Bottega Veneta has officially announced Stray Kids’ I.N as its newest brand ambassador, marking an exciting collaboration between the luxury fashion house and the talented artist.
Stray Kids Member I.N Announced as Bottega Veneta’s New Brand Ambassador
On January 23, Vogue Korea shared the news through its official Instagram, celebrating I.N’s appointment as Bottega Veneta’s global representative. The brand expressed its confidence in the Stray Kids member, stating, “I.N perfectly embodies Bottega Veneta’s core values of ‘excellence’ and ‘innovative creativity.’”
I.N also shared his excitement about the partnership, saying, “I am honored to join Bottega Veneta as Brand Ambassador. As someone who loves fashion and understands the dedication it takes to master a craft, I am inspired by Bottega Veneta’s incredible artisanship and spirit of self-expression. The opportunity to represent the house and share its vision really means a lot to me. Please stay tuned!”
The collaboration also comes as no surprise to fans, as I.N previously garnered attention with his stylish appearance at Bottega Veneta’s Summer 2025 collection show during Milan Fashion Week in September. His charismatic presence and refined taste left a lasting impression, making him a natural fit for the brand.
In the newly released campaign photos, I.N also showcases his versatility by effortlessly pulling off two distinct looks: a casual yet chic ensemble featuring Bottega Veneta’s signature intrecciato leather blouson jacket paired with jeans, and a sleek, sophisticated suit that highlights his elegance.
With this new role, I.N also joins the ranks of esteemed Bottega Veneta ambassadors, including BTS’s RM, Julianne Moore, Jacob Elordi, Michelle Yeoh, and others. Fans are also eager to see how I.N will continue to merge his passion for fashion with his artistic endeavors, bringing a fresh and youthful energy to the luxury brand.
Congratulations and good luck to I.N on his newest fashion collaboration!
SUPER JUNIOR fans received the ultimate surprise when the entire group reunited at member Ryeowook’s wedding to former TAHITI member Ari. The celebration was not only a significant personal milestone for Ryeowook but also a nostalgic and emotional moment for fans and the group itself.
Ryeowook’s Wedding Photos Confirm Reveal Several Versions of SUPER JUNIOR Reunion
The highlight of the event was the “OT15 group picture”, which included all former, unit, and currently active members of SUPER JUNIOR. The photo quickly went viral, capturing the hearts of many who have followed the group’s journey over the years. However, it was later revealed through behind-the-scenes clips from attendees that the group actually took three versions of the iconic photo. One image featured the current nine active members of group while another one included the original 13 members who debuted together.
new kpop fans will never understand just how insane this picture is especially in 2024 pic.twitter.com/gYSs3344rH
The thoughtful gesture was speculated to be a considerate move by SUPER JUNIOR, acknowledging the varying sentiments of their diverse fanbase regarding the inclusion and exclusion of certain members. By offering different versions, they catered to all fans, respecting their feelings and preferences.
Kangin’s Unexpected Return
Another poignant moment during the wedding was Leeteuk’s address regarding a particular member. Kangin, who had stepped back from the public eye following two DUI incidents, was present at the wedding.
Leeteuk, who hosted the event, took the opportunity to address Kangin’s long period of reflection. He said, “You are now seeing Kangin, who has spent a much longer time reflecting than being active. Please offer him some forgiveness.”
Leeteuk is fully aware abt the amount of hates Kangin has been receiving for more than 10 years 😭😭
HE TOLD THEM TO FORGIVE KANGIN AND MOVE ON!! WHY PEOPLE CANT?! 🤧😭 ESP. THOSE SO CALLED 'FANS' WHO HATES OT13 AND OT15pic.twitter.com/NdWDNzONue
Leeteuk further emphasized the extent of Kangin’s reflection period, stating, “Kangin has been reflecting for 15 years. His active period was 5 years, while his reflection period has been 15 years. It’s a happy and good day, so please embrace him, show him love, and help him make a living.” His heartfelt plea resonated with many, highlighting the themes of forgiveness, growth, and the enduring bond within SUPER JUNIOR.
