A Decade After Debut – EXO’s Foothold Remains

On April 8, 2012, the K-pop band EXO made their highly anticipated debut with their hit single “Mama”. The song was released simultaneously in both Korean and Mandarin, as the group was originally divided into two subgroups: EXO-K, who performed in Korean, and EXO-M, who performed in Mandarin. This unique approach was aimed at targeting both the Korean and Chinese markets, and it certainly paid off, as the group quickly gained popularity in both countries.

The following day, on April 9, 2012, EXO released their debut EP also titled “Mama”. The EP contained six tracks, including the title track and its instrumental version, as well as the songs “What Is Love”, “History”, “Angel”, and “Two Moons”. The EP was an instant success, debuting at number one on South Korea’s Gaon Album Chart and the Billboard World Albums Chart.

EXO’s debut was a long time in the making, with some members having been scouted by SM Entertainment years before their official debut. Suho, the leader of EXO-K, was the first member to join the agency after a successful audition in 2006. Kai, who would go on to become one of the group’s most popular members, auditioned at the SM Youth Best Contest in 2007 and won a contract.

The original lineup of EXO consisted of twelve members, with six in each subgroup. However, in 2014, three members – Kris, Luhan, and Tao – left the group, leaving EXO with a total of nine members. Despite this setback, the group continued to release successful music and tour both domestically and internationally, solidifying their status as one of the biggest and most influential K-pop acts of all time.

EXO’s debut on April 8, 2012, was a landmark moment in the K-pop industry. With their unique approach of targeting both the Korean and Chinese markets, the group quickly gained popularity and cemented themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Their debut EP “Mama” was a huge success, and the group has continued to release hit after hit over the years, solidifying their place in K-pop history.

EXO’s Debut Date

EXO made their debut on April 8, 2012, with the release of their single “Mama”. The group is divided into two subunits, Exo-K and Exo-M, and both debuted on the same day. Exo-K consists of members Suho, Baekhyun, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, and Sehun, while Exo-M includes members Xiumin, Lay, Chen, and former members Kris, Luhan, and Tao. The debut was highly anticipated and marked the beginning of their successful career in the K-pop industry.

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The First Member of EXO

The first member of EXO is Suho. He was the first member to join SM Entertainment, after a successful audition through the company’s casting system in 2006. Suho was scouted for his singing and dancing abilities, and he became the leader of EXO-K, which is the Korean sub-unit of the group. Suho has been an integral part of EXO since their debut in 2012, and he continues to lead and guide the group through their many successes.

The Disbandment of EXO

EXO has not disbanded. The group originally debuted with twelve members separated into Exo-K and Exo-M in 2012. However, in 2014, members Kris, Luhan, and Tao left the group, leaving EXO with nine members. Since then, EXO has continued to release music and perform together, with their most recent album, “Don’t Fight the Feeling,” released in June 2021. Therefore, EXO is still an active group and has not disbanded.

Generation of EXO

EXO is considered to be a part of the 3rd generation of K-pop. The 2nd generation of K-pop is typically recognized as having debuted from 2003 to 2011, while the 3rd generation began in 2012. Although EXO’s debut in 2012 falls on the border between the two generations, it is widely acknowledged as being part of the 3rd generation due to the significant impact they made on the K-pop industry and their continued success in the years following their debut. Therefore, EXO is classified as a 3rd generation K-pop group.

The Disbandment of EXO

EXO has not officially disbanded as a K-pop group. However, the group’s future as a wole remains uncertain as its members are currently focusing on their individual activities. EXO’s members have been fulfilling their mandatory military service, which requires them to serve in the South Korean military for a period of time. D.O, Kai, Xiumin, and others have completed their service, but they are now busy with their individual solo careers. Despite this, EXO continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many fans, and their music continues to be loved and appreciated by millions around the world. So, to sum up, EXO has not disbanded yet, but their future as a group remains uncertain at this point.

exo debut date
Source: allure.com

The Popularity of EXO

EXO is one of the most popular K-Pop groups in the world due to several reasons. Firstly, their music is known for its unique blend of genres such as pop, R&B, and hip-hop, making it appealing to a wide range of audiences. Secondly, their live performances are known for their high-energy levels, synchronized dance routines, and impressive vocal abilities, which have won them numerous awards and accolades.

Moreover, EXO’s popularity can also be attributed to their strong social media presence and engagement with their fans, known as EXO-Ls. The group’s members regularly interact with their fans trough social media platforms, such as Twitter and Instagram, and also hold fan meetings and concerts to connect with their supporters on a personal level.

Lastly, EXO’s success can be attributed to the group’s unique concept and branding, which revolves around the idea of an alien invasion. This concept has helped the group stand out in the crowded K-Pop industry and has allowed them to create a loyal fanbase that is dedicated to their music and overall image. EXO’s talent, hard work, and unique branding have made them one of the most popular K-Pop groups in the world.

