Sub-units, solo work and collaborations

Sub-units let a group show a musical color or member combination that differs from its full-group work. Agencies may build a unit around strengths such as vocals or performance, and larger groups use units to cover more activities at once. How a unit is formed and how long it lasts varies from group to group.

A unit is two or more members of a group promoting separately together, while solo activity is one member releasing music or performing alone. In most cases, neither means leaving the group; both are individual activities carried out while remaining a member. Check the agency's announcement to understand how a specific project is organized.

Usually not. Many idols release solo albums while remaining members of their group and then return to group activities afterward. Departures or contract changes are announced separately by the agency, so rely on official statements rather than rumors or guesses when you want to know a member's status.

It depends on the unit. Most use the main group's fandom name and lightstick, but long-running units sometimes get a separate logo or merchandise. If you are going to a unit concert, check the official event guide to see which lightstick is supported for syncing and cheering.

Featuring means another artist contributes to part of the song. Often a rapper takes a verse, or a member of another group or an international singer joins in. It is shown as 'feat.' beside the title. Features also help introduce each artist to the other's fans, which is part of their appeal.

It is a collaboration where artists from different agencies release a song together. These are often digital singles, and the artists may perform together on music shows or at award ceremonies. Duets bring two fan bases together and give each singer a chance to try a genre they might not normally explore.

An OST is a song used in a drama or film, and idols often record them solo or as a unit. Unlike group releases, OSTs tend to be vocal-focused songs such as ballads, which gives members a chance to showcase their voices. Because dramas travel widely, these songs often reach international audiences along with the show.

Yes. Agencies sometimes pull members from several of their groups into a project unit, and TV programs occasionally bring together members from different companies for a limited time. Many of these units promote for a set period or just one song, so check the official announcement to understand the scope of the project.

Yes. During a release period, soloists and units often appear on music shows just as full groups do. Pre-recording audience applications and music show voting usually work much the same way as during group promotions. Check the promotion schedule released by the agency to see which shows they will appear on.

A solo concert focuses on one member's musical world, often featuring genres or staging you rarely see in group shows. Venue size and format can differ from group concerts as well. Ticketing methods and fan club presale conditions change from show to show, so always read the official notice before booking.

It varies. Groups often alternate between unit and full-group activities, but schedules can overlap, and other members may pursue individual projects at the same time. Plans for the full group are shared through agency announcements, so try not to read a unit project as a sign the group is breaking up.

Wanjeonche is a fandom word for a group promoting with every member together. After a period when only some members were active, because of units, solo work or military service, a return with everyone is called a wanjeonche comeback. Such reunions mean a lot to fans and usually draw plenty of attention.

Besides solo albums, individual activities include acting in dramas or films, regular variety show roles, hosting music shows or events, radio DJ work, musicals and photo shoots. Members often expand into areas that suit their strengths. You can follow each member's schedule through the agency's official channels.

Yes, idols regularly appear in musical theater. Musicals let them show both singing and acting, so vocal-focused members often take on roles. Many productions rotate several actors in the same role across performances, so check the cast schedule for each date before booking a ticket.

It is a song on a group album performed by just one member. It can be a chance to show that member's personality before any official solo debut, and it is sometimes performed as a solo stage at concerts. Checking the credits may reveal that the member helped write the lyrics or music.

Sometimes. A member may adopt a different stage name or spelling for solo releases to highlight a musical identity separate from the group. Some also use another name when credited as a producer. Use the agency's official announcements to confirm the correct name and spelling for each project.

Listening to the official release, watching the music video and sharing official content are the basics. You can also vote on music shows or apply for pre-recordings, much like during group promotions. Support within your own means, and avoid posts that compare the member with other members or artists in a negative way.

Not at all. Enjoy the activities that interest you, and missing some projects does not make you any less of a fan. The one thing to keep in mind is respect: avoid putting down a member's activity that other fans are excited about. Mutual respect keeps the fandom a comfortable place for everyone.

Collaborations with international artists are often released as digital singles, remixes or features. Both artists' labels usually announce them together, and the songs can get exposure on global streaming services and radio. For accurate release details, follow the official channels of both artists involved.

News usually appears first on the agency's official social media, the group's accounts or fan platform notices. Media reports sometimes come out earlier, but details can change until officially confirmed. Turn on notifications for official accounts, and avoid spreading rumors that have no clear source.