7 K-Pop Groups Who Split Up and Did Better

In the ever-changing realm of K-pop, disbandments are often viewed as the conclusion of an era. Yet, some groups prove otherwise, with their former members reaching new levels of success after going their separate ways. Today, we delve into the stories of K-pop groups whose breakups became stepping stones for individual members to achieve even greater heights.

1. Wanna One

Formed through the survival show Produce 101 Season 2 in 2017, Wanna One captured hearts with hits like “Energetic” and “Beautiful.” Although the group disbanded in 2019 as planned, many members thrived in solo pursuits.

• Kang Daniel launched a successful solo career, becoming one of the best-selling soloists in South Korea. He also founded his agency, KONNECT Entertainment. However, KONNECT Entertainment closed down after five years.
• Hwang Minhyun transitioned back to his original group, NU’EST, before carving out a career in acting, starring in dramas like Alchemy of Souls.
• Kim Jaehwan, Park Jihoon, and Ha Sungwoon released critically acclaimed solo music, cementing their places in the industry.
• Ong Seong-wu made a comeback with his first mini-album, “LAYERS,” on March 25, 2020.

The success of Wanna One’s alumni highlights how temporary groups can serve as stepping stones for individual stardom.

2. GOT7

After leaving JYP Entertainment in 2021, GOT7 shocked fans by promising to continue as a group despite the members pursuing separate careers. True to their word, they reunited for a self-titled EP in 2022, but it was their solo ventures that gained immense traction:

• Jackson Wang became a global superstar with hit songs like “LMLY” and performances at Coachella.
• Jay B and Jinyoung made waves in music and acting, with Jinyoung starring in acclaimed dramas like Yumi’s Cells.
• BamBam and Youngjae expanded their reach internationally with solo releases, while Mark Tuan gained a solid fanbase in the U.S.

Rather than fading after disbandment, GOT7’s members proved their versatility by succeeding independently.

3. IOI

IOI, a temporary girl group formed through Produce 101 Season 1, disbanded in 2017 after just one year. Yet, its members continue to dominate the K-pop scene:

• Chungha became one of K-pop’s leading soloists with hits like “Gotta Go” and “Snapping.”
• Jeon Somi also achieved solo success under The Black Label, with chart-topping tracks like “DUMB DUMB.”
• Other members, including Sejeong and Mina, found fame in acting, with Sejeong starring in the hit drama Business Proposal.

IOI’s disbandment, rather than being an end, marked the beginning of individual triumphs for its members.

4. 2AM

Initially formed as a sub-unit of JYP Entertainment, 2AM disbanded unofficially in 2015. While the group occasionally reunites for special projects, their members have flourished individually:

• Jo Kwon became a beloved TV personality and theater actor.
• Seulong and Jinwoon pursued acting careers, appearing in numerous dramas.
• Changmin ventured into producing, collaborating with new talent in the industry.

5. H.O.T.

H.O.T., the pioneers of K-pop under SM Entertainment, disbanded in 2001 after a legendary run. Though their split was painful for fans, the members went on to build thriving careers:

• Kangta became a respected solo artist and producer under SM Entertainment.
• Tony An, Jang Woo Hyuk, and Moon Hee Jun succeeded in variety shows and solo music ventures.

6. JBJ

JBJ, a project group born from Produce 101 Season 2, disbanded in 2018 after a short but impactful career. Despite the group’s dissolution, members continued to thrive:

• Kwon Hyun Bin (VIINI) launched a successful solo career, blending music and modeling.
• Kim Dong Han emerged as a soloist with several mini-albums and memorable tracks.
• Other members, like Kim Yong Guk, continued to build steady careers in music and acting.

The story of JBJ underscores the potential for individual success, even when a group’s time together is limited.

7. UNIQ

Although UNIQ never officially disbanded, the group went inactive due to its members focusing on individual activities in South Korea and China. This move paid off handsomely:

• Wang Yibo became one of China’s biggest stars, dominating in acting, music, and variety shows.
• Seungyoun (WOODZ) gained recognition as a versatile solo artist, releasing experimental and chart-topping tracks.