Boy band g.o.d. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Oct. 25 (Korea Bizwire) – In a departure from the past, when K-pop idol groups faced the so-called ‘seven-year jinx,’ it is now increasingly common to witness the longevity of these ensembles.
Even when affiliated with different entertainment agencies, the members of these long-lasting K-pop idol groups persist in performing together under the same group name. The question of whether the ‘separate but together’ strategy will become a prevailing trend in the K-pop industry is drawing significant attention.
One such group, g.o.d., which will celebrate its 25th anniversary next year, is recognized as a long-lasting K-pop group. The group has once again reaffirmed its status as a national icon, with sold-out tickets for its 2022 concert ‘g.o.d. ON,’ participation in the 2023 KBS Grand Plan, and a year-end concert.
Debuting in 1999, g.o.d. has produced numerous hit songs, including ‘To My Mother,’ ‘Lies,’ and ‘One Candle.’ Even after the departure of member Yoon Kye-sang, the group continued with individual activities, never officially disbanding. In 2014, they made a full comeback to celebrate their 15th anniversary.
With the exception of Danny Ahn and Kim Tae-woo, the other members of g.o.d. are associated with different entertainment agencies, yet they consistently perform as a united group.
Girl’s Generation (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
Koyote, a legendary co-ed Korean dance group that debuted one year prior to g.o.d., is also recognized as a representative long-lasting K-pop group. During a new song showcase in July, Koyote member Shinji expressed her commitment to continue Koyote performances until she turns 60.
TVXQ, which enjoyed immense popularity from the beginning thanks to a devoted fandom, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Despite the departure of three members in 2009, the remaining members, Yuno Yunho and Choikang Changmin, have continued their activities under the name of TVXQ.
TVXQ is planning to release its ninth regular album in December and host a concert and exhibition to celebrate its 20th anniversary.
Boy band Super Junior (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
Girls’ Generation, the longest-running female idol group, released an album last year to celebrate its 15th anniversary, reaffirming its enduring popularity.
SHINee, a boy band celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, recently held a fan meeting that was broadcast live in 102 countries worldwide, capturing the attention of its global fanbase.
Known for their original ‘beast-dol’ nickname, 2PM successfully held a concert last month to celebrate their 15th anniversary, enjoying strong popularity.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
