Seventeen, a dynamic South Korean boy band formed by Pledis Entertainment and acquired by HYBE in 2020, has taken the K pop scene by storm with its distinct approach to music and performance.
The band comprises thirteen members, each bringing their flair to the ensemble. The members are divided into three units—vocal, hip-hop, and performance—each specializing in a different aspect of the group’s diverse musical and artistic identity.
Since debuting in 2015 with the mini-album “17 Carat,” Seventeen has consistently demonstrated their artistry and versatility, not just in music but also through engaging music videos and interactive fan events.
Seventeen’s Origins and Evolution
Seventeen has carved a niche in the competitive K pop industry through a unique blend of talent, style, and organization.
Formation History
Seventeen was conceived as a project under Pledis Entertainment, where the initial group of trainees began taking shape years before their official debut. The group became public in 2015 with their first EP, 17 Carat, which positioned them among the notable Korean pop boy groups to watch.
Brand and Identity
Seventeen represents the unity of the group’s 13 members, three sub-units, and audience. With S.Coups at the helm, providing influential leadership, their brand revolves around youthfulness and versatility.
Music and Discography
Their discography is a rich tapestry that includes albums, mini albums, and EPs, with diverse lead singles that often top charts.
Seventeen has consistently pushed the boundaries of vocal music and hip-hop within K pop, from the catchy rhythms of Pretty U to the emotive Don’t Wanna Cry.
Subdivisions of Seventeen
- Vocal Team
- Hip-Hop Team
- Performance Team
Each subdivision specializes in aspects of vocal music, hip-hop, or choreography, bringing a well-rounded performance to their music and live showcases.
Milestones and Achievements
- First music show win in 2016
- Albums sold in millions of copies
- Billboard charting and World Tours
Seventeen’s achievements underscore their global music influence, with milestones including high-profile award wins and numerous sold-out international concerts.
Artistic Contributions and Style
Their artistic style is characterized by self-written and self-produced work, exceptional choreography, and an experimental approach to music that resonates with a broad audience. The group’s active involvement in writing and production has set new precedents in the industry.
Fanbase and Impact
Known affectionately as Carats, the fanbase plays a crucial role in Seventeen’s success, supporting YouTube releases and online events. Their influence has led to prominent live showcases and a significant online presence, which has propelled them to the forefront of the K pop group scene.
Members and Personalities
Seventeen, a self-producing Kpop group, is renowned for its members’ diversity and individuality.
Member and Position
Here is a table describing the members of the K-pop group Seventeen, including each member’s birthdate, MBTI, height, and role in the group, as well as the unit they belong to:
| Member | Birthdate | MBTI | Height | Position | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.Coups | Aug 8, 1995 | ISTP | 5’10” (178 cm) | Leader, Main Rapper | Hip-Hop |
| Jeonghan | Oct 4, 1995 | ISFJ | 5’10” (178 cm) | Lead Vocalist | Vocal |
| Joshua | Dec 30, 1995 | ESTJ | 5’10” (177 cm) | Lead Vocalist | Vocal |
| Jun | Jun 10, 1996 | ESFP | 6’0″ (182 cm) | Lead Dancer, Sub Vocalist | Performance |
| Hoshi | Jun 15, 1996 | INTJ | 5’10” (177 cm) | Main Dancer, Lead Vocalist | Performance |
| Wonwoo | Jul 17, 1996 | INFP | 6’0″ (182 cm) | Lead Rapper | Hip-Hop |
| Woozi | Nov 22, 1996 | INTJ | 5’5″ (166 cm) | Lead Vocalist, Producer | Vocal |
| DK | Feb 18, 1997 | INFP | 5’10” (179 cm) | Main Vocalist | Vocal |
| Mingyu | Apr 6, 1997 | ENTJ | 6’1″ (186 cm) | Lead Rapper, Face of the Group | Hip-Hop |
| The8 | Nov 7, 1997 | INTJ | 5’11” (180 cm) | Lead Dancer, Sub Vocalist | Performance |
| Seungkwan | Jan 16, 1998 | ENTP | 5’8.5″ (174 cm) | Main Vocalist | Vocal |
| Vernon | Feb 18, 1998 | ENTP | 5’10” (178 cm) | Main Rapper, Visual | Hip-Hop |
| Dino | Feb 11, 1999 | ENFJ | 5’8.5″ (174 cm) | Main Dancer, Sub Rapper, Sub Vocalist | Performance |
Seventeen’s 3 Units
- Vocal Unit (Woozi, Jeonghan, Joshua, DK, Seungkwan): This unit consists of members who specialize in delivering powerful vocal performances.
