KARD, a South Korean co-ed group formed by DSP Media, debuted in 2017 with members J.Seph, BM, Somin, and Jiwoo. The group gained international attention even before their official debut through their card-game concept and reggaetón-influenced sound. Their discography features trendy, dancehall and house-inspired music, which helped them establish a significant presence in North and South America.
Somin had previously debuted in DSP Media’s Japanese group Puretty and participated in Kara Project before joining KARD. J.Seph and BM trained for several years under DSP, with BM initially set to debut in a hip-hop duo. Jiwoo joined the group after a brief training period at DSP, having trained with FNC Entertainment for two years.
KARD’s Project Singles series, featuring hidden guest members, earned them early success. Their first release, Oh NaNa, reached No. 5 on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart. Subsequent tracks like Don’t Recall and Rumor showed that they can impress even the most demanding audiences. These songs lead them to sold-out tours across North and South America, and recognition as one of the top K-pop groups to watch.
Their official debut EP Hola Hola (2017) and follow-ups like You & Me (2017) and Ride on the Wind (2018) charted on Billboard and Gaon, further expanding their influence. KARD’s shift to a heavier sound with tracks like Dumb Litty introduced elements of trap and EDM, while maintaining their moombahton base, which BM has described as symbolic of the group.
Despite their global success, KARD’s domestic presence has been less pronounced, with limited promotions in Korea. However, they remain dedicated to expanding their reach within the local market. Each member brings distinct musical influences, from BM’s love for Tupac and J.Cole to Somin’s admiration for Ariana Grande, further enriching KARD’s sound.
Following their August 2024 comeback, KARD is preparing for another European tour, KARD 2024 TOUR Where To Now?. The tour kicks off in mid-November and runs through early December, hitting major cities across Europe, including Berlin, Munich, Amsterdam, Birmingham, Naples, Budapest, Warsaw, Lisbon, Madrid, Paris, and Oberhausen.
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