Despite a nearly two-year hiatus, boy band BIGBANG continues to be one of K-Pop’s most established and popular groups. Before their comeback this year, BIGBANG made a statement at the 2011 MTV European Music Awards by winning "Best Worldwide Act." The award was voted on by fans and saw the group beating out Britney Spears and other popular artists from all regions. The group reemerged with their Alive EP, which included mid-tempo R&B-influenced ballads like "Blue" and high-energy bangers like "Fantastic Baby." The set charted on the Billboard 200 at Number 150 despite no physical release or active promotion in America. BIGBANG members G-Dragon and T.O.P in particular have caught the eyes of super-producer Diplo (who produced a track for their duo project titled "Knock Out") and British pop singer Pixie Lott (who features them on the track "Dancing On My Own" for the Japanese release of her second album).
While BIGBANG represent the established boy bands of South Korea, Beast embody a new wave of boy bands shaking things up. The group puts a special emphasis on their vocals, heard in singles like "Fiction." Interestingly, its membership is comprised of members who were either kicked out of other popular groups or those that never launched. Their music videos (including tracks like "Shock" and "Beautiful") already boast millions of views and several members have proven their English skills.
And once they've established themselves, Queen CL will be the next worldwide Beyoncé and Princess Bom will be the next Kelly Rowland but actually useful. Dara and Minzy will find some occupation that they'll succeed in.