- Hip-Hop Unit (S.Coups, Wonwoo, Mingyu, Vernon): Features members with adept rapping skills and a flair for hip-hop.
- Performance Unit (Hoshi, Jun, The8, Dino): This unit showcases members who excel in dance and choreography.
Individual Endeavors
The members are not confined to group activities; they engage in individual projects that strengthen their artistic versatility.
Some have undertaken roles in writing and production, while others express their talents through playing instruments such as the guitar.
For example, group members have taken inspiration from acts like SHINee, acknowledging their impact on performance styles.
These solo ventures contribute to SEVENTEEN’s multifaceted nature as a group and the members’ artistic expressions.
Seventeen’s Commercial Success
In 2023, the esteemed K-pop ensemble SEVENTEEN from South Korea achieved record-breaking sales, moving an impressive 16.1 million albums and marking the year as their most prosperous.
Accumulating domestic sales of approximately 31.3 million albums throughout their career, SEVENTEEN has cemented their legacy as one of the most triumphant and celebrated K-pop groups in the industry’s annals. Their sales figures for 2023 positioned them at the pinnacle of the Korean music market, outperforming all other artists in album sales for that year.
They have achieved remarkable chart performance throughout their career, selling millions of copies of their albums, including favorites like “An Ode” and “Attacca.”
Their online presence is bolstered by strong YouTube viewership, reflecting their popularity as a Kpop act. Furthermore, their concert tours, such as “Ode to You,” have garnered acclaim, spotlighting their appeal as a live act.
Album Sales and Records
- “An Ode”: The group’s third studio album, “An Ode,” released in 2019, demonstrated their commercial might by selling over a million copies.
- “Attacca”: Following up with “Attacca,” Seventeen continued to impress, breaking their previous album sales records.
- “Your Choice” and “Semicolon”: Both “Your Choice” and “Semicolon” albums have further cemented their status in the music industry. The MBC has widely acknowledged each for its commercial success.
Streaming and Online Presence
- YouTube: Seventeen’s music videos on YouTube have amassed millions of views, reinforcing their status in the digital age.
- K-Pop Category: As a Korean boy band, they are a significant force in the K-Pop genre, with their songs often topping streaming charts.
- Global Audience: The group appeals to a broad range of audiences, including Korean and Japanese markets and a dedicated Korean-American fanbase.
Concert Tours and Performances
- “Ode to You” World Tour: The “Ode to You” world tour highlighted Seventeen’s performance prowess and drew many international fans.
- Global Reach: Their tours demonstrate their appeal as a live act, connecting with audiences worldwide through their dynamic performances.
- Record-Breaking Concerts: Their ability to sell out concerts is a testament to their success on the stage, global influence, and solid fan base.
Cultural Influence
Seventeen, a prominent South Korean boy group, has notably shaped the landscape of K-pop with their dynamic music, international appeal, and versatile engagements with various media.
Influence on Music and Dance
Seventeen has redefined music and dance within K-pop through their intricate choreography and unique compositions.
Each sub-unit—the Hip-Hop Team, Performance Team, and Vocal Unit—adds flavor to the group’s sound.
Their innovative approach is exemplified in tracks that blend Korean and Japanese influences.
Notable for their synchronized dance routines, they’ve significantly contributed to the genre, inspiring fans and artists globally.
- Innovative Choreography:
- Complex formations
- Synchronized movements
- Multicultural Compositions:
- Integration of Korean and Japanese styles
- Versatile sound across units
Global Reach and Diversity
Seventeen’s cultural impact extends beyond South Korea, reaching a diverse global audience.
They’ve amassed fans across Asia and in Western countries, attributable to their Korean-American members’ influence and relatability.
Their global tours and participation in international music events showcase the universal appeal of their music and message.
- International Tours
- Extensive reach across continents
- Cultural Representation
- A blend of Korean, Japanese, and Western influences
Interaction with Media and Sports
Their presence in the media is multifaceted, engaging with outlets like MBC and participating in various sports events.
They’ve been featured on music shows, cementing their status in the industry, and the members often appear in sporting events, showcasing their athletic abilities and bolstering their public personas.
- Media Appearances
- Music shows on major channels like MBC
- Variety programming involving athletic challenges
- Sports Involvement
- Participation in idol athletic championships
- Display of sportsmanship and teamwork
Discography
Seventeen’s discography reflects their evolution as a dynamic force in the K-pop industry. Their body of work encompasses an array of studio albums, extended plays, and eye-catching music videos that resonate with fans across the globe.
