In modern K-pop concepts, many fans are used to highly produced, slick performances that elevate the musical experience, but almost a decade ago, there was a very different standard for performances. The shows focused much more on just song and dance - until one group emerged and helped shake up the live K-pop scene. That group? VIXX. They might not have been the only ones pushing towards higher production, but they certainly made an impact on K-pop through their dedication to concepts, overarching storyline, and fierce showmanship.
VIXX debuted on May 24, 2012, with the single “Super Hero.” The group was created under Jellyfish Entertainment through the reality competition show MyDOL, with the name VIXX – an acronym that’s meant to be an abbreviation of “Voice, Visual, Value in Excess.” The group was conceptualized as a performance-and concept-focused crew, meaning they were able to focus on their main goals right away.
From their start, VIXX has been known as the ‘concept kings,’ with each new comeback showing a full dedication to the ideas presented. They always went all-out for the concept. Each of these individual concepts also reinforced their core storyline and central theme: love. Whether it be hopeless romanticism, passionate obsession, or a deep longing, VIXX has remained consistent as a voice for those wishing for their own fairytale ending.
This dedication to concept and theme was such an important part of the VIXX identity, Jellyfish Entertainment even released a recap reel highlighting their concepts from 2012 to 2017.
Additionally, the group was praised early on for their live performances, with some comparing VIXX shows to more of a theater presentation, with themes and storylines that were both easy to follow and connected to the overarching themes of VIXX. They dazzled audiences with this style of showmanship which has become common among other groups like ATEEZ and SEVENTEEN.
Although they were never the most popular group, and various issues led to several members leaving over the years, VIXX can hold their heads high as pioneers of the level of production and commitment that has become so central to all K-pop groups. Nowadays, it would be unthinkable for a group not to stick to a concept or present a fully cohesive live show, but these were the elements that made VIXX stand out from the rest over a decade ago. The K-pop world might not have been broken before, but it definitely needed some VIXX-ing.