Is it Okay to Be a Fan of K-pop Bands You Discovered Later?

Many enthusiasts often ask: 'Is it okay to be a fan of a K-pop band that has been out for a while, but you have only just found out about them?' The answer is an absolute yes! This is a common question for people who dive into the K-pop world and discover bands numerous years after their debut. The joy of K-pop lies in the exploration and enjoyment of music and performances, no matter when you start your journey.

Categories of K-pop Fans

There are two main categories of K-pop fans: old fans and new fans. Old fans are those who have been tracking and supporting a group since their debut, contributing to the group's journey and growth through the years. New fans, on the other hand, are those who join the bandwagon after discovering a group. The beauty of K-pop lies in the fact that both categories welcome each other with open arms, fostering a community where everyone can experience and enjoy the music.

Personal Experience and Insights

This article will explore the experiences of several individuals who stumbled upon K-pop groups later in their careers and how they integrated themselves into these communities. Let's delve into their stories and insights:

My Personal Journey with K-pop

Back in 2011 or 2012, I discovered SNSD after they had already released a couple of albums. Despite joining the group during a more mature phase, I still enjoy their music today. The same applies to groups like VIXX, which I started following in 2016, just a few years after their debut in 2012. These examples illustrate that it's perfectly fine to become a fan later in a band's career. You don't have to track every detail from the beginning; you can simply enjoy and discover what resonates with you.

Common Stories of Discovery

Many fellow K-pop fans share similar stories. For instance, someone didn't start listening to K-pop until 2011, but they instantly fell in love with TVXQ, a legendary group. Similarly, others found themselves listening to groups like Shinhwa, SHINee, Super Junior, and Big Bang, which debuted even before they started their K-pop journey. The common thread is that these fans found ways to catch up, either by watching their live performances, music videos, or even their older variety shows and concerts.

Discovering BTS and Monsta X

The release of Need U in January 2023 marked a significant turning point for many. A fan inquired about whether it was okay to start following BTS after their January release, much like Monsta X, whom they discovered after a year of their debut. To which I responded with a resounding 'yes,' sharing that I had added 64 BTS songs to my collection in the same period, capturing both old and new content.

Encouraging Catch-Up

For those who have discovered a new group and are eager to catch up, there are a few ways to get up to speed:

Watch their old music videos and variety shows. Attend their live concerts or stream a full performance online. Refer to fan communities and articles to learn more about the history and members of the group.

The internet provides a wealth of resources, making it easier than ever to dive into the K-pop world, no matter when you start your journey.

Remember, the true joy of K-pop lies in the discovery and connection with the music, the performances, and the community. Whether you're an old fan or a new one, there's always room to enjoy the magical realm of K-pop.