Is there anything more special than celebrating your first anniversary with your loved ones? For XODIAC, today, April 25, is that special day, and they're celebrating it with their beloved fans, X-BLISS.

The multinational 5th-generation K-Pop boy group consisting of Korean members LEX, HYUNSIK, BEOMSOO, GYUMIN, WAIN, and DAVIN, Indonesian member ZAYYAN, and Hong Kongese members SING and LEO, are making waves in the K-Pop industry while also expanding their horizons by engaging in fields of acting and fashion.

Their latest comeback with the album "XOUL DAY" was a wonderful representation of XODIAC's sonic style, versatile talents, and, most importantly, their love for fans. The title track 'HEYDAY' is a fan song, and truly speaks to how precious of a relationship XODIAC has with X-BLISS.

Continuing their trend of giving back to fans and expressing their love at any given opportunity, XODIAC prepared handwritten letters for fans in Korean. We know many X-BLISS are waiting for an English translation. We've got you covered!

Check out the English translations of the XODIAC members' handwritten letters to fans below!

 

1. LEX

To. X-BLISS ♡

X-BLISS~~

Can you believe it's already been a year since we've been together!!

Time flies so fast, doesn't it?!?

Thank you so much for being with XODIAC for a year,

Thanks to all the X-BLISS, it feels like we've made so many memories!

I'll really do my best in the future!

Let's continue to make more memories together!

Let's spend the future together~~!

Every day, Duranghae ~~♡

 

2. HYUNSIK

To. X-BLISS!!! ♡

X-BLISS! It's already been a year since XODIAC started..

We've had so many things happen in the past year...

We worked hard, and X-BLISS

supported us diligently, which brought us here!

Thank you so much, as always,

X-BLISS are my top priority. I won't change ♡

There's no such thing as forever, but to X-BLISS

I want to recklessly promise eternity

Let's be happy, thank you for coming into my life!!!

X-BLISS!

 

3. ZAYYAN

X-BLISS, hello~! It's ZAYYAN!

First of all, I'm so happy to have debuted with XODIAC

Whether it's short or long, this past year

had its difficult days, but with XODIAC and X-BLISS

I've had so many good times, and it feels great!

Let's stay together like this and walk the flower path.

Let's create more memories together!

And always be happy!

Thank you, and I love you!

Let's fly even higher!!

 

4. BEOMSOO

To X-BLISS,

Wow, it's already been a year since we've been together!!

Time really flies, doesn't it?

Thinking back to the 100th day, the 200th day, the 300th day celebrations,

it feels like I blinked, and suddenly a whole year has passed, haha...

I'm so thankful for always being together,

and because of X-BLISS, BEOMSOO, as an idol, has been able to come this far with effort.

There were times when I didn't feel like getting up after falling down...

I even had thoughts like that, but you always lifted me up and said, "Let's go together," X-BLISS. Thank you.

Thanks to you, the past year has passed so happily that I didn't even realize it 🙂

Because of that, I'm curious about what our future holds.

Sometimes, both X-BLISS and BEOMSOO may not always be happy and joyful every day,

so let's support each other through those times as well and move forward together.

As much as X-BLISS have supported me, I'll work even harder to show you a cool and beautiful side of myself.

Let's continue to care for each other for a long, long time and be together beautifully in the future, too. I'll count on you.

Thank you, and I love you so much ♡

- BEOMSOO -

 

5. WAIN

To X-BLISS,

X-BLISS, this is WAIN!

It's been a year since XODIAC debuted.

I sincerely want to thank X-BLISS, who have been with us from the beginning to now.

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to X-BLISS. I will never forget the gratitude I feel towards X-BLISS and will strive even harder to bring greater happiness to X-BLISS.

Because X-BLISS exist, XODIAC exists, and because X-BLISS exist, XODIAC's WAIN exists.

I will always be sincerely thankful and strive to grow with a humble attitude.

Thank you! Congratulations on our 1st anniversary, X-BLISS!

I love you.

 

6. GYUMIN

To X-BLISS,

Hello, it's me, GYUMIN!

It's been a year since we first met on this day last year, and somehow, we've gone through all four seasons together, and here we are again!