The following sub-sections will detail Seventeen’s musical releases, from their full-length albums to chart-topping singles, and an overview of their chart performance.
Studio Albums and EPs
- Studio Albums:
- Love & Letter (Apr 25, 2016)
- Teen, Age (Nov 6, 2017)
- An Ode (Sep 16, 2019)
- Face the Sun (Expected May 27, 2022)
- EPs and Mini Albums:
- 17 Carat (1st Mini Album)
- Boys Be (2nd Mini Album)
- Going Seventeen (3rd Mini Album)
- Al1 (4th Mini Album)
- Director’s Cut (Special Album)
- You Make My Day (5th Mini Album)
- You Made My Dawn (6th Mini Album)
- Learn more about their discography.
Among these, “Teen, Age” and “Director’s Cut” are noteworthy for including fan-favorite tracks that showcase the group’s artistic growth.
Popular Singles and Music Videos
Seventeen has released numerous singles that have captured audiences’ attention worldwide with innovative music videos.
Some highlights include:
- “Adore U” (Debut title track)
- “Home” (Lead single from You Made My Dawn)
- “Hit” (Digital single)
- “Happy Ending” (Japanese release)
Their singles consistently garner millions of views, reflecting their popularity and the high anticipation for each release.
Chart Performance
Seventeen’s albums and singles have performed impressively on various music charts. A few significant achievements include:
- Teen, Age charting on the Billboard World Albums chart.
- You Make My Day further solidifies their status with solid sales numbers.
- The single “Home” earned top positions in South Korean music charts.
Success on the charts is a testament to Seventeen’s impact on the global music scene and the steadfast devotion of their fanbase, known as ‘Carats.’
Sub-Units and Collateral Projects
SEVENTEEN, a prominent K-pop group, is recognized for its unique approach to their music and performance. They often showcase this through their specialized sub-units, namely the Hip-Hop, Performance, and Vocal Units. Each sub-unit contributes a distinctive flavor to the group’s overall discography.
In addition, SEVENTEEN has diversified their undertakings with various collateral projects, including special albums like “Semicolon” and contributions to the show “Seventeen TV.”
BooSeokSoon Sub-Unit
- Members: Seungkwan, DK, and Hoshi
- Music Releases: Digital single “Just do it”
BooSeokSoon, known by the acronym BSS, is a sub-unit within SEVENTEEN consisting of members Seungkwan, DK, and Hoshi. This unit is celebrated for showcasing the group’s playful and energetic side, contrasting the more nuanced performances of other units.
In particular, their digital single “Just do it” has contributed significantly to the group’s diversity in musical expression.
Special Albums and Collaborations
- Highlighted Works:
- “Semicolon”: An extended play featuring all members
- “Director’s Cut”: A repackaged album offering a nuanced sound
SEVENTEEN’s discography includes special albums and collaborations across various styles and concepts.
“Semicolon” is noteworthy for its thematic depth and group cohesion. It features all members in an extended play that resonates with fans.
The album “Director’s Cut” also stands out as a significant repackage work that provides a creative expanse for the group to explore more profound music and imagery.
These projects underline SEVENTEEN’s versatility and ability to engage with audiences through various artistic ventures.
Fandom and Social Impact
The bond between the K-Pop group Seventeen and their admirers is dynamic, demonstrating significant cultural and economic influences. This section explores how Seventeen’s dedicated fanbase, Carats, engages with the band through various activities and the impact of branding endeavors on the group’s image and revenue.
Fan Engagements and Activities
- Live and Online Events: Seventeen has cultivated a close-knit community through consistent fan interactions. They host fan meetings and live showcases, allowing for intimate experiences reinforcing fan loyalty. Additionally, Seventeen connects with global supporters through their online show, ‘GOING SEVENTEEN,’ fostering a sense of inclusion among the Carats regardless of geographic location.
- Social Media: The group actively utilizes social media platforms to engage with Carats, creating a two-way conversation between the artists and fans. This digital rapport enhances the band’s charm and accessibility, enhancing their global appeal.
Merchandising and Brand Partnerships
- Branded Merchandise: Seventeen’s branding efforts extend to an array of merchandise that resonates with Carats. From clothing lines to lightsticks, each item is not just a product but a token of membership in the Seventeen community.
- Collaborations: The synergy between Seventeen and various brands showcases the K-Pop industry’s growing influence on mainstream markets. These partnerships offer Carats exclusive content and products while elevating Seventeen’s profile across consumer demographics.
Future Directions and Legacy
SEVENTEEN stands as a dynamic force in the ever-evolving landscape of K-Pop, showcasing an impressive fusion of creativity and market savvy that garners them domestic acclaim and international fame.
