Meet the KARD Members: Profiles, Facts, and More

K-pop sensation KARD has taken the music world by storm with their unique co-ed concept and infectious blend of EDM and dancehall. This four-member group, consisting of J.Seph, BM, Somin, and Jiwoo, has gained a loyal following both in South Korea and internationally since their debut. Their fresh approach to K-pop, combining powerful vocals, dynamic rap, and captivating performances, has set them apart in the industry.

KARD's journey began with the release of their pre-debut project singles, including the hit "Oh NaNa," which showcased their potential as rising stars. Since then, they've continued to make waves with chart-topping tracks like "Hola Hola," "You & Me," and "Bomb Bomb." This article delves into the profiles of KARD members, exploring their roles within the group, their musical style, and the impact they've had on the K-pop scene. We'll also take a closer look at their discography and the unique concept that has made them global ambassadors for K-pop.

The Formation of KARD

DSP Media's Vision

DSP Media, a prominent South Korean music label, had a vision to create something unique in the K-pop industry. They aimed to form a co-ed group that would stand out in a market dominated by traditional boy and girl groups. This innovative approach led to the creation of KARD, a four-member group that would soon become a global ambassador for K-pop.

The concept behind KARD was inspired by playing cards, with each member representing a specific suit or face card. BM was assigned the role of the 'King,' J.Seph became the 'Ace,' Somin took on the 'Black Joker,' and Jiwoo embodied the 'Color Joker.' This distinctive concept set the stage for KARD's journey in the music industry.

Pre-Debut Project Singles

Before their official debut, KARD embarked on an innovative pre-debut project. This strategy involved releasing three project singles, each featuring a 'hidden card' member. The first project single, "Oh NaNa," was released on December 13, 2016, and featured Heo Young-ji as the hidden member. The music video for "Oh NaNa" quickly gained traction, accumulating over 1.25 million views in just three days.

Following the success of their first single, KARD released "Don't Recall" on February 16, 2017. This was followed by an English version of the same song on March 1, showcasing the group's global ambitions. The third and final project single, "Rumor," was released on April 24, 2017. This release was particularly notable as it was a collaboration with LG Electronics, who had selected KARD as their global ambassador for the G6 smartphone.

The pre-debut project proved to be a massive success. "Rumor" charted at number one in 13 countries on iTunes' K-pop charts and ranked high on main iTunes charts in the U.S., Southeast Asia, and Europe. This international recognition set the stage for KARD's official debut.

Official Debut

KARD marked their official debut on July 19, 2017, with the release of their first EP, "Hola Hola." The six-track EP included their previous project singles along with the title track "Hola Hola." The group held their debut showcase at the Ilji Art Hall in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, officially introducing themselves to the K-pop world.

The debut was met with significant success. The "Hola Hola" EP debuted on several Billboard charts, reaching number 3 on World Albums, number 25 on Heatseekers Albums, and number 46 on the Independent Album Chart. The title track "Hola Hola" also entered the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart at number 4, solidifying KARD's position as a rising force in the global K-pop scene.

J.Seph: The Ace of KARD

J.Seph, whose birth name is Kim Tae Hyung, is a vital member of KARD. His role as the 'Ace' in the group's playing card concept highlights his versatility and importance to the team's dynamic. Standing at 178.5 cm (5'10") and weighing 71 kg (156 lbs), J.Seph brings both physical presence and charisma to KARD's performances.

Background and Training

J.Seph's journey to becoming a K-pop idol was marked by dedication and perseverance. He trained under DSP Media for five years before making his debut with KARD. This extensive training period allowed him to hone his skills in rapping, dancing, and vocals, preparing him for the challenges of the K-pop industry. During his time as a trainee, J.Seph and BM were initially planned to debut as a hip-hop duo. However, these plans changed, leading to the formation of KARD as we know it today.

Role in the Group

As a member of KARD, J.Seph takes on the positions of Main Rapper, Lead Dancer, and Sub-Vocalist. His versatility allows him to contribute significantly to the group's unique sound, which blends EDM and dancehall influences. J.Seph's rap skills add an edge to KARD's music, while his dance abilities contribute to their dynamic performances.