In response to Leeteuk’s touching words, Kangin stood up and respectfully bowed to the guests, a gesture that underscored his remorse and gratitude. This moment of humility and reconciliation added a deeper emotional layer to the celebration, marking it as not just a wedding but a reunion filled with hope, forgiveness, and renewed connections.
Ryeowook’s wedding was a significant event that brought SUPER JUNIOR together in a way that honored their past and looked towards a hopeful future. The reunion was a poignant reminder of the group’s journey and the strong bond they share with their fans.
Antenna shares company profile photos of Kyuhyun. Credit: Twitter/ANTENNA
Kyuhyun of K-pop powerhouse Super Junior has reached a significant milestone in his career by unveiling a fresh fan club name and logo following his recent affiliation with his new agency, Antenna.
On Wednesday, November 15, the artistrevealed that his newly christened fan club will be named “KYUpiter.” Furthermore, the name drew inspiration from the majestic Jupiter, the largest planet in the solar system.
According to the explanation, the choice symbolizes Kyuhyun’s “radiant presence as a multi-talented artist, whether as a ballad singer, K-pop group member, musical actor, or entertainer.”
💛
<KYUHYUN’s Fan Club Name & Logo>
We are opening a new chapter with KYUHYUN and his fans. Thanks to everyone who participated in the fan club name contest.
We can’t wait to share more stories and music with you in the days to come. Drumroll, please! Here we announce the… pic.twitter.com/DV9bolvhUk
Moreover, the name also serves as a reminder of the special bond between the artist and the fans. As the agency urged fans to continue safeguarding Kyuhyun, much like how “Jupiter safeguards the Solar System from asteroids.”
Alongside the fan club revelation is a distinctive artist logo that features a vintage, stamped texture. Notably, the design aims to reflect the depth of Kyuhyun’s musical prowess. “Please remember this special bond between the artist and fans whenever you say ‘Kyupiter,’” the staff added.
An eventful 2023 for Kyuhyun
These developments came after the artist moved to another agency.
In August, Kyuhyun inked a deal with his new agency, Antenna, marking a significant change in his career. At the time, the agency expressed its commitment to actively support the artist’s diverse range of activities. Additionally, Antenna also urged fans to extend their love and support to the artist as he embarks on this fresh start.
Founded by singer-songwriter Yoo Hee Yeol, Antenna serves as the home for a diverse array of artists. Among their roster of artists include Lee Hyori, Yoo Jae Suk, Lee Sang Soon, Kwon Jin Ah, Mijoo, and more
Prior to moving to Antenna, Kyuhyun, who made his debut as a member of Super Juniorin 2006, departed from SM Entertainment in July, concluding a 17-year association with the company. Notably, fellow Super Junior members Donghae and Eunhyuk also parted ways with SM Entertainment. Despite these changes, Donghae, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun have affirmed their commitment to continuing promoting as members of Super Junior.
As a solo artist, Kyuhyun, released his solo debut mini-album At Gwanghwamun in 2016.
Beyond his music endeavors, he has showcased his talents in various musicals and as a host on variety programs.
Based on the webtoon of the same name, Man and Woman will follow a long-term couple who is struggling to keep their relationship afloat.
Donghae will play Jung Hyun Sung, a jewelry designer who established a street fashion brand but tries to keep ends meet. Meanwhile, Lee Seol will portray Hyun Sung’s girlfriend Sung Ok.
In the romantic-comedy series, Donghae’s character will try to break up with his long-term girlfriend due to a brief mistake.
Man and Woman, which will be written by Park Sang Min, is expected to premiere in the second half of 2023.
#SUPERJUNIOR#DONGHAE as 정현성 (Jung Hyunsung) in Channel A’s upcoming drama based on the webtoon '남과 여' (Man and Woman). It will be aired during the second half of this year.
