However, that does not seem to be the case for co-ed group KARD, consisting of four members. There are the two male members in B.M and J.seph along with the two female members in Somin and Jiwoo. They were created in 2016 by DSP Media and it appears the group makes a clear distinction compared to other boy or girl groups, not just because of the uncommon co-ed concept but due to KARD's unique taste, characteristics and interesting concepts.
Their first release was "Oh NaNa" back in December and the song placed well on the music charts, with the music video hitting 6.3 million views on YouTube in one month and millions more on other platforms.
Their second single "Don't Recall" was followed by another explosive response, ranking number 1 on the Kpop iTunes chart. In an interview with DongA, Jiwoo commented on the unexpected reaction, "We didn't even think about, but we would like to thank everyone for supporting KARD." B.M took a step further saying, "We want to become world stars. We'll continue to work hard so that we aren't just a unique rookie group but a group that can place on the Billboard charts."
Jiwoo commented on the music style, "The genre of music we are doing is something foreign fans enjoy. It has become more popular in Korea and I think it will become more popular as we start promoting our songs." B.M. added, "The main dance choreography is a real hit."
For starters, the name KARD comes from 'trump card' or playing cards, and they take on the roles of the King, Ace, Joker, and a Hidden Card respectively.
In regards to the members' roles, Jiwoo said, "B.M (as King) seems to lead a lot. We don't really have a formal leader but we all contribute in some shape or form."
The 'Ace' J.seph commented, "Ace is the one who supports the lowest team but sharply attacks the highest team". 'Black Joker' Somin and 'Color Joker' Jiwoo commented, "Joker has many different colors thus can be used to present dynamic sounds and dance moves."
As for the 'Hidden Card,' many were wondering who or what the hidden card was in "Don't Recall". The members revealed that the hidden card was the hidden track itself, "There isn't a concrete hidden card necessarily, it changes depending on the song."
When asked, "Which artists they would like to work with", J.seph commented Beenzino and Zico, L.A. born B.M mentioned DJ Snake, Jiwoo named Jay Park, and Somin stated Lee Hyori, presenting their different taste in music.
Former April member Somin said she was the last member to make it into KARD, "I was very lucky to become a member of KARD, I wanted to create dynamic music which is why I left April." B.M. mentioned, "There were only supposed to be two members with me and J.Seph as a hip-hop duo but those plans changed later on." J.Seph mentioned that he didn't like the concept of having a co-ed group at first but it all worked out for the best as Somin and Jiwoo could cover his and B.M's weaknesses. He also mentioned that the two female members and being a co-ed group can further broaden their appeal to bring in more fans than they would have as just a duo.
Lastly, B.M hinted, "We would like to have a world tour." The KARD members stated, "We are currently working hard on our third song, please look forward to our next project."
KARD is planning to reveal another single soon. The next single will be the final for their pre-debut and then they will begin their actual promotions for their formal debut before 2017 ends.
Hoping for another successful song!
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