Their story—marked by consistent chart performances and a signature blend of hip-hop, vocal excellence, and intricately designed choreography—exemplifies innovation and influence within the music industry.
This section delves into how SEVENTEEN navigates future directions while cementing its legacy.
Sustaining Popularity and Relevance
SEVENTEEN continues prioritizing their Korean roots while embracing a global approach to stay relevant in the Music scene. Their strategy includes:
- Releasing chart-topping albums that reflect current trends and resonate with a broad audience
- Engaging with fans through diverse platforms, ensuring a robust presence in the digital landscape
Their sustained relevance is a testament to their adaptability and keen understanding of the Boy Group phenomenon, keeping them atop various Charts and in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Innovation and Artistic Growth
Innovation has been synonymous with SEVENTEEN’s work ethic, as they actively participate in their music’s Writing and Production processes. Their commitment to pushing creative boundaries includes the following:
- Experimental Choreography: An incorporation of varying dance styles in their Performance
- Musical Diversity: Exploring different genres within K pop, including branching into Hip-Hop and Vocal compositions
These areas of growth not only highlight their versatility but also showcase an earnest drive to evolve artistically.
Mentoring and Influence on New Artists
As esteemed music community members, SEVENTEEN extends their legacy through mentorship. Their influence is evident as they:
- Cultivate a new generation of Trainees, imparting knowledge about artistry and the rigors of the industry
- Inspire upcoming Boy Groups with their professionalism and dedication to high-caliber Performance
SEVENTEEN’s communal approach reinforces their commitment to the future of K pop and its enduring impact.
Additional Facts
This section provides a glimpse into Seventeen’s accolades and some lesser-known information. In the following subsections, readers will discover the group’s achievements in the music industry and exciting trivia that adds depth to their illustrious career.
Awards and Recognitions
Seventeen has a commendable list of accolades that showcase their impact on the K-pop scene. They have:
- They received several awards for their album, Boys Be, featuring tracks that resonated significantly with their fanbase upon release.
- ‘Pretty U’ and ‘Very Nice’ have each earned award nominations and wins, confirming the group’s talent and appeal.
- Seen albums ‘Al1’ and ‘Going Seventeen’ charting impressively on both domestic and international charts, including Billboard’s.
Their continuous presence on music charts and recognition from music award shows underlines their global influence.
Trivia
Seventeen not only shines musically but also captivates fans with their unique personal details and group traits:
- Members’ birthdays, heights, weights, and blood types are often points of interest among their fan community.
- Seventeen TV showed fans an intimate look at the members’ trainee days, offering a glimpse into their growth and development.
The group’s varied backgrounds and personal attributes contribute to their relatability and the diversity within their music and performances.
Is Seventeen originally 17 members?
Seventeen, a highly celebrated K-pop group, initially had designs that pointed towards a larger lineup. There is often confusion regarding the number of members in the group due to their name—Seventeen. The band’s member count, logically tied to its nomenclature, suggests that seventeen members should represent the group.
However, the current lineup features thirteen talented idols. During their pre-debut phase, Pledis Entertainment conceptualized Seventeen with more members.
- Subunit Structure: Seventeen was designed with a unique approach. The idea was to form subunits to focus on different musical areas and markets, namely Korea, China, and Japan.
Here’s a quick insight into the initial plan for Seventeen:
- Pre-debut Departures: The journey to their official debut was marked by changes, including potential members leaving the lineup.
- Final Debut Number: In the end, Seventeen debuted with thirteen members.
Interestingly, despite these changes, the group opted to retain the name Seventeen, a decision that has certainly become a trademark in their identity. The original concept of seventeen members is subdivided into three units, along with the idea of representing the collective age of 17, tied to the aspiration of youthfulness and high energy, which is well reflected in the group’s performances.
For more details on Seventeen’s member formation and their journey from pre-debut to becoming K-pop icons, refer to their comprehensive profile and backstory through various fan accounts and articles.
Who in Seventeen can speak English?
The K-pop group Seventeen, known for their self-produced music and vibrant choreography, includes members proficient in English. As the band navigates the global music scene, their proficiency in multiple languages is impressive and essential. Specifically, English-speaking members offer the group an edge in broader international markets.
- Primarily English-speaking Members
- Vernon (Hansol Vernon Chwe)
- Joshua (Joshua Hong)
Vernon, a member of Seventeen’s hip-hop unit, was born in New York and raised in South Korea, which gave him a bilingual upbringing. Similarly, Joshua, who is part of the vocal unit, was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, giving him a strong English language command. Their backgrounds make them the most fluent English speakers in the group, as per the members’ profiles.