Despite their departure from the agency as individuals, the three will continue participating as members of Super Junior. The group, which debuted in 2005, has renewed its contract with SM Entertainment.
Moreover, Donghae and Eunhyuk, the Super Junior sub-unit D&E, are reportedly planning to establish their own label as co-founders. However, this still hasn’t been confirmed.
After over 17 years with SM Entertainment, Super Junior‘s Donghae, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun are parting ways with the agency. On July 14, SM Entertainment announced that the three decided not to renew their individual contracts. But although they’ll explore new avenues independently, they’ll continue participating in group activities under the SM Entertainment banner.
Donghae and Eunhyuk, aka the Super Junior unit D&E, are reportedly planning to establish their own label as co-founders. It remains to be seen whether the D&E unit will continue promoting as SM Entertainment artists or under the new label founded by Donghae and Eunhyuk.
#SUPERJUNIOR renewed with SM as a group#Eunhyuk, #Donghae and #Kyuhyun will do (individual) activities separately from SM and SM supports the challenge the members want to do
Super Junior plans to meet the fans globally with new music, performances & fanmeeting this year pic.twitter.com/Zd4XihAUD7
Meanwhile, Kyuhyun is in talks to sign an exclusive contract with Antenna, a label founded by Yoo Hee Yeol and home to artists like Jung Seung Hwan, Lee Hyori, Lee Sang Soon, and Yoo Jae Suk. Antenna has confirmed that discussions with Kyuhyun are progressing nicely, but nothing has been decided.
In addition to their career moves, Eunhyuk and Kyuhyun will soon be moving out of Super Junior‘s dorm in Cheongdam. They’re currently searching for new homes in the vicinity.
Oh noo super junior legendary dorm will become a history now 🥹 Kyuhyun, your time has come. Thank you for taking care and protect super junior dorm up until now 🥹 yall should throw a party there! @SJofficialpic.twitter.com/q1iOvZIXnD
Despite their departure from SM Entertainment as individuals, Donghae, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun will maintain ties with the agency for their group activities as Super Junior. The group, which debuted in 2005, has renewed its contract with SM Entertainment.
The remaining members of Super Junior—Choi Siwon, Kim Heechul, Leeteuk, Ryeowook, Shindong, and Yesung—have all renewed their contracts with the agency.
By the end of the day what builds the super junior name and brand is the members and elfs, not sm. Hopefully this new change means we’re seeing bigger and better things~ dont fret everyone! No one loves suju more than suju themselves! Just trust them💙
As Super Junior approaches its 18th anniversary, its fans can look forward to new developments in 2023 and beyond. SM Entertainment said it would support the three members’ new paths and plans to communicate closely with them to make it easy for Donghae, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun to carry out their group and solo activities simultaneously.
Featured Image: Super Junior’s SS9 in Seoul concert last April marked their last South Korean gig where they were all under SM Entertainment. Source: Instagram/SuperJunior’s official Instagram account.
Attention, global E.L.F.s! The 2023 Super JuniorFan Party in Manila is gearing up to be more than a night of music and fun. Scheduled for Friday, July 21 at the Araneta Coliseum, the event has added to its fan benefits, making it an unmissable opportunity for fans.
More Fan Benefits added for E.L.F.! 🤩💙
Don’t miss the rare chance to meet SUPER JUNIOR soon in Manila!! 🫶🏻
In an exciting update, 200 lucky fans will have the chance to participate in a group photo with Super Junior (10 fans per group photo). Additionally, eight winners will receive a signed Polaroid from a random group member. VIP Standing and VIP Seated ticket holders will receive a VIP ID and Lanyard, and ten winners will get a signed poster. But the benefits don’t stop there. All attendees of the Fan Party in Manila will receive an official poster and a photocard of a random member.
