As fervent devotees of K-pop music understand, global admiration tends to be a BTS and BLACKPINK arena.
However, breaking free from their perceived shadows and carving a niche is the nine-member powerhouse known as EXO.
Armed with extraordinary vocal prowess, dynamic choreography, and a sonic blend that transcends genres, EXO has been silently rewriting the narrative of K-pop success.
Subverting the Norms of K-pop Stardom
Captivating millions worldwide, EXO - composed of Xiumin, Suho, Lay, Baekhyun, Chen, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, and Sehun - has smashed numerous album records, clinched high-profile endorsements, and graced numerous packed arenas. It's an impressive track record that significantly amplified their collective wealth.
The group's celebrated singles, such as "Growl," "Mama," and "Love Me Right," have deeply resonated with fans, further solidifying their reign as the "Kings of K-pop."
Besides, their individual careers have branched out into successful solo music ventures, acting gigs, and more, further enhancing their collective wealth.
The Financial Titans of K-pop
As per the 2022 report in the South China Morning Post, EXO's net worth astonishingly peaks at a billion dollars, a figure that trumps the earnings of popular bands like BTS, BLACKPINK, and TWICE. This revelation is bound to stir conversations within the global K-pop fandom.
The band's prominence and sway in K-pop also unlocked numerous lucrative endorsements spanning the fashion, food, and telecom industries.
Some of the big names they've partnered with include Nature Republic, Skechers, Coca-Cola, SK Telecom, KFC, and Lotte World.
EXO: The Elite Brand Ambassadors
EXO's collaboration with Samsung for the 2014 Summer Youth Olympics in China marked one of their significant brand partnerships.
This successful alliance later spawned an EXO-themed Galaxy S8 that had fans worldwide clamoring for a piece.
Another triumph was their partnership with Skechers, where they promoted the brand's D'Lites 2 Sweet Monster Collection.
This line of shoes, dubbed as "EXO sneakers," quickly became a sensation in the South Korean fashion landscape.
Moreover, as ambassadors for South Korea's tourism in 2018, they played a vital role in promoting their country to the world.
Their influence further spread with partnerships with Kessler, SPAO, The Face Shop, and more.
These widespread collaborations, coupled with their band's activities, led to an exponential surge in their collective net worth.
EXO Members: A Deep Dive into Individual Success
The members of EXO have also amassed commendable individual wealth through successful solo careers and significant brand endorsements.
Their individual wealth varies, with Suho, Baekhyun, and Chanyeol reportedly being the wealthiest.
Suho
The group's leader, has a reported net worth exceeding $18 million, a figure bolstered by his solo music and his role as BVLGARI's brand ambassador.
Baekhyun
Baekhyun with his solo music and brand partnerships with Burberry, Montblanc, and TirTir, has seen his net worth rise to a staggering $17 million.
Chanyeol
With a net worth of $17 million, Chanyeol has skillfully balanced his contributions to EXO's success with his solo activities and acting ventures.
His collaborations with Prada and Acqua Di Parma, and esteemed artists like Far East Movement, Marshmello, and Heize have brought him much recognition and profit.
Other members, too, have substantial individual wealth, thanks to their music, acting careers, and brand endorsements. This includes D.O. ($9 million), Sehun ($11 million), Kai ($13 million), Xiumin ($13 million), and Lay ($15 million).
D.O.
Do Kyung-soo, widely known as D.O., boasts a net worth of approximately $9 million. Besides sharing in EXO's phenomenal success as a vocalist, he has a thriving career as an actor.
Renowned for his roles in South Korean films and dramas, D.O.'s acting prowess has not only earned him accolades but also significantly augmented his earnings. His individual brand endorsements further amplify his financial portfolio.
Chen
Kim Jongdae, popularly known as Chen, boasts an estimated net worth of approximately $8 million. Also, his contributions to the group's music as one of EXO's main vocalists has been instrumental in building his wealth.
Additionally, Chen's solo work in music and his participation in various soundtracks for popular Korean dramas like "It's Okay, That's Love" and "Descendants of the Sun" have also contributed to his financial stature.
Sehun
Sehun holds a significant position as the lead dancer and rapper of the group, leveraging his influence to partner with luxury brands and participate in a range of film and TV dramas, consolidating his net worth to an impressive $11 million.
One can regularly spot Sehun turning heads at Louis Vuitton and Berluti runway shows, or as the brand ambassador of the Italian luxury fashion house, Zegna.
Kai
Another notable member, Kai has amassed wealth not only through his role as EXO's primary dancer but also through his solo activities, amassing a fortune of $13 million.
His chic presence has enticed luxurious fashion houses like Gucci, YSL, and Bobbi Brown, underlining his superstar stature.
Xiumin
An integral part of EXO, Xiumin has also amassed a considerable fortune from his musical career and other activities. Xiumin's net worth is estimated at $13 million, a testament to his value as a prominent vocalist and dancer for EXO.
Beyond his group contributions, ventures into acting for television and musicals have bolstered his financial standing. Additionally, he has worked with renowned brands for endorsements, which is a significant part of his earnings.
Lay
Another prosperous member, Lay has gathered a net worth of $15 million. He gained fame as EXO's lead dancer and vocalist, but his ventures into acting and launching his music agency, Chromosome Entertainment Group, have significantly contributed to his wealth.
The members of EXO have established themselves as not just K-pop icons, but global superstars.
Their influential presence in entertainment is fueled by a combination of musical prowess and lucrative brand partnerships.
The substantial wealth they've amassed, both individually and as a group, underlines their exceptional talent and dedication to their artistry.
