princess soojung

With Amber’s departure from SM, while she hasn’t formally left the group, it does solidify that f(x) will continue to be inactive as a group for a very long/potentially indefinite time. f(x)’s legacy as a 2nd generation group is always overshadowed as they weren’t as visible as their sister group snsd, and SM entertainment always prioritized f(x) members individually despite their group work objectively being some of the best stuff of their kpop generation.

f(x) was one of the best selling 2nd generation kpop groups. From 2011-2015, all their songs were #1 hits on music charts and music shows, their physical album sales were just behind snsd and maybe 2ne1. f(x) was probably one of the first multi-cultural kpop girl groups, with members from the states, China, and Korea. They went on to be the first kpop artist to perform at SXSW, one of the most popular music/art/film festivals in the states. f(x) is also credited with having one of the most musically complex discographies in kpop, with their experimental sounds and risks later being passed down to other SM boy and girl groups.

Individually, The girls broke and redefined so many standards within kpop. Amber’s “tomboy” look was unheard of in kpop and she challenged beauty and style standards. Krystal, despite being the group’s visual and “it” girl, was always unapologetically herself, even when she got hate for her “ice-cold glare”. If she didn’t want to smile she never did, and that is a hard thing for idols to give in to. Victoria was one of the earliest examples of foreign idols being individually recognized in Korea for their charm. During f(x)’s early days, she was the most publicly recognized member through her time in WGM and other variety shows. Luna will always have one of the most underrated voices of kpop, and overall is the strongest all-rounder idol with power vocals of a lead vocal and dance abilities of the main dancer.