The Fan Party comes seven months after the successful Super Show 9 last December 2022. Unlike a standard fan meeting, a fan party offers a more intimate and relaxed concert party atmosphere, catering to the Hallyu Kings‘ global fanbase.
Fans can expect a thrilling lineup of more than 10 amazing performances, fun games, interesting talk segments, and an encore. The two-hour show promises to keep the audience entertained, making it impossible for fans to stay seated. Moreover, the fan party will feature new performances of songs that were not included in the past Super Show setlists.
Super Junior held a sold-out fan party in Macau with eight members: Donghae, Eunhyuk, maknae Kyuhyun, Leeteuk, Ryeowook, Shindong, Siwon, and Yesung. The Manila leg is highly anticipated as it will be their last performance in 2023 featuring all eight members. Fans can look forward to experiencing the beautiful highlights in the photos the organizers released.
Tickets for the 2023 Super Junior Fan Party in Manila are now available at TicketNet.com.ph and TicketNet outlets nationwide. Fans can check out Applewood and Wilbros Live on social media for more information.
Any ELFs coming to Super Junior Fan Party in Manila?
I will bring 50 pieces of this banner to be given away in the venue!!
The 2023 Super Junior Fan Party in Manila promises to be a memorable event, offering fans the chance to see their favorite artists perform live and enjoy a range of exclusive benefits. With an exciting lineup and enhanced fan benefits, this event is set to be a highlight of the year for the global E.L.F. community.
(Featured Image: Super Junior ensured E.L.F.’s had the time of their life at the Macau leg of the Fan Party. Source: Wilbros Live)
Super Junior has come a long way since they first burst into the K-pop scene in 2005 and went “viral” with 2009’s Sorry Sorry. Now, they’re well into their 17th year as a group!
Picture credit: Paula Abiog
Their 10th studio album, The Renaissance, is another great addition to their already extensive discography with tons of memorable hits. The album was supposed to be released in December 2020—their 15th anniversary year—but the release date was pushed back to March 2021.
“Renaissance” means revival or rebirth, and this concept aims to tell everyone that a new chapter for the group has begun. Since their debut, all of the group members have branched out into hosting radio and award shows, guesting in variety programs, acting in dramas and musicals, and more. So, this album, I think, was a great way to remind people that the members are singers first.
Unboxing the album
I’ve been listening to Super Junior for a long time, but I never really bought albums or merch—until now. And I think I picked the perfect SJ album to buy.
I’ll admit I’m most probably biased, but I honestly think the album looked beautiful. I opted to buy just one version—I got the Renaissance version—rather than the whole set (the other versions are Beautiful, Versatile, and Passionate). As a multi fan, I have to budget wisely so I can support all the groups and soloists I like equally!
Picture credit: Paula Abiog
But I digress. So, back to the “unboxing” Super Junior’s 10th album.
The title itself—The Renaissance—evokes images of a newer, brighter, more refined image, which fits perfectly into their concept. It came in what looked like a slim coffee table book that I may or may not have displayed in my living room alongside random art picture books.
The photos are, well, beautiful! They almost had a regal feel to it—I could almost see the invisible crowns on their heads. And while I did appreciate the aesthetics (like every E.L.F. did, for sure), I was also half-expecting an adorably goofy mess of a group photo that the group is known for as I flipped through the pages.
Unpacking the music
I listened to the whole album while gushing over the photos. The album started off with the high-energy Super, a hype song that fits well with the group’s image and personalities. Next up was the title track, House Party, is a disco-pop track with a surprising trap break in the middle. This sudden change of pace in the middle of the song was a bit jarring (and please, let go of the skrrt skrrt already!), and it took me a couple more listens to fully appreciate the song and its message. SJ sang about observing social distancing and following health protocols, and its message was so on point that it got the attention of the World Health Organization’s Director General.