Seeing how fast time flies, it seems like we've spent such meaningful moments together! Throughout this year, X-BLISS have always loved and supported us

unwaveringly, and I genuinely felt so happy because of that. Thank you so much for loving and embracing all aspects of me, both on stage and off. I'm not one to just

receive without giving back, so I promise to repay everything I've received many times over.

They say everyone has their brightest moments in life! Well, my brightest moment in life began when I met X-BLISS! I'm so grateful to be able to spend this time

with X-BLISS right now.

X-BLISS, thank you for creating so many wonderful memories over the past year. Let's continue to make more good memories and happy moments together in the

future!!

I love you, X-BLISS.

- From GYUMIN -

 

7. SING

Thank you so much for supporting me for a year.

Thanks to X-BLISS, I've grown a lot during this time!!

Even in tough moments, having X-BLISS by my side

made it bearable!!

I want to be that kind of presence for X-BLISS too!!

Thank you so much for creating unforgettable memories

during this year ♡ Let's be together for a long time!!

XODIAC's SING

♡ ♡ ♡

 

8. DAVIN

To. X-BLISS

X-BLISS~~ Long time no see

It's already our 1st anniversary!

Even before debut, from the trainee days,

You've watched over, supported, even before

we had a name, you supported us with the heart of a fan.

Thank you always. Even when it's tough, it feels like I can gather strength because of X-BLISS.

I'll continue to work hard to become a singer that X-BLISS can be proud of.

Always be our fan! Love you ♡

DAVIN

 

9. LEO

From debut until now,

X-BLISS who always supported me,

you've really worked hard all this time!

Thanks to X-BLISS , I've grown a lot,

and I always carry precious feelings

whenever we meet.

Without you, it just won't do!

I'll continue to show you a good side!

I'll show you an even cooler LEO ♡♡

I love you ♡

 

Do you have any messages for XODIAC on the group's 1 year anniversary? Share them with us on X!

The K-Pop industry is known to be a revolving door of innovation, creativity, and impactful star presence. The Hallyu wave has effectively taken over the world with idol groups and soloists, along with riveting K-Dramas at the forefront. Just like previous years, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism conducted the Overseas Hallyu Survey to determine overseas fans' favorites in various categories.

The main purpose of this survey is to compile the data on the impact of the Hallyu wave. With a sample size of 25,000 people from over 26 countries, the 2024 Overseas Hallyu Survey tries its best to show an accurate representation of what types of K-Content is being consumed in different countries.

In one part of the survey, respondents were asked "Who is currently your favorite Korean group/artists?". Let's find out their answers below!

 

Top 5 Favorite K-Pop Groups/Artists

1. BTS

With an impressive 29.1%, BTS takes the top spot among overseas fans' favorite K-Pop idol groups/artists. While the BTS members were active with solo schedules, they slowly made their way into the army, one by one, in order to carry out their mandatory military enlistment. Despite fulfilling their national duty, the iconic boy group's musical influence, positivity, and unique outlook have cemented them as a top idol group.

 

2. BLACKPINK

Following in second is world-renowned girl group BLACKPINK. They were selected by 13.1% of respondents as their favorite idol group. After the conclusion of their Born Pink World Tour, the iconic girl group decided to stay together with YG for group promotions, but would pursue their individual endeavors under a separate companies. Despite this, the very essence of BLACKPINK still resonated deeply with K-Pop fans across the globe for both their music and individuality.

 

3. Psy

When 'Gangnam Style' first dominated the world charts, it seemed like a fever dream. However, through its success, the Korean wave was able to make a resounding resurgence worldwide. This international success has remained with Psy since, praised for his contributions to Korean entertainment and culture. Psy had a somewhat quiet 2023 but was still able to fill concert venues and remained at the forefront of overseas fans' hearts, being selected by 2.9%.

 

4. BTS' JungKook

BTS as a whole were successful soloists in 2023, however, the one member who was selected by 2.7% of overseas fans as their favorite artist was none other than the golden maknae himself, BTS' JungKook. Coming out with the album "GOLDEN", comprised of hits like 'Seven', 'Standing Next To You', and '3D', JungKook's career was elevated to another level. He was able to showcase his individuality as an artist, becoming a beloved name among the K-Pop community and beyond.

