3 Differences Between SuperM & GOT the beat — Why Is Boy Group More Popular?

In an article, cultural critics emphasized the 3 differences between SuperM and GOT the beat, which also influenced their popularity and impact in the K-pop scene.

While the two groups initially received criticism following their debut, SuperM noticeably garnered more popularity.

What could be the reason?

SuperM & GOT the Beat's Age Differences

On January 26, the Korean media outlet Ilgan Sports wrote an article that highlights how SuperM and GOT the beat differ from each other.

As a brief background, both are project groups by SM Entertainment, with the aim of building "K-pop Avengers," comprised of strong members from various groups. ISimply put, it's a setup similar to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The two groups appeared as a medium that connects the huge worldview of SM Culture Universe (SMCU) that SM has built up so far.

In 2019, SuperM was introduced, comprised of SHINee Taemin, EXO Baekhyun and Kai, NCT 127 Taeyong and Mark as well as WayV's Lucas and Ten.

Although Taemin debuted in 2008, their average age wasn't that high as he's only 29, while the oldest is 30 (Baekhyun), and the youngest is 24 years old (Lucas).

GOT the beat, which debuted in 2022, is formed by singers BoA, Girls' Generation Taeyeon and Hyoyeon, Red Velvet Seulgi and Wendy, aespa Karina and Winter.

BoA debuted in 2000 while aespa members were introduced in 2020. Their age gap is 14 years, twice the age gap of SuperM's.

SuperM's 'US' Target vs GOT the beat 'Korea' Focus

Another difference they have is the target of their releases. When SuperM debuted, they held a showcase at Capital Records Tower and achieved great results by topping the "Billboard 200" with their debut album.

On top of the support of domestic fans, SuperM aimed its group's expansion in the global market by appearing in various U.S. programs, such as ABC's "Good Morning America" and "The Late Late Show With James Corden."

However, GOT the beat only strengthened their impact, particularly in Korea, without special activities overseas. While both their debut and comeback were held through the SMTOWN LIVE concert, broadcasted around the world, the unit focused on face-to-face promotions in the country.

To maximize their fame, cultural critic Kim Heon Sik suggested:

"It would be good for the two teams to work together at home and abroad."

'Performance Strength' SuperM vs. 'Singing Power Strength' GOT The Beat

Last but not least, SuperM focuses on showcasing strength in performance, rather than in singing.

In particular, the group is mostly comprised of members who are the main dancers of their respective groups, while Baekhyun was added as the main vocalist.

SuperM is a "performance"-oriented group, and their complex choreography is the first to stand out in dance genre music, such as "Jopping," "Tiger Inside" and "One."

In contrast, GOT the beat is comprised of members who emphasize singing ability more than SuperM.

All members are good performers, but their songs mostly feature impressive high notes, rather than choreography

Ha Jae Geun, a cultural critic, said:

"SuperM seems to have the intention to create a group to appeal to K-pop fandom formed overseas.

Meanwhile, GOT the Beat shows its intention to lead the girl crush craze by gathering 'sisters' who are role models for young women."

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Written by Eunice Dawson.