In the K-pop community, it is a common notion that most groups face their most significant hurdle in their 7th year: to continue or disband. Therefore, it is a magical feat for any group to survive this cutthroat industry for double that time. Legendary girl group Girls’ Generation has approached their 14th year anniversary, and it comes with a special gift for SONEs everywhere.
Reports have been confirmed that a complete appearance by the group has been set, wiping off rumors of official disbandment. They are to appear as guests for the tvN variety show “Yoo Quiz on the Block”, hosted by Yoo Jaesuk. Although it is for the celebration of the group’s 14 years in K-pop, the shooting is expected to be delayed as there has been a staff member that tested positive for COVID-19.
The girls’ last release with a full line-up was their album “Holiday Night” back in 2017, with the double-singles “All Night” and “Holiday”. This album was released in celebration of their decade-long run as one of the leaders of the Hallyu Wave.
Let’s bring it back to 1:40
Girls’ Generation (소녀시대; commonly shortened to SNSD) is originally a 9-member K-pop girl group from one of the biggest entertainment agencies in South Korea—SM Entertainment. They were made as an answer to the agency’s mutually successful boy group, Super Junior. The girls debuted with the single “Into the New World”, unknowingly starting their legacy as one of the most influential figures of the music industry.
It was two years after their debut that the group rose to prominence with their hit song “Gee”. The track catapulted SNSD into the mainstream and earned them the title “Nation’s Girl Group”. Its catchy tune that spoke of hesitant young love and addicting choreography was the trademark of this viral sensation. It even gave way to the fashion trend of colorful skinny jeans and has been covered by K-pop fans and succeeding K-pop groups until this day.
Girls’ Generation became a global phenomenon with hit songs after hit songs every comeback. Serving as an icon of 2nd Generation K-pop when the Hallyu Wave was at its peak, the group was joined by K-pop’s biggest acts such as 2NE1, Super Junior, Big Bang, 2PM and Wonder Girls.
Girls, bring the boys out
The group debuted in a time when the K-pop industry was predominantly male. With their viral hit “Gee”, SNSD was able to shift the public’s focus back into girl groups. Their songs signify the purity, charm and power of femininity, continuously releasing music that most people characterize as girly.
If there are artists dubbed as the “idol of idols”, Girls’ Generation is dubbed as the idol girl group of idol girl groups. Succeeding girl groups look up to them as inspiration for bringing femininity to the forefront, especially those that follow the same concepts as they did in their younger years.
Their songs still get covered to this day. Their music seems to have that timeless charm that people can’t help but love. This is reminiscent of their senior girl group from the 1st Generation K-pop, S.E.S. The older group was also formed as the antithesis to the K-pop boy groups that dominated the 90s.
My angels and my girls
The 8-member team has been busy with their own solo careers for 4 years, especially now that they belong to different agencies. Despite this, they are often seen supporting each other’s endeavors through social media.
Just last month, SNSD leader Taeyeon released the music video for her single “Weekend”. She is also one of the main hosts for tvN variety show “Amazing Saturday – DoReMi Market” alongside labelmate, SHINee’s Key.
The group’s main dancer and rapper Hyoyeon is also gearing up for a comeback as DJ HYO this August 9 with her fifth single “Second”. She will be collaborating with indie-pop artist BIBI for this summer dance-pop release.
Truly, a lot of their fans are eager to see the legendary queens together for their 14th anniversary. We’ve been waiting a long time for your return, Girls’ Generation!
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