2PM is an iconic South Korean boy band from JYP Entertainment that has left a huge mark on the K-pop landscape since its formation. Originally part of the larger group One Day, which emerged from the documentary series Hot Blood Men, 2PM was distinguished for its dynamic hip-hop and dance-focused style. Debuting with the energetic anthem "10 Out of 10," the group quickly garnered attention for their acrobatic dance routines and charismatic performances. Their subsequent singles "Again & Again" and "Heartbeat" solidified their status as chart-toppers, leading to the release of their first studio album, 01:59PM, in 2009.
However, 2PM faced a significant transition when former leader Jaebeom departed in 2009 following controversies related to his social media posts (which took place on Myspace and was a harbinger of the kind of online controversies that would continually smite groups in the decades to come). Despite this setback, the remaining members—Jun. K, Nichkhun, Taecyeon, Wooyoung, Junho, and Chansung—persevered and continued to thrive in the K-pop industry.
In 2017, 2PM temporarily halted group activities as its members fulfilled mandatory military service obligations. The group made a triumphant return in 2021 with their seventh studio album Must. The hiatus underscored their commitment to personal growth and readiness to tackle new challenges in their careers.
Each member of 2PM has a unique journey to the group. While most auditioned for JYP Entertainment, Nichkhun was scouted in the United States, becoming the company's first non-Korean trainee. Their diverse backgrounds, including experiences living abroad, enriched the group's dynamic and contributed to their distinctive international appeal.
Throughout their career, 2PM has not only captivated audiences with their music but also set trends with their rugged, masculine image, popularizing the "jimseung-dol" or "beast idol" concept in Korean pop culture. Their impact extends beyond music, as evidenced by their numerous accolades, sold-out concerts, and groundbreaking achievements both in Korea and internationally.