A K-pop subunit or subgroup is a smaller group created from members of a larger idol group. These subunits promote separately with their own music, concept and styling while still remaining part of the main group.
The subunits with three members are getting popular because they offer unique concepts and themes while fulfilling fan desires for specific member pairings, driving both artistic and commercial success in K-pop. Below are a few trio subunits that encourage companies to repeat the formula.
Orange Caramel of After School
Orange Caramel is a sub-unit of the girl group After School and consists of three members: Raina, Nana and Lizzy. They debuted on June 16, 2010 under Pledis Entertainment with their first mini album, The First Mini Album.
The theme of the subunit contrasted After School’s mature image with a lighthearted, youthful concept featuring whimsical music videos like Magic Girl and Catallena.
BSS (BooSeokSoon) of Seventeen
BSS, known for their energetic and fun music, is the sub-unit of boy group Seventeen, composed of DK, Hoshi and Seungkwan. They debuted with their first single, Just Do It in 2018.
They are considered one of K-pop’s most successful sub-units, as they achieved massive success with their 2023 comeback with the song Fighting which broke records and became a major hit. Continuing their theme of youthful celebration, they returned with their second single album Teleparty, featuring the song CBZ, in 2025.
MISAMO of Twice
MiSaMo is the first sub-unit of the girl group Twice formed by JYP Entertainment. The group consists of Twice’s Japanese members, Momo, Sana and Mina. They debuted in 2023 with the mini album Masterpiece, following a pre-debut digital single, Bouquet.
They are known for their sweet dance-pop sound and strong performances while exploring themes of fearless and powerful womanhood. Their debut mini-album included the title track Do not touch, showcasing strong, confident women.
The trio subunit has shown a great impact on the K-pop subunit trend, as it focuses on a smaller number of members compared to groups and helps in showing each member’s individual skills precisely. The trios get more common because they offer fresh perspectives and memorable moments. What are some of your favourite trios or subunits?
Written by – Soni Maurya
About the author –
Hello everyone, I am Soni Maurya. I am a postgraduate student of English Literature and am also learning Korean. My interest in Korean culture began with music and gradually grew into a genuine passion as I explored its language, culture, and traditions. I truly enjoy researching and learning new things, as well as creating my own work.