"One of a Kind" — ALLDAY PROJECT, the 'New Avengers' That Shook Up K-pop
K-pop has been shaken to its core by a lineup no one could have predicted.
It’s been about a month since the co-ed group ALLDAY PROJECT made their highly anticipated debut, and the buzz hasn’t stopped. While there were plenty of skeptics voicing concerns over the idea of a co-ed group before their debut, now, the majority are expressing overwhelming support.
ALLDAY PROJECT — consisting of Annie, Tarzan, Bailey, Woochan, and Youngseo — officially debuted on June 23 under THEBLACKLABEL. The group is produced by Teddy, the hitmaker behind songs for BIGBANG, BLACKPINK, and more. The members include Annie and Tarzan (both born in 2002), Bailey (2004), Woochan, and Youngseo (both 2005).
Since KARD’s debut in 2017, co-ed groups have been almost non-existent in the K-pop scene. Some agencies have attempted to launch mixed-gender groups in the past, but many struggled to find lasting popularity and eventually disbanded. Challenges like mandatory military service for male members and potential tension among different fanbases have created a perception that co-ed groups are difficult to sustain. Moreover, the idol industry's frequent use of "pseudo-romantic" marketing strategies doesn't translate well with co-ed lineups.
However, ALLDAY PROJECT feels different. Their emergence evokes the golden age of classic 1990s Korean co-ed groups such as Turtles, S#arp, Roo’ra, COOL, Space A, Young Turks Club, and Koyote. What sets them apart?
According to one music industry insider, Teddy’s production is key to their success. “Co-ed groups often come with an outdated image, but Teddy’s polished and modern sound completely cancels that out. More than anything, the music is just really good. Rather than generating awkward romantic tension, the group showcases synergy and team chemistry, which is a testament to Teddy’s talent,” they said.
The insider also pointed out that Annie’s background played a role in the group's viral popularity. “The fact that she’s known as the daughter of a major conglomerate naturally fueled public interest. The association with wealth and elegance helped shed the 'old-fashioned' image of co-ed groups,” they explained.
Annie is the eldest daughter of Jung Yoo-kyung, president of Shinsegae, one of Korea’s top retail conglomerates. She studied Art History at Columbia University and is currently on a leave of absence.
Written by Lee Seung Hun
Translated Lee So Yun