J.Seph's card name, the 'Ace,' is particularly fitting. He explained the significance of his role, stating, "The Ace can be lowest that support, it's the highest at sharp." This reflects his ability to adapt and support his teammates when needed, while also standing out with his sharp skills when the moment calls for it. Since the "Ring The Alarm" era, his designated card suit has been spades, further cementing his identity within the group's concept.

Personal Facts

Born on June 21, 1992, J.Seph is a Gemini/Cancer cusp sign. His blood type is O, and his MBTI personality type is ISFP-A. Known for his humor, J.Seph is often considered the funniest member of KARD by his groupmates and fans alike.

J.Seph has shown his talents beyond KARD's activities. He was featured in Rainbow's "Tell Me Tell Me" music video and appeared alongside BM in Rainbow's "Sunshine" MV. Additionally, he and Somin collaborated on an OST for tvN's "Newlywed Diary 2," showcasing his vocal abilities.

In October 2020, J.Seph enlisted for his mandatory military service, serving in the Transport squad of the ROK Army. During his service, he participated in the Korean Army Musical "Meissa's Song" from October 2021 to January 2022, performing alongside other K-pop idols and professional musical actors. He was discharged on April 4, 2022, with the rank of sergeant, marking his return to KARD and the K-pop scene.

BM: The King of KARD

BM, whose real name is Matthew Kim, is a vital member of KARD. As the 'King' in the group's playing card concept, he brings a powerful presence to their performances. Standing at 183 cm (6'0") and weighing 80 kg (176 lbs), BM's physical stature matches his commanding stage presence.

Journey from LA to K-pop

Born on October 20, 1992, in Los Angeles, California, BM's path to K-pop stardom was unexpected. Initially pursuing a degree in Psychology with aspirations of becoming a counselor for kids with drug problems, BM's life took a turn when he participated in a dance competition. His mother, seeing his talent for the first time, signed him up for a "K-pop Star" audition in LA. Despite his initial reluctance due to limited Korean language skills, BM passed the audition and traveled to Korea for further evaluations.

In Korea, BM faced three auditions for the televised "K-pop Star" show, where he was saved all three times by BoA. This experience marked the beginning of his journey in the K-pop industry. BM has expressed gratitude to both BoA and his mother for initiating his entry into this world.

Rap and Dance Skills

BM's role in KARD encompasses Main Dancer, Lead Rapper, and Vocalist positions. His rap skills add a distinctive edge to KARD's music, while his dance abilities contribute significantly to their dynamic performances. BM's talent extends beyond performing; he has also ventured into songwriting and production. For instance, he wrote his rap part for "Bomb Bomb" in just 15 minutes after listening to the track.

His solo works showcase his versatility as an artist. Songs like "BOY2MAN," "Beastmode," "Better Myself," and "Be Mine" highlight his individual style. BM made his solo debut on June 9, 2021, with the single "Broke Me," marking a new chapter in his career.

Solo Activities

Beyond KARD, BM has engaged in various solo activities that have expanded his presence in the entertainment industry. He has been featured in music videos, including AleXa's "Xtra" and has collaborated with other artists, such as Jessi on the song "Put it on ya."

BM has also ventured into television, serving as an MC for the talk show 'After School' and appearing as a guest on variety shows like JTBC's 'Shall We Walk Together' and MBC's 'Video Star.' These appearances have helped showcase his personality and broaden his appeal beyond music.

In the realm of music production, BM has made significant contributions. KARD's second mini-album "Dumb Litty" was produced by BM, demonstrating his skills behind the scenes as well as on stage. This multifaceted approach to his career has solidified BM's position as a versatile and influential figure in the K-pop industry.

Somin: The Black Joker

Somin, whose full name is Jeon So Min, represents the Black Joker in KARD's playing card concept. Born on August 22, 1996, in Seoul, South Korea, Somin has had a diverse journey in the K-pop industry before finding her place in KARD.

