SuperM: A Threat to BTS or Just Another Average Group?

So first off, I'm gonna be very straightforward about this. SuperM, formed by K-pop giants S.M. Entertainment, is targeted at the Western market to expand their international reach. BTS, on the other hand, is already a highly recognized group in the west. There's simply no comparison between the two groups in terms of their market presence, achievements, and fan base.

SuperM debuted at the top of the Billboard charts with the song 'Jopping', an achievement that only BTS has managed to replicate. However, should SuperM pose a threat to BTS? In today's competitive K-pop industry, healthy competition is to be expected and celebrated. But can SuperM truly overshadow BTS? That's a question for you to decide. No group is superior to another. There will always be some healthy competition between groups that's K-pop for you.

Also, it's important to note that Korea adheres to hierarchical respect. Three out of the seven members of SuperM are seniors to BTS, so please keep this in mind. No offense.

Let's explore further why SuperM was initially considered a threat to BTS and why they may not live up to expectations.

Was SuperM Supposed to Be a Threat to BTS?

SM Entertainment faced a significant challenge in the late WINGS era when EXO started losing market share to BTS. Considering NCT's popularity, SM saw opportunity in creating a westernized group. Their plan was to harness the fame of popular SM idols to form SuperM. However, the execution didn't quite work out as planned. BTS cannot be outshined, a reality that simply speaks for themselves. BTS is BTS, a phenomenon that transcends musical talent to become a cultural icon.

Why Can't SuperM Even Compare to BTS?

Firstly, let's clarify that no other K-pop groups can be compared to BTS. BTS debuted under a small company, while SM Entertainment, the agency of SuperM, is one of the largest in the industry. Additionally, SuperM members are already part of other successful groups, whereas BTS debuted as rookies. These fundamental differences make direct comparisons meaningless.

A Call for Respect in the K-pop Industry

As a K-pop fan, let's stop comparing these groups. Both BTS and SuperM are good groups, and no group is a threat to the other. Your question feels like you're looking down on them. No offense, of course.

SM's Strategy and Its Criticism

SM's strategy was to mitigate the threat of BTS's success. BTS's victory in numerous Asian and Western awards was a significant concern from a business perspective. SM's actions, such as pulling out popular members from other groups to form SuperM, were seen as a desperate measure. In declaring SuperM the "Avengers of K-pop" before their debut, SM overstepped boundaries. This kind of premature hype can lead to disappointment, especially when results don't meet expectations.

It's also important to acknowledge that SM's actions were not just about music. Their focus on winning awards and manipulating views to increase popularity sheds light on a company culture that values image and performance over substance. This approach has been criticized both within the K-pop community and beyond.

Critique of SM Entertainment

SM Entertainment has faced numerous criticisms, including racial discrimination against non-Korean artists. Unlike YG, which is often seen as more progressive, SM's actions have been viewed as backward in terms of industry standards. The comparison between SM and YG is not favorable, as both are criticized for their approach to talent management and international expansion.

In conclusion, while SuperM may achieve some success, it is unlikely to surpass BTS's influence and popularity. The market and fans will decide their success on their own merit. As for SM Entertainment, their current approach is unwise and may not lead to long-term success. The industry is always evolving, and the only constant is change.