just a milestone but a testament to resilience and deep bond with their fans.