Which Boyband Gained Popularity First: BTS or BTOB?

The concept of South Korean boybands has captivated the world for decades. From the early 2000s to the present, a multitude of groups have risen to fame. Among the most prominent are those of the 2nd Generation, including SHINee, Super Junior, Big Bang, and Block B. Each has contributed to the rich tapestry of K-pop culture. To trace the timeline of boyband popularity, we look at the history of BTS and BTOB, two of the most celebrated groups in modern K-pop.

A Brief History of 2nd Generation K-pop

The 2nd Generation of K-pop began in the early to mid-2000s, marked by the emergence of groundbreaking groups like Big Bang and SHINee. These groups set the stage for later generations, and their influence can be seen in subsequent boybands like BTS and BTOB.

Big Bang: Pioneers of Their Generation

Big Bang, one of the earliest 2nd Generation groups, debuted in August 2006 with their debut single “We Belong Together,” which featured Park Bom from 2NE1. As one of the first groups to establish a strong international presence, Big Bang paved the way for subsequent boybands. Their debut came at a time when the K-pop industry was just beginning to make waves globally.

BTS: The Rise of K-pop

Fast forward to June 2013, and the world was introduced to another groundbreaking group: BTS. Unlike Big Bang, BTS had a different trajectory. While Big Bang had already gained popularity and established themselves, BTS’s debut was more modest but with profound implications. BTS’s debut single, “No More Dream,” marked the beginning of a journey that would lead them to become one of the most internationally recognized K-pop groups.

Different Paths to Fame

Both groups enjoyed fame, but their timelines of popularity differed significantly. While Big Bang had already established themselves as a powerful force in the K-pop scene, BTS grew in popularity more gradually. BTS's rise to fame began in 2016 and 2017, especially after the release of their singles like “Mic Drop” and “DNA.”

Peak Popularity of BTS

BTS's peak popularity occurred between 2019 and 2020, a period marked by their global tours, collaboration with international artists, and breaking records in various sectors. The success of BTS led to a shift in the K-pop industry, breaking down barriers and expanding the reach of K-pop beyond its traditional boundaries.

Conclusion

In summary, while Big Bang and BTS both gained fame, they did so at different times. Big Bang’s debut in 2006 and BTS’s debut in 2013 represent two important milestones in the history of K-pop. The trajectory of BTS’s rise to fame and their global impact are a testament to the enduring power of the K-pop industry.

Related Keywords

BTS BTOB Boyz Generation

Additional Resources

For more information on K-pop and related topics, check out some of the following resources:

K-pop History and Culture K-pop Fan Communities K-pop Music Videos on YouTube