K-Pop Groups That Would Have Been More Popular Without Scandals And Other Negative Factors, According To Netizens

Unfortunately, a K-Pop group’s popularity is based on more than just their talents and skills. Usually, several factors can affect a group’s popularity, including scandals, lawsuits, or company mistreatment.

In a recent forum post, netizens discussed several groups they believed could have been more popular without the unfair conditions they existed under or suffered.

1. B.A.P

B.A.P were a rising group that set many first for K-Pop group before their lawsuit with TS Entertainment over mistreatment and financial issues.

Some also believe that former member Himchan‘s initial sexual assault case cast a negative light on the other members as they pursued solo activities.

2. AB6IX

Just a year after AB6IX‘s debut, former member and leader Lim Youngmin was caught drinking and driving. Many believe this scandal, so close to their debut, affected their popularity growth.

3. T-ARA

T-ARA were extremely popular and seen as competition to Girls’ Generation before the now-disputed bullying scandal ruined their public reputation.

4. PENTAGON

While it is not considered a scandal by many, former member DAWN‘s departure related to his relationship with HyunA is believed to have negatively affected the group’s image and their rising popularity following “Shine.” Fans also believe CUBE Entertainment did not do enough for the group.

5. iKON

Many consider B.I‘s departure from iKON as something that affected the group’s sound and popularity.

6. MOMOLAND

MOMOLAND saw an increase in popularity with the release of “Bboom Bboom.” Still, a combination of factors, including MLD Entertainment’s mismanagement and rumors of disrespecting BTS, is what many believe led to their disbandment.

7. FIFTY FIFTY

FIFTY FIFTY were set to have a massive popularity burst, including American promotions, before the lawsuit, resulting in only Keena remaining a group member.

8. X1

As a result of the Mnet rigging scandal, X1, the winning group from Produce X 101, were disbanded right after their extremely successful first release.

9. BOYFRIEND

BOYFRIEND (now known as BF) debuted under Starship Entertainment in 2011, and many believe the company’s decision to promote them heavily in Japan led to their popularity stagnating.

10. TVXQ/JYJ

While the lawsuit-related departures of Jaejoong, Junsu, and Yoochun were over a decade ago, some still wonder how popular TVXQ could have become as five. The three artists reformed as JYJ but endured an alleged blacklisting that only recently ended.

11. MONSTA X

Amid MONSTA X‘s rising international popularity, ex-member Wonho‘s departure from the group due to now-disproven allegations is seen as something that negatively impacted the group’s growth.