Going Strong Even After 15 Years... The Return of Veteran K-Pop Idols

[Anchor]

Every year sees the birth of new idol groups, but veteran groups that have surpassed 15 or 20 years since their debut are still firmly standing by their fans' sides.

Reporter Kim Gyeong-hui looks into the background behind the increasing number of these so-called long-lasting idols.

[Reporter]

In 2023, 2PM's 15th-anniversary concert drew massive attention as their first full-group stage in six years.

2PM has now returned as a complete group once again after three years.

After drawing a total of 85,000 fans at the Tokyo Dome in Japan last May, they also sold out their weekend concerts in Korea, demonstrating their enduring popularity.

U-Know Yunho, in his 23rd year since debut, held his first solo concert last month.

He unveiled new tracks alongside the solo songs he has consistently released throughout his career with TVXQ.

[Akimi / Fan of U-Know Yunho for 14 years: He has a upright character, always thinks of his fans, and works hard with all his heart and soul.]

[Lee Ji-hyun / Fan of U-Know Yunho for 22 years: He continues to grow, constantly tries to show new things, and you can feel his sincere dedication to his work.]

The group BIGBANG is also set to kick off their 20th-anniversary debut concerts starting on the 21st.

The number of such "long-lasting idols" continuing their activities for over 15 years is steadily growing, with a notable return of second- and third-generation idols who debuted in the early 2000s.

Analysts suggest this phenomenon is driven by a combination of fans' memories and nostalgia, along with the synergy generated by group activities.

[Mimi / Pop Music Critic: Because there is a difference in fandom size when promoting as a group, even if each member's individual fandom is quite large, combining them creates an impact greater than the sum of the members...]

Some point out that to achieve a longer lifespan similar to overseas groups that remain active for 30 to 40 years, staying true to the fundamentals is essential.

[Kim Do-heon / Pop Music Critic: Ultimately, to carve the groups' names permanently into the music scene, consistent musical activities and pondering new expressions tailored to the changing history of the group are necessary.]

While idols who enjoyed national popularity in the past have an advantage in long-term activities based on high public awareness, outlooks suggest that groups who debuted in an era of fragmented public tastes may face a different situation.

(Video captured by: Lee Sang-hak, Video edited by: Park Na-young, Video source: JYP Entertainment, SM Entertainment, Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.