A sub-unit in K-pop is a smaller group that hails from the larger group they originally belong to. A K-pop sub-unit possesses different projects, stunts, releases, albums, and music videos from the original group. Moreover, sub-units can be curated under the same group or members from various bands that are under the umbrella of the same agency and recording label.

The K-pop dedicated news site, Kpopstarz, has listed the in-demand K-pop sub-units of today.

EXO-CBX

EXO’s CBC comprises of EXO Xiumin, Chen, and Baekhyun, which is the first-ever sub-unit of the band. Their first stunt as a sub-unit kicked off on July 29, 2016, where the trio graced a video titled ‘Reservoir Idols’ during the band’s concert tour called ‘Exo Planet 3 – The Exo’rdium.’

CBC dropped their first original soundtrack called ‘For You’ for the K-drama series of SBS titled ‘Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo’ on August 23, 2016.

SM Entertainment launched CBC on October 5, 2016.

NCT U

The Neo Culture Technology, best known as NCT, is notably a carrier of several sub-units from WAYV, NCT DREAM, to NCT 127. The fourth sub-unit by the band is NCT U, who it consists of members from the band that shares the same concept.

NCT U made their way to the public on April 19, 2016, under the care of SM Entertainment.

JJ PROJECT

JJ Project is a sub-unit that composes members from GOT7, hailing the duo Jinyoung and JB as the sole participants. The doubleton is curated by JYP Entertainment, paving for their debut single released called ‘Bounce’ in May 2012.

MOBB

MOBB is a duet of Mino and Booby, despite not being in the same group. However, the idols qualified as a sub-unit because they both come from the same agency.

After several music releases, YG Entertainment announced on their official website in 2019 about the sub-unit’s disbandment.