- Other Members with English Proficiency
- Woozi (Lee Jihoon)
- Mingyu (Kim Mingyu)
Expanding the circle, other members such as Woozi and Mingyu have also demonstrated their English-speaking abilities. Woozi, although not a native speaker, has been recognized for his reading and comprehension skills.
These are particularly evident when he writes songs containing English lyrics. Fans’ observations in various interactions, such as on Reddit discussion threads, provide insight. Mingyu’s comfort and capability with the language are apparent during fan calls and concerts.
To summarize, while Vernon and Joshua are the leading English communicators within Seventeen, members like Woozi and Mingyu also contribute to the group’s English-speaking dynamic. This capability aids Seventeen in connecting with a wider audience as they continue to leave their mark on the K-pop industry.
Why did Seventeen debut late?
Seventeen debuted later than planned. The reasons for this delay are multifaceted, involving adjustments within the band and strategic decisions by their managing agency.
Here’s a glance at factors that contributed to Seventeen’s delayed debut:
Member changes
Firstly, member changes impacted the timeline. Initially set to debut around the same time as label mates NU’EST, the group faced setbacks when two members, Youngwoon and Yusang, left the agency. This led to a reformation of the group’s lineup.
Pre-debut exposure
Additionally, Pledis Entertainment sought to increase pre-debut exposure. In December, they launched ‘SEVENTEEN TV,’ a pre-debut reality show designed to galvanize fan interest. This move made viewers accustomed to the group and added time to their pre-debut preparations.
Agency’s strategic planning
Moreover, the agency’s strategic planning played a role. Recognizing the competitiveness of the K-pop industry, Pledis aimed to debut a group with a strong foundational fanbase. The delay gave Seventeen more training time to refine their performances, align with K-pop’s stringent standards, and ensure a more impactful entrance into the industry.
These components contributed to Seventeen’s later debut, ultimately forging a path for their successful introduction to the K-pop scene. The group officially debuted on May 26, 2015, with their mini-album, ‘17 Carat‘.
Who is Oldest in Seventeen?
Seventeen comprises thirteen members. The group is known for its vibrant energy and synchronized performances. Within Seventeen, the members are divided into three units: Hip-Hop, Vocal, and Performance, but they also hold individual positions in terms of age hierarchy.
The distinction of being the eldest member in Seventeen goes to S.coups, whose real name is Choi Seungcheol. S.coups was born on August 8, 1995, and his role as the oldest is not just symbolic. As the leader of the entire group and the Hip-Hop unit, his age contributes to his leadership and guidance to the other members.
Below is a brief overview of the age rankings among the members, anchored by S.coups at the top:
Age Ranking of Seventeen Members:
- S.coups (Choi Seungcheol): Born August 8, 1995
- Jeonghan (Yoon Jeonghan): Born October 4, 1995
- Joshua (Joshua Hong): Born December 30, 1995
- Jun (Wen Junhui): Born June 10, 1996
- Hoshi (Kwon Soonyoung): Born June 15, 1996
In addition to their chronological ages, their tenure in the K-pop industry is noteworthy. Debuted in 2015, the group’s members each play significant roles, with the eldest member, S.coups, bearing the added responsibility of group leadership.
These roles showcase individual talents and reflect each member’s experience and maturity to the group’s dynamic.
Why does SEVENTEEN only have 13 members?
In the vibrant landscape of K-pop, the group SEVENTEEN garners attention not just for their dynamic music and performances but also for the peculiarity of their name. Some might wonder how the arithmetic adds up when they realize that SEVENTEEN comprises only 13 members.
Initially, the public perception held that SEVENTEEN would feature 17 members. However, this changed over time due to several factors, including pre-debut lineup shifts.
Instead, the group’s name signifies more than just a headcount: it encapsulates their structure and unity.
- 13 members represent the performing artists themselves.
- 3 units spotlight the team’s organization into vocal, hip-hop, and performance teams.
- 1 team underscores their collective identity as a unified group.
This adds metaphorically to the 17 that names the group, symbolizing how the various parts create a cohesive whole. The members confirmed this meaning in interviews when questioned about their numeric moniker.
For example, the group’s name is tied to their philosophy of unity and teamwork.
- Members: The 13 dedicated artists who train and perform together.
- Units: Subdivisions within the group that allow members to showcase their specialized talents.
- Team: The sum of all parts is a testament to their joint efforts and collaboration.
Further shedding light on Seventeen’s story is the conception that their name also refers to their supposed average age at the time of the group’s inception.