 

5. IU

Rounding out the list at no. 5 is the lovely singer-actress, IU. The award-winning soloist was selected by 2.1% of overseas fans. In 2023, she earned immense love for her appearance in hilarious yet heartwarming sports movie, "Dream". Aside from this, IU is an artist that millions love worldwide, praised for her swoon-worthy musicality and incredible artistic prowess.

 

Top 5 Favorite K-Pop Groups Regional Breakdown

Although the above artists were the overall consensus among overseas fans, there were some outliers among the various regions. In Asia - Oceania TWICE and BLACKPINK's Lisa took no. 4 and no. 5. Stray Kids were included in the Top 5 of the Americas and Europe. Then BIGBANG's G-Dragon was present among the fans in the Middle East and Africa. However, one common factor among all regions was BTS' place at the top. Even in a year where they all slowly transitioned into military service, they remained the hottest K-Pop act that the world has ever seen.

However, speaking of consistency, BLACKPINK remained at a constant no. 2, while they were beaten out by BTS' loveable maknae, JungKook, among the overseas fans in Africa. These rankings have remained quite similar over the past several years.

As seen through the results of the Overseas Hallyu Survey over the years, BTS and BLACKPINK remain a force to be reckoned with. They worked tirelessly, standing on the biggest stages worldwide, communicating with fans through whatever means possible. They built up a long-standing legacy within the K-Pop community that surely won't crumble anytime soon. And despite all the criticism and hardships they might have faced along the way, the groups remained resolute in their commitment to their profession as idols, leveling up at various moments of their career. Both BTS and BLACKPINK have become frontrunners of the K-Pop industry, recognized by millions, if not trillions, around the globe.

 

The BTS & BLACKPINK Effect

It's hard to describe just how big of an influence BTS and BLACKPINK have had on the K-Pop community, resulting in both groups being no. 1 and no. 2 on overseas fans' top 5 list. With such longevity in their careers and the ability to connect to audiences beyond music, they've become a mainstay within the various micro-communities scattered across K-Pop. Currently, the two groups are taking a pause in their careers as a group, with BTS in the military and BLACKPINK focusing on their solo endeavors. However, both BTS and BLACKPINK continue to show up in netizens' mentions, extending their reach past the dedicated fandoms of ARMY and BLINK.

As a result of their continuing fame, despite being in a rest period of their group career, the sentiment towards the two are quite positive as fans patiently wait for their return.

And while it might be some time until we're able to see both BTS and BLACKPINK take the stage as a full group, this proves one thing: they show no signs of slowing down. The fact that people are still mentioning and searching about the two groups showcases their massive allure, bewitching the entire world to fall into their ocean of charms. This affection is well-earned, backed up by spectacular stages, heartwarming social media interactions, and being treated to additional content, so their absence is rarely felt. With this, it's quite likely that even future iterations of the Overseas Hallyu Survey will result in the idol groups being no. 1 and no. 2 once again.

 

Other Consistent Star-Studded Names

The prestige of BTS and BLACKPINK aside, along with Psy, there are even more names that deserve recognition for leading the Hallyu wave to even bigger heights. When talking about the globalization of K-Pop, one cannot forget about JYP Entertainment girl group TWICE. They've become a sturdy cornerstone within the industry, consistently selling out concert venues and becoming more than a national gem. Now, fans everywhere cheer their name at their various world tour stops and all across social media.

The interest over time towards TWICE has remained consistently high over the past 5 years, peaking around the times of their world tour, year end award show performances, and new releases. With such a strong fanbase and even interest from casual K-Pop fans, the girl group has an enormous stake in the K-Pop industry. Their presence is undeniable and will surely continue to persist, even with the changing of generations.

Then there's celebrated veteran, IU, who has managed to remain in the top 5 K-Pop acts for overseas fans for the past several years. Her sheer influence in the K-Pop scene cannot be understated, as she's also able to bridge the gap between music show stages and drama film sets.

