EXO is a South Korean-Chinese boy group that debuted under SM Entertainment in 2012. The group initially consisted of 12 members, divided into two sub-units: EXO-K, which focused on promoting in South Korea, and EXO-M, which focused on promoting in China. The sub-units allowed EXO to cater to a wider audience and showcase their talents in different languages. However, after the departures of Kris, Luhan, and Tao, EXO-M was effectively disbanded, and the group continued their promotions as a unified group.
SM Entertainment began promoting EXO in 2011, introducing the members individually through teaser videos and photos. These teasers generated significant anticipation and excitement among fans and the public. The members were gradually revealed, including Kai, Suho, Chanyeol, Baekhyun, D.O., Sehun, Kris, Lay, Luhan, Tao, Xiumin, and Chen. Now the group consists of nine members : Kai,Suho,Lay,Sehun,Baekhyun,D.O,Xiumin,Chen,Chanyeol .
EXO made their official debut on April 8, 2012, with the release of their debut single "MAMA" in both Korean and Mandarin Chinese. The song showcased their powerful vocals and intricate choreography. The debut mini-album, also titled "MAMA," achieved commercial success, winning numerous awards and earning EXO the title of "Best New Asian Group" at the 2012 Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA). In 2013, the group released their first full-length studio album, "XOXO." The album featured the lead single "Wolf," which blended different music genres and showcased EXO's versatility. "XOXO" became a major success, selling over one million copies and making EXO the first Korean artist in twelve years to achieve that milestone. They also won several awards, including the "Album of the Year" award at the 2013 MAMA.
EXO has a dedicated and passionate fanbase known as EXO-Ls. The fandom has shown immense support for the group throughout their career, breaking records and organizing various charitable projects in the members' names. EXO-Ls have been recognized for their dedication and are known for their creative fan art, fan fiction, and fan-made content. EXO and their fandom have been involved in several philanthropic efforts. The group has participated in numerous charity campaigns and events, including collaborations with UNICEF and other organizations. EXO-Ls have also organized various charity projects, such as donating to charitable causes and organizing birthday celebrations for the members with a focus on giving back to the community.
Throughout their career, members of EXO have pursued solo activities in addition to their group promotions. Several members have released solo music, starred in movies and dramas, participated in variety shows, and showcased their talents in different areas. Notable solo endeavors include Baekhyun's successful solo music career, Chen's solo releases, and D.O.'s acting career, which gained critical acclaim.
EXO's popularity extends far beyond South Korea and China. They have gained significant international recognition and have been invited to perform at prestigious events such as the closing ceremony of the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics. They have also been recognized with numerous awards, including multiple Daesang (Grand Prize) wins at major Korean music award shows, demonstrating their impact and success in the industry.
EXO continued their success with the release of their third studio album, "EX'ACT," in 2016. The album featured the tracks "Lucky One" and "Monster," which became massive hits. "EX'ACT" sold over a million copies and won several awards, solidifying EXO's position as one of the top K-pop groups.
In 2017, EXO released their fourth studio album, "The War," featuring the lead single "Ko Ko Bop." The album topped various music charts and became their fourth consecutive album to sell over a million copies. They also released a repackaged version of the album titled "The War: The Power of Music," featuring the single "Power."
EXO's fifth studio album, "Don't Mess Up My Tempo," was released in 2018 and showcased a more mature sound. The album's lead single, "Tempo," gained immense popularity, and the album became their highest-selling album at the time. In 2019, they released a repackaged version of the album called "Love Shot."
During this period, EXO held various successful world tours, including "The Lost Planet," "Exo'luxion," and "Exo'rdium." They also expanded their reach internationally, performing in countries around the world and gaining a significant global fanbase.
EXO is known for their intricate and synchronized choreography. Their performances are characterized by powerful and dynamic movements, showcasing their dance skills and stage presence. The group has consistently delivered captivating performances during their concerts, showcases, and award show appearances, earning them a reputation as one of the top performers in the K-pop industry.
EXO has embarked on multiple world tours, allowing them to connect with fans from various countries. Their tours include "The Lost Planet" (2014-2015), "Exo'luxion" (2015-2016), "Exo'rdium" (2016-2017), and "Exo Planet #5 – ExplOration" (2019). These tours have taken them to cities around the world, including Seoul, Tokyo, Los Angeles, New York, London, and more.
EXO has made a significant impact on the K-pop industry, achieving numerous milestones and breaking records throughout their career. They have been recognized as one of the best-selling K-pop groups of all time, with multiple albums surpassing the million-selling mark. Their success and influence have paved the way for future generations of K-pop acts, and they have inspired many aspiring artists with their music, performances, and work ethic.