EXID is a popular South Korean girl group that has been making waves in the K-pop industry since their debut in 2012. While many fans know their hit songs and stunning performances, there are some fascinating facts about the group that might surprise you. Let’s dive into 10 interesting facts about EXID that you probably didn’t know!
1. The Meaning Behind Their Name
EXID stands for “Exceed in Dreaming.” This name reflects the group’s ambition and desire to go beyond their dreams. Originally, the group was called “WT,” which meant “Who’s That.” However, they changed their name to EXID a few months before their debut. This new name perfectly captures their spirit and determination to succeed in the competitive world of K-pop.
2. A Viral Fancam Changed Their Career
One of the most incredible stories in K-pop history involves EXID’s rise to fame. In 2014, the group released a song called “Up & Down.” At first, the song didn’t do very well on the charts. But everything changed when a fan-recorded video of member Hani performing the song went viral on South Korean social media.
This video, known as a “fancam,” suddenly became extremely popular. It led to a surge in interest in EXID and their song. As a result, “Up & Down” shot back up the music charts, eventually reaching number one. This unexpected turn of events completely transformed EXID’s career, turning them into one of the most talked-about groups in K-pop.
3. EXID’s Unique Formation Story
The story of how EXID came together is quite interesting. In 2011, a music producer named Shinsadong Tiger and AB Entertainment decided to form a new girl group. They scouted several trainees from JYP Entertainment, a big K-pop company.
One trainee named Yuji was the first to join. She then contacted her friends Hani, Haeryung, and Jeonghwa to audition. All three were accepted. Later, Shinsadong Tiger discovered Elly, who was an underground rapper and songwriter. The last member added was Dami, who was already training at AB Entertainment.
However, this original lineup didn’t last. In 2012, Yuji, Dami, and Haeryung left the group. They were replaced by Solji and Hyelin, forming the EXID we know today.
4. Solji’s Unique Journey to EXID
Solji, EXID’s main vocalist and leader, has an unusual backstory. Before joining EXID, she was actually the group’s vocal trainer! Solji had previously been part of a duo called 2NB and had also tried a solo career. When EXID needed new members, Solji was asked to join the group herself. Her powerful vocals and experience have been a great asset to EXID ever since.
5. Elly: The Talented Songwriter
Elly, also known as LE, is not just a rapper in EXID. She’s also a talented songwriter who has written many of EXID’s songs. In fact, Elly has had a part in writing all of EXID’s group songs. Her skills don’t stop there – she has also written songs for other K-pop artists like DIA, Fiestar, and Hyuna. Elly was even Hyuna’s rap mentor at one point!
6. Hani: The Smart and Beautiful Rose
Hani is known for her beauty and talent, but did you know she’s also incredibly smart? She has a high IQ and is often called EXID’s “Brain.” Interestingly, Hani started calling herself EXID’s “Brain and Rose” or just “Rose” in 2013. She thought the rose suited her best because of her beauty. Hani is also very detail-oriented. She takes notes on many things, including what angles make her look best while dancing!
7. EXID’s Unique Fandom Name
Every K-pop group has a special name for their fan club, and EXID’s is quite clever. Their fans are called “LEGGO.” This name comes from the idea of LEGGOs (fans) and EXID being inseparable, just like how Lego blocks stick together. It’s a creative way to show the strong bond between the group and their fans.
8. Jeonghwa: From Child Actress to K-pop Star
Jeonghwa, the youngest member of EXID, actually started her entertainment career as a child actress when she was just 10 years old. She trained for five years at JYP Entertainment as an actress. Jeonghwa’s path to becoming an idol was unexpected. When she and some other trainees were cut from JYP, she was invited to join what would become EXID. Despite not having trained as a singer or dancer, Jeonghwa quickly learned these skills and became an important part of the group.
9. EXID’s Colorful Official Colors
EXID has not one, but three official colors: Pantone 7499c, Pantone 7432c, and Pantone 272c. These colors are used in their official merchandise and often in their stage outfits. Having multiple official colors is quite unique among K-pop groups and adds to EXID’s distinctive identity.
10. The Group’s Comeback After a Hiatus
In May 2019, EXID announced that they would take a break from group activities in Korea. This was because some members were leaving their agency, Banana Culture. However, they continued to be active in Japan, releasing two studio albums there.
But the story doesn’t end there! In September 2022, EXID made an exciting comeback. They released their first independent album called “X” to celebrate their 10th anniversary. This shows how strong their bond is as a group and how much they care about their fans.