8 K-Pop Sub-Units So Brilliant That We Want More

In case you’ve never heard of the concept, a sub-unit is a smaller group – a duo, trio, or more – of idols from an existing group that produce music and content together. Sub-units allow the members to branch out from their usual image and explore more sides of their artistry, so they’re an essential part of K-pop. Here are just some of the best sub-units from different groups, and they’re all so awesome that we want more!

1. Red Velvet’s Irene & Seulgi

Red Velvet’s eldest members Irene and Seulgi took over the internet when they joined forces to release their first mini album, and “Monster” is undoubtedly their masterpiece. It’s cool and hip with a little spooky twist, and the choreography is totally enthralling. This is a duo for the ages!

2. SEVENTEEN’s BSS (BooSeokSoon)

Named for the three members of this sub-unit (SEVENTEEN’s Seungkwan, DK, and Hoshi), this trio is not only made up of amazing musicians, but also comedy geniuses! So far there’s only been one song released from BooSeokSoon, but hopefully there’s more on the way. SEVENTEEN does a lot of sub-unit content, so keep an eye out!

3. WJSN THE BLACK

WJSN’s second sub-unit, THE BLACK, is made up of four members and focuses on a more smooth, sultry style. “Easy” is their first title track, but the beat had listeners hooked right from the beginning. Fans are definitely looking forward to hearing more from this sub-unit in the future!

4. EXO-CBX

EXO-CBX is the first of two EXO sub-units, debuting in 2016. All three members, Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin, are primarily singers in EXO, meaning that the vocals are on point across their releases. However, the members also stepped up to the challenge by taking on rap lines, and they totally slayed!

5. Oh!GG

While it’s been a few years since Oh!GG’s last release, fans are still hoping for more. Comprised of five members of the legendary girl group Girls’ Generation, they’ve brought all of the nostalgia of the 2000s into the 2020s with class and style. “Lil’ Touch” is a bop, and fans eagerly await their next release!

6. Stray Kids’ 3RACHA

Made up of Stray Kids’ main three self-producing members, 3RACHA focuses on rap-heavy songs that lean into Stray Kids’ hip hop side. They’ve been making music together since before Stray Kids debuted, so they’ve got the sub-unit on lock. If you love a hip hop-inspired sound, this is the unit for you!

7. OH MY GIRL BANHANA

OH MY GIRL BANHANA has an unapologetically sweet, bubblegum sound that’s getting harder and harder to find in K-pop, so fans are definitely keen to see more from the sub-unit of Oh My Girl. “Banana allergy monkey” is cute and comedic, with an almost video game-esque sound. It’s unique, that’s for sure!

8. JJ Project

GOT7’s first sub-unit, JJ Project is a duo made up of GOT7’s JB and Jinyoung. The two had previously worked together prior to the group’s debut, so it makes sense that their album “Verse #2” with the title track “Tomorrow, Today” has a distinctly calming, nostalgic feel. Another iconic duo that fans can’t wait to hear more from!

What’s your favorite K-pop sub-unit? Tell us in the comments below!