In K-pop, it is normal for groups to switch different concepts from time to time. This can be done for numerous reasons, such as wanting to try something new or trying a new sound because their old music was not gaining that much attention. While it sometimes has little to no effect, these six groups saw massive success with the sound change. Want to know who they are? Then keep on reading!
1. Dreamcatcher
Five of the seven members of Dreamcatcher originally debuted in 2014 as MINX under Happyface Entertainment. The group debuted and promoted with a bright, bubbly, and cute concept. However, the K-pop market at the time was full of groups like that, and it was hard for the group to stand out. In 2017, Happyface Entertainment announced the group would re-debut as Dreamcatcher with two new members. Their concept changed drastically; from their cute concept, they adopted a nightmare, dark concept that caused them to stand out from other K-pop groups. They are well-loved internationally, as well as with J-rock fans and rock fans in general.
2. Golden Child
Golden Child debuted in 2017 with a young and fresh concept. Unlike most groups, Golden Child had a bright and cute concept that was usually found in girl groups. Though the concept gained them a sizeable fanbase, they did not build up enough hype to even secure a music show win. In 2019, Golden Child came back with "Wannabe", a darker, trendier, more mature concept that Golden Child never tried until then. The song was a huge hit, earning them their first win.
3. CLC
CLC first debuted with a fun, retro song and adopted a bright, cute concept. Their concepts and songs were able to give them some fans, they were not getting the same hype as other groups around them nor their labelmates. In 2017, CLC came back with "Hobgoblin" with a girl crush concept, as the song had a strong EDM. The group saw more success with edgier, mature, and badass concept.
4. BTS
When BTS first debuted in 2013, they established themselves as a hip-hop focused boy group. At the time, even their vocalists were rapping! Though these concepts did earn them a fanbase, their popularity boomed in 2016 when they adopted a more pop sound with songs like "RUN" and "I Need U", with the latter actually being their first song to have a music show win. Now, BTS is known as the biggest boy group in the world, adopting numerous sounds and genres with each comeback.
5. VIXX
When VIXX first hit the scene, the group had an electronic pop sound that was very bright and boyish. At the time though, numerous big-name groups were making their debuts, such as EXO and B.A.P, and they were not hitting the mark as well as said groups. In 2013, the group came back with "On and On", which was significantly darker compared to their debut song. Sticking with the darker concepts, the boys were able to secure a fanbase and became one of the biggest boy groups in K-pop.
6. EXID
When EXID debuted in 2012, they adopted the trend at the time, sticking with the similar pop sound other groups were putting out. Though they did experiment with R&B at the time, it was not enough for them to gain a fandom. In 2014, EXID made a comeback with "Up & Down", which had a heavy brass and much sexier concept than what they first hard. Though the song was underrated when it was first released, a fan cam of member Hani from a special showcase went viral online. This fancam allowed the song to rise on the charts and ever since then, EXID has stuck with songs with a heavy brass.