Previous Group Experiences

Somin's path to KARD was marked by several experiences in other groups. She first debuted as a member of PURETTY, a South Korean group based in Japan, on September 5, 2012. PURETTY had plans to debut in South Korea as well, but the group disbanded in January 2014 without making their Korean debut.

Following PURETTY's disbandment, Somin participated in KARA Project, a show aimed at finding new members for the girl group KARA. She finished the show in third place but was ultimately eliminated. This experience, however, helped increase her visibility in the industry.

On August 24, 2015, Somin debuted again, this time as the leader of the girl group APRIL. However, her time with APRIL was short-lived. In November 2015, just three months after debut, Somin left the group to pursue other opportunities. This decision, while surprising to fans, allowed Somin to explore new musical directions.

Vocal Abilities

As KARD's main vocalist, Somin's singing skills are a crucial part of the group's sound. Her voice is characterized by a light, fragile tone that adds a unique quality to KARD's music. Somin excels in delivering high notes and airier parts of their songs, showcasing her impressive vocal range.

Her versatility as a vocalist is evident in KARD's discography. From the deeper tones required in songs like "Icky" to the higher ranges in tracks like "You In Me," Somin adapts her voice to fit various styles. This adaptability, combined with her distinctive tone, makes her an invaluable asset to KARD's musical identity.

Variety Show Appearances

Beyond her musical career, Somin has made a name for herself in the world of Korean variety shows. Her appearances have helped to showcase her personality and expand her fanbase beyond KARD's music.

One of her most notable variety show roles was as a regular cast member on the popular South Korean show "Running Man." Somin joined the cast in April 2017 and remained a part of the show until October 2023, gaining international recognition through her appearances.

Somin has also been a regular member on other variety shows, including both seasons of "Sixth Sense" in 2020 and 2021. These appearances have allowed her to display her wit, humor, and charm to a wider audience.

Jiwoo: The Color Joker

Jeon Ji Woo, known by her stage name Jiwoo, is the youngest member of KARD. Born on October 4, 1996, she holds the positions of Main Dancer, Lead Vocalist, and Sub-Rapper within the group. Standing at 165 cm (5'5") and weighing 47 kg (103 lbs), Jiwoo brings a vibrant energy to KARD's performances.

Dancing Queen

Jiwoo's role as the main dancer of KARD is well-deserved. She is known for her exceptional flexibility, which sets her apart from her groupmates. Her dance skills are characterized by a unique blend of power and grace, creating a style that is both eye-catching and technically impressive. Jiwoo's dance abilities contribute significantly to KARD's dynamic performances, adding a layer of visual appeal to their already captivating music.

Vocal and Rap Contributions

As a lead vocalist and sub-rapper, Jiwoo plays a crucial role in shaping KARD's sound. Her versatility allows her to seamlessly transition between singing and rapping, adding depth to the group's musical offerings. Jiwoo's contributions can be heard in various KARD tracks, where her vocals and rap parts complement the group's EDM and dancehall-influenced style.

Jiwoo's talent extends beyond KARD's regular activities. She and fellow member Somin were featured in SUPER JUNIOR's "Lo Siento" Korean version, showcasing her ability to collaborate with other established artists in the K-pop industry.

Personality and Hobbies

Despite her sometimes cold appearance, Jiwoo is known for her humor within the group. She has a talent for making others laugh, even demonstrating a Doraemon expression that highlights her playful side. This contrast between her stage presence and off-stage personality adds to her charm as an idol.

Before joining KARD, Jiwoo had an interesting musical background. She majored in Clarinet for six years, showcasing her diverse musical interests. This classical training likely contributes to her understanding of music theory and performance, enhancing her abilities as a K-pop idol.

Jiwoo's journey to KARD was unique. She initially trained under FNC Entertainment for five years, which explains her close relationships with SF9 members and other FNC artists. However, her path led her to DSP Media, where she trained for just two months before debuting with KARD. This quick transition speaks to her natural talent and adaptability.