Burn the Floor was a pre-album release single that I felt could’ve been the title track, mostly because sound-wise, it seemed to match the photo book’s elegant concept. The dramatic intro immediately caught my attention—mostly because it didn’t sound like a Super Junior song! But after listening to it, I felt it was a song only the group could pull off. It’s my personal favorite on the album. On the flip side, the song that didn’t sound like a Super Junior song was Closer. It’s a nice song to jam to, but for some reason I kept on thinking that the track seemed like something EXO would sing.
The Melody sounded almost nostalgic—fitting, as the lyrics talk about the group’s journey through the years, and how they will continue to walk together with E.L.F in the years to come. The sweet harmonies and fresh vocals throughout the song remind listeners that the men of Super Junior are great singers—something that I feel most people forget.
Picture credit: Paula Abiog
Nostalgia was real with the remake version of Raining Spell for Love. The remake’s tempo was slower than the original, and it showcased everyone’s voices well. Yes, the group has the holy trinity of vocals that is Super Junior – K.R.Y., but this song further drives home the point that all the members can sing beautifully.
Mystery was a surprise. I don’t think I’ve heard Super Junior try this kind of song before. The whistles and the beats were addicting. The same goes with Paradox.
More Days With You was a sentimental ballad featuring a more delicate take on SJ’s vocals. Finally, the album closed with Tell Me Baby, an upbeat, cutesy, holiday-themed song that reminds me of the equally cutesy No Other.
I like how, even after more than a decade churning out hit songs, Super Junior continues to experiment with their sound. They must’ve tried every genre in K-pop by now, and it doesn’t seem they’ll be stopping anytime soon!
2022 update: The group is releasing new music! The Road: Winter for Spring single album and the single Callin’ dropped on February 28.
Watch Super Junior be their usual goofy selves in this interview video during the MV shoot for Callin’:
Super Junior sub-unit Super Junior K.R.Y. performs When We Were US on SBS Inkigayo.
Super Junior’s vocal powerhouse trio—Kyuhyun, Ryeowook, and Yesung—has continuously blessed our ears with their different, yet harmonious vocals as Super Junior–K.R.Y. for the past 15 years. They made their official TV debut on the November 5, 2006 broadcast of KBS’s Music Bank, where they performed The One I Love. They have since made several official soundtrack (OST) appearances, such as Stop Walking By from the 2006 SBS drama Snow Flower. More recently, they sang Shadow of You from the OST of the 2021 KBS drama The King’s Affection.
They have also launched successful solo careers. Maknae Kyuhyun was the first to debut with At Gwanghamun in November 2014. Ryeowook followed suit in January 2016 with The Little Prince. Finally, Yesung released his first solo mini-album, Here I Am, in April 2016.
To celebrate 15 years of Super Junior–K.R.Y., here are 15 of their sub-unit and solo songs that will make you fall in love, warm your heart, and soothe your heartache.
1. Super Junior–K.R.Y.: The One I Love (2006)
A very young Yesung, Ryeowook, and Kyuhyun sang The One I Love from the K-drama Hyena in 2006. Even from this first sub-unit song, their voices were already so full of emotion.
2. Super Junior–K.R.Y.: The Night Chicago Died (2006)
The trio released another OST single for Hyena, The Night Chicago Died. This song was a Korean-language cover of a 1974 British pop song. The song’s title and melody were the same, but the Korean version had completely different lyrics.
3. Ryeowook: One Fine Spring Day (2010)
Ryeowook’s sweet vocals were on the spotlight in One Fine Spring Day, his solo song from Super Junior’s 4th album Bonamana. SJ’s eternal maknae sang about missing someone as he watched flowers bloom in spring.
4. Yesung: It Has to be You (2010)
Yesung’s distinct voice and husky tone took center stage in It Has to be You, his solo song from the K-drama Cinderella’s Sister.
5. Super Junior–K.R.Y.: Fly (2011)
Fly is probably the only Super Junior–K.R.Y. song that doesn’t bring listeners to tears. The trio recorded this single for the South Korean audition show Superstar K3; the track served as the theme song for the season.
