Understanding Sub-Unit Groups In Demand

Sub-unit groups have been also popular in the K-pop. Do they make an addition to all the groups who are coming out?

Sep 15, 2013 10:39 PM BST

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Aside from the rookie groups springing out here and there, subunit groups have also been growing recently in the world of K-pop.

For those who do not know what subunit groups are, subunit according to www.dictionary.com, is defined as one of the individuals or groups that are together constitute as a whole; one of the parts or elements into which a whole may divided or analysed.

What are the reasons agencies break down the groups and form another subunit group?

Firstly, it is to target a specific language market. China has been invaded by K-pop, thus, agencies know they're market would love it if Korean idols know Chinese language or even have a Chinese member in the group. It is given in any country; they will support a fellow national who is a member of a well-known group. For example, Super Junior has been broken down to Super Junior-M (M as Mandarin), reaching out to Chinese fans and releasing an album which will cater to Chinese modern music (also known as C-pop).

Next reason is for the groups to target a specific genre. Girls Generation was known for their cute and swift dance moves but SM Entertainment decided to make TTS or TaeTiSeo, which stands for Taeyeon, Tiffany and Seohyun, who are the powerhouse singers of the group. Another example is Super Junior KRY (stands for Kyuhyun, Ryeowook and Yesung), who are the balladeers of Super Junior, thus catering to the mellow and soft side of their girl fans. Meanwhile, T-ara N4 (subunit group of T-ara), targets the hip hop and energetic music lovers.

And like the definition of the subunit, agencies formed them so that fans can see a different side of each member and what else they can offer, thus, making them still representatives of the main group.

Admit it or not, whether the main group or the subunit groups will be performing on stage, fans will be "gaga" over them, hence supporting them both.

What do you think?

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