In terms of hobbies, Jiwoo enjoys listening to music and nail art. These interests reflect her artistic nature both on and off stage. Her passion for music extends beyond performance, as she finds joy in exploring various genres and styles in her free time.

KARD's Unique Co-Ed Concept

KARD stands out in the K-pop industry with their distinctive co-ed concept, featuring two male and two female members. This unique lineup sets them apart from traditional all-male or all-female groups, making them a rarity in the South Korean music scene.

Rarity in K-pop

Co-ed groups are uncommon in K-pop, with KARD being one of the most successful mixed-gender acts to date. Their unique makeup allows them to showcase a diverse range of vocal tones and sounds, distinguishing them from other K-pop groups. This rarity has contributed to their popularity, especially among international fans who appreciate the fresh approach to the genre.

Advantages and Challenges

The co-ed concept offers KARD several advantages. According to Jiwoo, one of the group's female vocalists, their diverse lineup allows them to present different charms, showcasing performances with just girls, just boys, as well as mixed combinations. This versatility enables KARD to create a more dynamic and varied musical experience for their audience.

However, the co-ed concept also presents challenges. Critics point out that mixed-gender groups often struggle to form a solid and loyal fan base, which is crucial for success in the K-pop industry. Pop music critic Seo Jeong Min-gap explained that it's difficult for co-ed groups to attract more female fans than boy groups or more male followers than girl groups.

Another challenge lies in marketing and promotion strategies. Companies find it demanding to decide which gender of fans to target, as the answer may not be straightforward. Jung Min Jae, another critic, noted that without a specific target audience, co-ed groups might struggle to rise to stardom despite their unique charm.

Fan Reception

Despite the challenges, KARD has managed to garner a dedicated fanbase, particularly internationally. The group's unique concept has resonated with many fans who appreciate their fresh approach to K-pop. Their mini-albums have consistently reached the top 10 on the Gaon Album Chart, indicating a strong following.

However, KARD faces a disparity between their international and domestic popularity. The members are aware that they have comparatively fewer activities and achievements in South Korea. J.Seph acknowledged the difficulty of breaking into the Korean market, stating, "We've thought very hard about how we could make it work, but it's not easy".

Despite these challenges, KARD remains optimistic about their future. They view their situation as "homework" to work harder and earn the recognition they desire in their home country while maintaining their strong international fanbase.

Musical Style and Discography

KARD's unique sound sets them apart in the K-pop industry. Their music is a blend of urban and hip-hop with a Latin American spin, incorporating elements of reggaeton and moombahton. This distinctive style has resonated with international K-pop fans, contributing to their global appeal.

Signature Sound

The group's musical approach has been described as "undeniably trendy," focusing on contemporary house and dancehall vibes. Billboard has noted that their sound seems "pulled directly from Top 40 charts". KARD's style diverges from the typical electropop, hip hop, and EDM trends that dominated the American music market during their pre-debut period.

BM, one of KARD's members, has dubbed moombahton as "a symbol of KARD". This genre, along with their incorporation of tropical house elements, has become a defining feature of their music. The group's ability to blend these styles with K-pop sensibilities has created a fresh and exciting sound that appeals to a wide audience.

Hit Songs and Albums

KARD's discography showcases their musical evolution and growing popularity. Their debut EP, "Hola Hola," released on July 19, 2017, marked their official entry into the K-pop scene. The album debuted at number 3 on both the Gaon Album Chart and Billboard World Albums Chart, demonstrating their immediate impact.

Some of their most notable releases include:

1. "Oh NaNa" - Their first project single, featuring hidden member Heo Young-Ji.

2. "Don't Recall" - Released as their second project single, it peaked at number 22 on the UK Singles Chart.

3. "Bomb Bomb" - This single became the group's fifth top five entry on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart, debuting at number three.

4. "Red Moon" - The title track from their fourth EP, which reached number 8 on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales Chart.

International Recognition

KARD's unique co-ed concept and distinctive sound have garnered them significant international recognition. Their ability to tour throughout North and South America even before releasing their first mini-album is a testament to their global appeal.