Over the past 5 years, similarly to TWICE, netizen's interest over time towards the soloist have remained at a constantly high rate, showing huge jumps during song releases, news of her relationship status, and the moment she announced her world tour. Apart from BTS, BLACKPINK, and Psy, these two amazingly talented and renowned artists have remained at the top of the K-Pop scene, receiving love from international fans far and wide.

Newer groups from the fourth and fifth generation are currently showcasing a parade of talents, vying for the top spot in overseas fans' heart. Only time will tell if they'll have the ability to be included in the Overseas Hallyu Survey and be mentioned among the top 5 groups of overseas fans.

What do you think of the results of the Top 5 K-Pop Idols/Artists for the 2024 Overseas Hallyu Survey?

April has been quite the month for K-Pop comebacks and debuts within the music scene. There are heavy hitters at every corner, constantly battling for the top spot on the charts. But if there's one group who remains a consistent force within the music scene, it's WOOAH. They're a group who's not limited by any means, exceling in a number of different styles showcasing their flexibility as artists.

The five member girl group recently made a comeback after about a year and a half with the single release, 'BLUSH'. Compared to the typical, energetic K-Pop dance track of 'Rollercoaster', 'BLUSH' offers more of an easygoing, laidback listen that you can have on loop for hours on end. It's not the first time woo!ah! has decided to switch things up, fully demonstrating their ability to mold to any genre.

They're a girl group that's shown constant improvement since debut, with the potential to trend even higher as their career moves forward.

 

Talented Since Pre-Debut

The members of WOOAH put in the years and hard work to stand where they are today. Even prior to their official debut and group formation, they were actively posting on their official YouTube channel, portraying their lives as trainees. Through these short videos, fans were able to discover that the members were incredibly talented, equipped with the vocals, rap skills, and dance proficiency needed to stand on stage and perform under the title of 'idol'.

When it was time for the girls to finally make their first appearance on music show stages, they showed a completely different image from what we see today. A mixture of girl crush, hip-hop, and bubblegum K-Pop, WOOAH set out to grab hold of the K-Pop world with their self-titled debut track. This would mark their first step into the music industry and with fiery determination and unwavering conviction, they made a statement early fans could never forget. This laid the foundation of what's to come, and with their array of talents, early wow! were certain that WOOAH would soon embark on an upward trajectory.

 

A Girl Group Of Many Talents

When it comes to individual skill, WOOAH has it in spades. They compliment each other perfectly, however, it's their individual talents that make them such a formidable girl group in the K-Pop industry. And the members aren't afraid to showcase their talent either with either original tracks, cover songs, and dance practice videos. All these, and more, can be seen via their official YouTube channel where WOOAH has multiple examples of their never-ending talent.

When you have a group that utilizes NaNa's impeccable dancing prowess, WooYeon's refreshing vocals, Sora's serotonin-like presence, Lucy's addictive rap skills, and MinSeo's cider-like high notes, you can be certain you'll have a recipe for success. They've shown incredible presence outside of group activities that make them a group netizens should definitely be keeping track of. Their ability to come together, combine their strengths, and present various stages that speak to their high level of execution and skill surprise countless individuals in the K-Pop community, making many believe that it's only a matter of time before they eventually rise to the top.

 

WOOAH Among The Trends

Despite the tough competition among girl groups, WOOAH continue to set their own pace and remain a constant presence within the K-Pop industry. Netizens don't let up on showering the girl group with immense praise, retaining interest towards them since their comeback. Fans have been fervent in offering the girls their unlimited support, advocating for even more people to listen to their comeback. But it's not just limited to 'BLUSH', as any song by WOOAH will certainly pull you in, causing you to become a dedicated supporter.

The interest over time towards the girl group shows that they're able to capture the attention of netizens when the time calls for it, being able to slay music show stages and captivate audiences in the process. Now, fans are hoping for more frequent releases in order to showcase the sheer talent the girls have and hopefully keep them trending for a much longer period of time.

The path to success hasn't been an easy one for WOOAH but their vitamin-like nature allows them to act as a bright shining light, towards both fans and non-fans alike.

How long have you been following the girl group? What do you like about them?