6. Kyuhyun: At Gwanghamun (2014)
Kyuhyun was the first Super Junior member to officially have a solo debut. This sentimental ballad has a soothing melody that makes it very easy on the ears. The lyrics, though, are a bit heart-wrenching, which was further emphasized by Kyuhyun’s emotional singing.
7. Super Junior–K.R.Y.: We Can (2015)
Kyuhyun, Ryeowook, and Yesung sang about getting through the good times and the bad together, as well as their hopes for the future in this moving ballad. The song was part of Super Junior’s 10th anniversary special album, Devil.
8. Super Junior–K.R.Y.: Dorothy (2015)
Dorothy is a soft, emotional ballad about yearning for a lover to return. The sub-unit recorded this song for the group’s Magic album (Devil repackage).
9. Ryeowook: The Little Prince (2016)
Ryeowook made his solo debut in 2016 with The Little Prince. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a heartsick man in conversation with the Little Prince (yes, that Little Prince from the Antoine de Saint-Exupéry novel).
10. Kyuhyun: Still (2016)
Kyuhyun’s vocals have this uncanny ability to make people feel things. He sang about a lost love in Still, from his third EP Waiting, Still, which was released before his enlistment. His sadness was so palpable in the song, that you can’t help but want to go to South Korea and give him a long, reassuring hug.
11. Yesung: Pink Magic (2019)
Pink Magic marked a departure from Yesung’s usually melancholic songs. In the song, Yesung sang about love and seeing the world through rose-tinted glasses. The single was from his third mini-album of the same name, and is a bright, bubbly song with hints of retro. This song would be a nice addition to your playlist on your next summer road trip.
12. Super Junior–K.R.Y.: When We Were Us (2020)
Mention Super Junior–K.R.Y. and everyone’s first thought would be “beautiful ballads,” and When We Were Us is another lovely track to add to the sub-unit’s long list of mellow songs. This was the lead single off the trio’s first Korean mini-album (!) after 15 years as a sub-unit. The song is about longing for a past lover, and reminiscing about happier days. It’s a ballad track fans have come to expect from the trio, but is still a gorgeous song that shows off their powerful vocal chops.
13. Super Junior–K.R.Y.: Traveler (2020)
After releasing their debut Korean mini-album, the sub-unit made a Japanese comeback with Traveler. It’s a refreshing song that’s perfect for sunny days with a dash of light rain.
14. Yesung: Beautiful Night (2021)
Yesung continues to draw inspiration from retro as seen in his fourth mini-album Beautiful Night. The lead single, which shares the same name as the album, has an 80s city pop vibe—light and soothing, perfect for easy listening.
15. Kyuhyun: Love Story (2022)
Love Story is the final song from Kyuhyun’s four seasons project series, and the lead single of his latest mini-album of the same name. The song expresses the emotions of someone longing for an old lover, with a melody that matches well with fall and winter.
What is your favorite song from Super Junior–K.R.Y.?
Featured image: Super Junior sub-unit Super Junior K.R.Y. performs When We Were US on SBS Inkigayo. Photo: KOCOWA TV/YouTube.
Super Junior’s Donghae and Eunhyuk have been making K-pop fans dance to their bops since 2011, so it’s surprising to realize that they haven’t actually released a full Korean studio album—until now! But as the saying goes, good things come to those who wait, because this gem of an album was definitely worth the wait.
On November 2, the D&E sub-unit finally dropped their first full album, Countdown. The album contains 10 tracks—nine in Korean, and one in English—and showcases a more mature sound (but still sprinkled with fun) from the duo.
The songs in the album cover a wide range of genres—from the heavy dance track Zero, to the groovy La La La, to the pop ballad Have a Nice Day. The diverse genres in this album proves that this sub-unit can’t be boxed into just one genre of music.