The group has embarked on several world tours, including the "Wild Kard Tour" in 2017, which covered cities in Canada, the United States, Mexico, and Brazil. All tickets for this tour were reportedly sold out, highlighting their international popularity.

KARD's success extends beyond live performances. They were selected by LG Electronics as their global ambassador for the G6 smartphone, collaborating on content for their project single "Rumor". This partnership further solidified their status as rising global stars in the K-pop industry.

In recognition of their potential, Billboard selected KARD as one of the Top 5 K-pop artists to watch in 2017. This early acknowledgment of their talent and unique position in the industry has been validated by their continued success and growing fanbase worldwide.

Conclusion

KARD's journey in the K-pop industry showcases their unique position as a successful co-ed group. Their blend of EDM, dancehall, and K-pop elements has resonated with fans worldwide, setting them apart from traditional single-gender groups. The members' diverse talents and backgrounds have contributed to creating a dynamic and versatile musical experience that has captured the attention of international audiences.

Looking ahead, KARD faces both opportunities and challenges. While their global popularity continues to grow, they aim to strengthen their presence in the competitive South Korean market. Their distinctive sound and co-ed concept provide a solid foundation to build upon, potentially inspiring future mixed-gender groups in the industry. As KARD continues to evolve, their impact on the K-pop landscape and their ability to bridge cultural gaps through music remain areas to watch.

FAQS

1. Who are the members of KARD? KARD consists of four members: J.Seph (Kim Taehyung), BM (Matthew Kim), Somin (Jeon Somin), and Jiwoo (Jeon Jiwoo). Each member represents a playing card: J.Seph is the Ace, BM is the King, Somin is the Black Joker, and Jiwoo is the Color Joker.

2. What makes KARD unique in the K-pop industry? KARD stands out as a co-ed group, featuring two male and two female members. This unique lineup is rare in K-pop, allowing them to showcase a diverse range of vocal tones and sounds. Their music blends urban and hip-hop with Latin American influences, incorporating elements of reggaeton and moombahton.

3. When did KARD debut? KARD officially debuted on July 19, 2017, with their first EP "Hola Hola." However, they gained popularity even before their official debut through a series of pre-debut project singles.

4. What are some of KARD's hit songs? Some of KARD's popular tracks include "Oh NaNa," "Don't Recall," "Hola Hola," "Bomb Bomb," and "Red Moon." These songs showcase their unique blend of EDM, dancehall, and K-pop elements.

5. How has KARD's international popularity compared to their domestic success? KARD has gained significant international recognition, with strong followings in North and South America. However, they face challenges in gaining the same level of popularity in South Korea. The members have acknowledged the need to work harder to earn recognition in their home country.

6. What roles do the KARD members play in the group? J.Seph is the Main Rapper, Lead Dancer, and Sub-Vocalist. BM takes on the roles of Main Dancer, Lead Rapper, and Vocalist. Somin is the Main Vocalist, while Jiwoo is the Main Dancer, Lead Vocalist, and Sub-Rapper.

7. Has KARD won any awards? While specific award information wasn't provided in the given context, KARD has achieved notable chart success. Their debut EP "Hola Hola" reached number 3 on both the Gaon Album Chart and Billboard World Albums Chart.

8. What is the concept behind KARD's name? The group's name KARD is inspired by playing cards. Each member represents a specific card: King (BM), Ace (J.Seph), Black Joker (Somin), and Color Joker (Jiwoo).

9. How does KARD engage with their fans? KARD interacts with fans through various channels. BM, for instance, actively communicates with fans online and has even learned fan slang terms like "delulu" to connect better with their audience.

10. What are some individual activities of KARD members? Somin has a YouTube channel where she shares behind-the-scenes footage and beauty routines. BM has been developing his presence in the fashion industry and has expressed interest in furniture design. Jiwoo has worked on editorial projects, taking on roles such as creative director.

These FAQs provide insights into KARD's unique position in the K-pop industry, their musical style, and individual member activities, offering fans a comprehensive overview of the group's journey and characteristics.