Do You Think SM Will Add More Members to aespa?
The debate surrounds the possibility of adding more members to aespa, a popular K-pop group under SM Entertainment. Some fans argue that introducing additional members would be a sensible move, due to precedents set by other SM groups. However, others believe that the current lineup composition of four members is ideal and should remain unchanged to avoid controversy and disappointment among existing fans.
Historical Precedents: NCT and Red Velvet
While adding more members might seem like a logical step, there are reasons to think twice. For instance, the journey of NCT and Red Velvet offers insights into how similar scenarios played out in the past. Both groups initially started with four members but later expanded their lineups. NCT’s concept, for example, includes the gradual incorporation of new members, which has led to their exponential growth and status as one of the K-pop industry's largest groups.
Red Velvet also demonstrates a similar pattern. The group began with four members in August 2014, but Yeri was added in March 2015. SM Entertainment included Yeri at a later stage due to her age, which meant she could debut once her maturity aligns with the group's performance requirements. This pattern raises the question of whether a similar expansion could be on the horizon for aespa.
The aespa Lineup Today
Currently, aespa comprises four members who have achieved numerous milestones in a relatively short time. Given their success and the group's recent debut, it would be understandable to feel that adding more members might detract from their accomplishments. Some fans contend that the group is currently "settled" with its current lineup and should remain stable to preserve their achievements and fanbase's loyalty.
SM Entertainment’s Lineup Philosophy
SM Entertainment, known for its creative and strategic methods, tends to repeat successful methods with new groups. This was evident when they pursued a trainee, Jisoo, to resemble Eugene of S.E.S., an idol known for her acting and stage presence. Similarly, the reappearance of naevis in the debut MVs of aespa is intriguing and could hint at future plans involving a returned or new member.
As Red Velvet approaches its final active years, there could be a strategic need to identify a successor to maintain popularity and relevance. SM Entertainment is recognized for consistently reinventing itself, suggesting the possibility of a new member joining aespa. Potentially, this new member could debut in 2022 during the group's next comeback.
However, considering SM Entertainment's recent success with aespa, the 'lightning in a bottle' concept, some fans believe that any potential addition might be against the group's current success trajectory. Nonetheless, any changes to the lineup would need to be well-considered and executed to ensure that aespa continues to captivate its fanbase and the K-pop industry at large.
In conclusion, while the possibility of aespa getting a new member cannot be entirely ruled out, the current lineup seems secure and stable, primarily due to historical trends and the group's recent achievements.