The lead single, Zero, is an upbeat dance track that can be seen as a song for E.L.F. In the chorus, the pair sings, “Don’t go away to stop this story/ Even if it’s filled with scars/ Without you, without you I’m zero.” I feel that it’s a song that conveys the duo’s (and Super Junior’s as a whole) thoughts toward their loyal fans—that they would not have been able to go on for this long without E.L.F.’s love and support. I also personally think Zero is a good song. Maybe it’s not on the same level as the sub-unit’s superb 2015 track Growing Pains, but I’m pretty sure Zero will be on my SJ on repeat playlist.
SUPER JUNIOR-D&E 슈퍼주니어-D&E ‘ZERO (English ver.)’ On ¡Despierta América!
Beautiful Liar was a surprise. The song’s opening bars sounded like it was going to be a soft dance track, but then the chorus suddenly became more energetic. It jarred me a bit on the first listen, but this song is growing on me. The pair then sings about wanting to go on a vacation in Far Away, and it does sound like the perfect song to listen to on a trip! It’s the kind of song you put on when you’re spending a chill day on the beach. The vibe turns sentimental and emotional with Have a Nice Day and Home, balanced with the smooth and bright tracks Muse and Share my Love.
My favorite song from D&E’s latest release, however, is oddly not included in the album track list. Eunhyuk’s pre-release single, Be, is a nice emotional track that shows off the main rapper’s lovely vocals, for a change. I see Be as an ode to Eunhyuk’s younger self, encouraging him to never give up on his childhood dreams. I find the choreography in the M/V beautiful as well.
Overall, this album is musically diverse but still cohesive. It clearly shows the duo’s passion and commitment to their craft, which contributes to their staying power in the K-pop scene. This album is a great way to mark the sub-unit’s 10th anniversary.
As a final note, in Super Junior’s YouTube live broadcast on the eve of the full group’s 16th anniversary, the members mentioned that they are preparing loads more content (albums? Variety shows? Concerts? I’m sure all E.L.Fs like me would be more than happy to get quality content from these fine men!) in the coming months. With these men releasing quality content like the Countdown album, Super Junior D&E—and the rest of Super Junior—will truly be the last men standing.
Featured Image: Screen capture from Super Junior–D&E’s Zero MV. Photo: SMTOWN/YouTube
A sub-unit is a smaller group, usually around two to five members, formed from a larger group. Sub-units usually release music and concepts that have a different vibe from the main group. Forming sub-units also allow idols to experiment with genres and aesthetics not usually embraced by the full group.
Here are some of the amazing idol group sub-units in K-pop:
Super Junior–K.R.Y.
Let’s be real: sub-units won’t exist in K-pop if not for Super Junior—they were the first group to introduce the concept of sub-units in K-pop. The second generation idol group introduced Super Junior–K.R.Y., made up of main vocalists Kyuhyun, Ryeowook, and Yesung, in 2006 with “The One I Love” from the drama Hyena original soundtrack. The trio continually recorded several drama soundtracks, as well as beautiful ballad tracks. In 2020, they released their first EP, When We Were Us.
Listen to Super Junior K.R.Y’s “When We Were Us” from their EP of the same name:
Super Junior–D&E
Super Junior D&E is the fifth sub-unit of the legendary idol group, after Super Junior K.R.Y., Super Junior-T, Super Junior-M, and Super Junior-H. The unit brought together the group’s main dancers, Donghae and Eunhyuk. The duo debuted in 2011 with the catchy single “Oppa, Oppa.”
The talented twosome is celebrating their 10th anniversary as a sub-unit this year. They released their first full album Countdown on November 2, 2021. Watch the fun music video for their latest title track “Zero”:
Girls’ Generation–TTS
Girls’ Generation–TTS is the girl group’s first sub-unit, composed of main vocalists Taeyeon, Tiffany, and Seohyun. The trio has released three EPs: Twinkle, Holler, and Dear Santa. The unit is currently on hiatus, as Tiffany and Seohyun have left SM Entertainment, but SONEs are still holding out for a TTS comeback!
