Monsta X is a South Korean boy band known for their powerful performances, captivating visuals, and diverse musical styles. The group was formed by Starship Entertainment through the reality show "NO.MERCY," which aired from December 2014 to February 2015. "NO.MERCY" was a survival program that aimed to create a new boy group by selecting talented trainees from the company.
The original lineup of Monsta X consisted of seven members: Shownu (born Son Hyun-woo), Wonho (born Lee Ho-seok), Minhyuk (born Lee Min-hyuk), Kihyun (born Yoo Ki-hyun), Hyungwon (born Chae Hyung-won), Jooheon (born Lee Joo-heon), and I.M (born Im Chang-kyun).
After the conclusion of "NO.MERCY," the group officially debuted on May 14, 2015, with their extended play (EP) titled "Trespass." The album featured the title track "Trespass," which showcased their fierce and energetic image. Monsta X quickly gained attention and popularity for their strong performances, particularly in the realm of hip-hop and R&B.
Throughout 2015 and 2016, Monsta X released several EPs, including "Rush," "The Clan Pt. 1: Lost," and "The Clan Pt. 2.5: The Final Chapter." The "Clan" series helped establish Monsta X's identity and storytelling capabilities through their music videos and concept development.
In 2017, Monsta X continued to expand their international presence by embarking on their first world tour. That same year, they released their first studio album, "The Clan Pt. 2.5: The Final Chapter," with the lead single "Beautiful." The album was well-received both domestically and internationally, further cementing their position in the K-pop industry.
In 2018, Monsta X made their debut in the Japanese market with the single "Hero," followed by their first Japanese studio album, "Piece." The group also continued to release Korean music, including EPs like "The Connect: Dejavu" and "Take.1 Are You There?" Their popularity soared, and they became recognized as one of the leading K-pop acts in the global music scene.
However, in October 2019, Monsta X faced a setback when member Wonho decided to leave the group due to personal reasons. Despite the difficult situation, the remaining members persevered and continued their activities.
In 2020, Monsta X released their first full-length English album, "All About Luv," which was well-received by international fans and marked a significant step in their global outreach. They also collaborated with various international artists, further strengthening their position as a global phenomenon.
In 2021, Wonho returned to the music scene as a solo artist, and Monsta X continued to release music as a six-member group. They explored various genres and concepts in their music, showcasing their versatility as artists.
Throughout their career, Monsta X has received numerous awards and accolades, including several Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA), Seoul Music Awards, and Golden Disc Awards. Their fandom, known as Monbebe, has remained dedicated and supportive, helping the group maintain their success over the years.
After the departure of Wonho, Monsta X released their album "Follow: Find You" in October 2019. The title track "Follow" showcased their resilience and determination as a six-member group. They received tremendous support from fans and the industry during this challenging time.
In 2020, Monsta X continued to shine with the release of their mini-album "Fantasia," featuring the title track of the same name. "Fantasia" demonstrated a more mature and sophisticated sound, impressing fans and critics alike.
Monsta X's popularity reached new heights when they participated in the Korean reality show "Kingdom: Legendary War" in 2021. The show brought together six boy groups to compete in various performance categories, showcasing their talent and creativity. Monsta X's powerful performances and charismatic stage presence earned them praise and further solidified their position in the K-pop industry.
Continuing their international endeavors, Monsta X embarked on successful world tours, holding concerts in various countries and continents, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Their concerts attracted thousands of fans, proving their global popularity.
In addition to their musical achievements, Monsta X has also been recognized for their philanthropic efforts. They have participated in various charitable activities and collaborations to support causes such as children's welfare, disaster relief, and environmental preservation.
Moreover, individual members have pursued solo projects and activities. Some members have released solo music, acted in dramas, and appeared on various television shows, expanding their influence beyond Monsta X as a group.
As a testament to their global appeal, Monsta X has also garnered international collaborations with renowned artists. They have collaborated with prominent Western musicians such as Steve Aoki and French Montana, bridging the gap between K-pop and the global music scene.
Monsta X's discography boasts a diverse range of music, from powerful and intense tracks to heartfelt and emotional ballads. They are known for being actively involved in the creative process, often writing and producing their own music, which has allowed them to express their unique personalities and emotions through their work.
The group's strong bond with their fans, Monbebe, is evident through their interactions on social media and during fan meetings. Monbebe's unwavering support has played a crucial role in Monsta X's success, and the members are known for their appreciation and love for their fanbase.