Kara Disbands: K-Pop Group Breaks Up after 9 Years
It's a sad day in the K-pop world. Long-running girl group Kara announced it would be disbanding after a remarkable nine years running.
Their record label DSP Media said three of its remaining four members—Gyuri, Seungyeon and Hara—will not be re-signing their contracts with the company as the members pursue other endeavors. Per the Korea Times, DSP Media left a parting message to the three, saying, "We want to cheer them on and wish them the best." The label added that remaining member Youngji, who joined Kara in 2014, will remain signed.
Longtime K-pop fans will remember Kara's debut on the K-pop scene in 2007 as DSP Media labeled them the successors to their DSP's previous girl group Fin.K.L, who were massive in the late '90s/early '00s. Kara took a moment to connect with audiences, but eventually blew up thanks to songs like "Honey" and "Mister." The latter helped them become a sensation thanks to its iconic "butt dance" featured in the music video and live performances. The group enjoyed a string of hits with a '80s-tinged, synth-pop sound ("Step," "Pandora," "Damaged Lady," "Mamma Mia") which became a staple of its style.
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