Watch their debut single “Twinkle” (featuring pre-debut Chanyeol, Baekhyun, Kai, and Sehun!) below:
Girls’ Generation–Oh!GG
Girls’ Generation-Oh!GG is the group’s second sub-unit, composed of the members still with SM Entertainment: Taeyeon, Sunny, Hyoyeon, Yuri, and Yoona. The unit released their first single album Lil’ Touch in 2018.
Watch their video Lil’ Touch below:
EXO–CBX
EXO-CBX is the first sub-unit of EXO, made up of members Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin. The trio debuted in 2016 with the high-energy track “Hey Mama!”
The unit is currently on hiatus as Chen and Baekhyun are still completing their military service. Their most recent release is 2018’s “Blooming Day.” Watch the music video below:
EXO–SC
EXO’s rapper line, Sehun and Chanyeol, came together to form the group’s second sub-unit, EXO–SC. They debuted in 2019 with their first EP, What A Life. Just one year later, they released their first full album, 1 Billion Views. Their combined album sales have already exceeded 900,000 copies, making EXO–SC one of the most successful K-pop sub-units!
Like EXO–CBX, EXO–SC is also on hiatus as Chanyeol is currently serving in the military and Sehun is busy with his acting projects. In the meantime, watch Sehun and Chanyeol’s “One Billion Views” below while we wait for the duo to make a comeback:
NCT
NCT is a massive 23-member group split into several sub-units: NCT U, NCT127, NCT Dream, and WayV. NCT U is a rotational unit that is formed from group members that fit a particular comeback concept. NCT127 is the Seoul-based unit that will be primarily active in Korea. NCT Dream was originally the “teenage” sub-unit with an age-based graduation system, but this system has since been abolished. WayV is the group’s China-based unit.
NCT127 is the latest sub-unit to make a comeback with “Sticker.” The song has ten music show wins as of October 8, 2021. Check out NCT127’s “Sticker” music video below:
VIXX LR
VIXX LR is the first sub-unit of concept kings VIXX, composed of main vocalist Leo and main rapper Ravi. The duo’s contrasting yet harmonious vocal colors debuted in 2015 with “Beautiful Liar“. Their last comeback was in 2017 with “Whisper.” Leo is currently busy with preparations for the Frankenstein musical, while Ravi is occupied with releasing solo music, appearing on variety shows and managing his two music labels—but here’s to hoping they make a comeback soon!
Watch VIXX LR’s “Whisper” music video below:
BIGBANG – GD&TOP/ GDxTAEYANG
Bigbang has two official sub-units: GD & TOP and GD x Taeyang.
Rapper duo G-Dragon and T.O.P released their first album as a sub-unit in 2010. That album yielded three singles: “High High,” “Oh Yeah,” and “Knock Out.” Their most recent single, “Zutter,” was released in 2015 as part of Bigbang’s MADE album.
VIPs know that G-Dragon and Taeyang were originally slated to debut as a hip hop duo before Bigbang, so fans were thrilled when they paired up to form a sub-unit in 2014. The K-pop legends have only released the track “Good Boy” so far, but fans will surely keep watch for a comeback!
RED VELVET–IRENE & SEULGI
Red Velvet’s leader Irene and main dancer Seulgi teamed up to form the girl group’s first sub-unit. The pair played up the sultry vibe with their first EP, Monster, released on July 6, 2020.
Be mesmerized by Irene and Seulgi’s tutting in “Naughty” below:
Of course, there are more insanely talented sub-units. There was the quirky Orange Caramel, the co-ed project groups Troublemaker and Triple H, the YG hip-hop duo MOBB, the sexy SISTAR19 and more. All of these sub-units add their own unique colors to the ever-growing K-pop scene.
Which sub-unit is your favorite?
Featured Image: Sehun and Chanyeol of the EXO–SC, sub unit of EXO. Photo: SM Town official website
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