Super Junior, also known as SJ or SuJu, is one of the most popular and long-lasting K-pop boy groups. They have been making music and entertaining fans for almost two decades. Let’s dive into some fascinating facts about this iconic group that you might not know!
1. A Group with Many Members
Super Junior started with 12 members in 2005, which was unusual for K-pop groups at that time. Most groups had fewer members. In 2006, they added another member, Kyuhyun, making them a 13-member group. This large number of members allowed them to create sub-units and try different music styles.
2. The Meaning Behind Their Name
The name “Super Junior” has an interesting story. When the group first formed, they were called “Super Junior 05.” The plan was to change members every year, like “Super Junior 06,” “Super Junior 07,” and so on. However, fans loved the original members so much that the company decided to keep them together. They dropped the “05” and became simply “Super Junior.”
3. Pioneers of Sub-units in K-pop
Super Junior introduced the concept of sub-units to K-pop. Sub-units are smaller groups made from members of the main group. They created several sub-units like Super Junior-K.R.Y, Super Junior-T, and Super Junior-M. Each sub-unit focused on different music styles, allowing members to showcase their unique talents.
4. Breaking into the Chinese Market
Super Junior was one of the first K-pop groups to become popular in China. They formed a sub-unit called Super Junior-M, which included members who could speak Chinese. This helped them connect with Chinese fans and paved the way for other K-pop groups to enter the Chinese market.
5. The “Sorry Sorry” Phenomenon
In 2009, Super Junior released the song “Sorry Sorry.” This song became a massive hit not just in Korea, but around the world. The dance for “Sorry Sorry” was so catchy that people everywhere were copying it. It helped spread K-pop’s popularity globally and is still remembered as one of the most iconic K-pop songs.
6. Multi-talented Members
The members of Super Junior are not just singers and dancers. Many of them have successful careers in other areas of entertainment. Some are actors in TV dramas and movies, while others are hosts on popular TV shows. This versatility has helped them stay popular even after many years in the industry.
7. Breaking Records in Saudi Arabia
In 2019, Super Junior made history by becoming the first K-pop group to hold a solo concert in Saudi Arabia. This was a big deal because it showed how K-pop’s popularity had spread to new parts of the world. The concert was a huge success and opened doors for more K-pop acts to perform in the Middle East.
8. A Group That Keeps Going
Super Junior has been active for over 15 years, which is a very long time in the K-pop world. Many groups break up after a few years, but Super Junior has stayed together. They’ve overcome challenges like members leaving and taking breaks for military service. Their long-lasting career is a testament to their strong bond and dedicated fanbase.
9. Unique Fandom Name
Super Junior’s fans are called E.L.F., which stands for “Ever Lasting Friends.” This name shows the close relationship between the group and their fans. E.L.F.s are known for being very loyal and supportive, helping Super Junior stay popular for so many years.
10. Experimenting with Different Music Styles
Over the years, Super Junior has tried many different types of music. They’ve done pop, rock, R&B, and even trot (a traditional Korean music style). In recent years, they’ve become known for their Latin-inspired pop songs, which have been very popular. This willingness to try new things has kept their music fresh and exciting.