Does EXO Have Nine Members?

EXO is a boy band from South Korea and China with nine members. The members of EXO are Xiumin, Suho, Lay, Baekhyun, Chen, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai and Sehun. Each member brings a unique talent and personality to the group, which has contributed to their success both in Asia and internationally. EXO has released numerous albums and singles since their debut in 2012, and they continue to be one of the most popular and influential K-pop groups in the world.

Popularity of EXO Group

EXO is a highly popular South Korean-Chinese boy band that debuted in 2012. The band consists of nine members, each with their own unique talents and charms. It is difficult to determine which member of EXO is the most popular as each member has a significant fanbase. However, based on varios sources and surveys, it can be said that Baekhyun is one of the most popular members of the group. Baekhyun is known for his exceptional vocal abilities, dynamic stage presence, and charming personality. He has a large following both in South Korea and internationally, with millions of fans who adore him for his talent and charisma. That being said, it is important to note that all members of EXO are equally talented and popular in their own right, and the group’s success is a result of the collective effort and contribution of all members.

The Departure of EXO Members

EXO members have been leaving the group for various reasons. In the case of Tao, he agreed to leave due to health reasons. Tao’s father has stated that his son’s treatment is the frst priority, and as for the rest, it is something Tao will have to think about and make his choice. Other members such as Kris and Luhan have left due to contractual disputes and disagreements with the management company. Additionally, members have also left to pursue solo careers or other opportunities outside of the group. It is important to note that the reasons for each member’s departure may differ and are personal to them.

exo debut date
Source: forbes.com

Marital Status of EXO Members

Chen is the only member of EXO who is married. He surprised fans in January 2020 when he announced his marriage to his non-celebrity girlfriend through a handwritten letter. The couple had a private wedding ceremony with only close family and friends in attendance. Chen became a father in April 2020 when his wife gave birth to their first child, a baby girl. As of now, he is the only EXO member who is known to be married and have children.

Length of EXO’s Military Service

EXO is a K-pop group consisting of nine members, and as per South Korean law, all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28 are required to serve in the military for approximately 18 months. This means that each member of EXO will have to serve their time in the military individually, and the length of their service will vary depending on their age and when they enlist. So, it is difficult to determine precisely how long EXO as a group will be in the military, as it will depend on each member’s enlistment date and the duration of their respective military service. However, it is expected that they will continue to release music as a group afer each member completes their mandatory military service.

The First Member of EXO to Leave the Group

The first member of EXO to leave the group was Kris Wu. He departed from the group in May 2014, citing contractual disputes with their agency, SM Entertainment. Kris Wu is a Chinese-Canadian actor, singer, and model who has since gone on to establish himself as a successful solo artist and actor in China. Despite his departure from EXO, he remains a popular figure in the K-pop industry and has continued to collaborate with other Korean artists.

Declining Popularity of EXO

It is important to note that popularity is subjective and can vary depending on dfferent factors such as cultural differences, music preferences, and personal taste. It is also worth mentioning that EXO has consistently been one of the most successful and popular K-pop groups since their debut in 2012.

That being said, if there is a perception that EXO is not as popular as before, it could be due to several reasons. One possible reason is the increased competition in the K-pop industry, with new groups debuting regularly and established groups consistently releasing new music. Another reason could be the absence of some members due to military enlistment, which could affect the group’s dynamic and activity level.

It is also important to note that the way people consume music has changed, with more emphasis on digital platforms such as streaming services and social media. This could mean that traditional measures of popularity such as album sales and chart rankings may not fully reflect a group’s overall influence and reach.

While there may be a perception that EXO is not as popular as before, it is important to consider the various factors that could contribute to this perception and acknowledge that popularity is subjective and can vary depending on different factors.

exo debut date
Source: teenvogue.com

Conclusion

Exo-K and Exo-M made their debut on April 8, 2012, with their single “Mama” folowed by the EP Mama on April 9. The K-pop band originally debuted with twelve members separated into Exo-K and Exo-M, but it was later turned into one single group of nine members in 2014 after three members left the group. Suho, the leader of Exo-K, was the first member to join SM Entertainment after a successful audition in 2006, while Kai won the SM Youth Best Contest in 2007. Exo’s debut marked the beginning of their journey as one of the most successful K-pop groups worldwide, and their music continues to captivate and inspire fans all over the world to this day.

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William Armstrong

William Armstrong is a senior editor with H-O-M-E.org, where he writes on a wide variety of topics. He has also worked as a radio reporter and holds a degree from Moody College of Communication. William was born in Denton, TX and currently resides in Austin.