Has NCT Overtaken Seventeen's Korean and Japanese Popularity?
As of my last knowledge update in August 2023, both NCT and Seventeen have enjoyed significant popularity in South Korea and Japan. However, they each have distinct strengths in their fan bases and music styles. NCT, with its diverse sub-units and concept of an ever-expanding group, has garnered a strong international following and made notable strides in various markets, including Japan. Their unique approach and frequent comebacks have kept them in the spotlight. On the other hand, Seventeen is renowned for its strong performance skills, self-producing capabilities, and cohesive group dynamics, earning them a dedicated fan base, particularly in Korea.
NCT's Ascendancy in Popularity
Recently, NCT Dream's album “Hot Sauce” and its title track have been breaking records, with an impressive sales figure of over 2.5 million, not including its associated RPG, which has sold nearly a million copies. These achievements indicate a significant shift in the competitiveness of the group. According to recent statistics, NCT is gradually taking over the Korean market, moving towards a position that may rival that of BTS. Meanwhile, Seventeen, while still popular, has seen a different trend. Ever since joining HYBE, their sales have not improved, while NCT has made tremendous gains in sales and popularity.
The Korean Market vs. Japan
It is important to note that NCT's breakout in the Korean market, as evidenced by the success of NCT Dream, contrasts with Seventeen's continued success in Japan. NCT has yet to make a significant breakthrough in the Japanese market, while Seventeen continues to maintain a strong presence. As of now, this suggests that NCT is more promising in Korea but may still have room for expansion in Japan.
Conclusion and Outlook
While the question of whether NCT has overtaken Seventeen in terms of popularity can be debated, the current data and trends indicate significant movement. NCT's recent success is a clear indicator of their growing competitiveness. However, this does not necessarily mean they have entirely overtaken Seventeen's significance. Factors such as recent comebacks, album sales, and public appearances continue to influence this dynamic. The most current comparisons would be reflected in recent charts, sales figures, and fan engagement metrics.