EXID’s Cinderella Story: The Rise from Underappreciated Debut to K-Pop Icons

EXID’s rise to fame wasn’t as smooth as their eventual stardom might suggest. Many see their success as a true Cinderella story, all because of perhaps the most iconic fan cam in K-Pop history! While “Up & Down” eventually cemented them as a powerhouse group, few people know just how close they were to disbanding. Their story is both an inspiration and a testament to the unpredictable nature of the music industry, demonstrating how one viral moment can change everything.

Table of Contents

• The Early Debut & Original Lineup
• Major Changes & Reformation
• Dark Days & Whispers of Disbandment
• The “Up & Down” Era & The Viral Fan Cam
• Why the Fancam Blew Up
• Legacy & Continued Success
• The Power of Fancams in K-Pop Culture
• Challenges: Health Issues and Hiatuses
• The Contract Renewals & Indefinite Hiatus
• Conclusion

The Early Debut & Original Lineup

Much like their smash hit “Up & Down,” EXID’s journey in the music industry was filled with ups and downs, especially during their early years. EXID debuted in 2012 under AB Entertainment, with their initial lineup consisting of Yuji, Hani, Haeryeong, Jeonghwa, LE, and Dami. This original roster included former JYP trainees and underground artists—individuals who had various types of music-industry experience but had yet to make a lasting impact on a major scale.

Even before they debuted, some fans had high hopes for the group due to certain members’ past training experiences. However, their first single, “Whoz That Girl,” barely made a ripple in the K-Pop scene, peaking at No. 36 on the charts. Competition was fierce: 2012 was a time when K-Pop was experiencing a surge in global popularity, with groups like Girls’ Generation, 2NE1, and Wonder Girls leading the wave. For a rookie group to stand out, they needed either a sensational concept or a breakout song—EXID didn’t quite have either at that moment.

Just two months after their debut, Yuji, Dami, and Haeryeong left the group, citing personal reasons and career shifts. Haeryeong later joined another girl group, BESTie, in 2013, further highlighting the challenges many idols face in the early years of their careers. The K-Pop industry is notoriously competitive, and lineup changes can sometimes make or break a fledgling group.

Major Changes & Reformation

The departure of three members left a void in EXID’s roster, prompting AB Entertainment to restructure the group. This shift in direction led to the addition of Solji and Hyerin, who stepped in to help reform EXID into the group most people know today. Interestingly, Solji wasn’t just a random addition—she was originally the group’s vocal trainer. She had prior experience as one-half of the vocal duo 2NB, a connection that would eventually become crucial for EXID’s distinct sound. Hyerin, on the other hand, had originally been cut from EXID’s lineup but was given a second chance, showcasing the unpredictable nature of how groups are formed in the K-Pop system.

With this new formation, the group released their first mini album, “Hippity Hop,” and the single “Every Night” in 2012. These releases were, in hindsight, strong indications of EXID’s potential: Solji’s and Hani’s vocal chemistry, LE’s rap skills, and Jeonghwa’s and Hyerin’s performance abilities gave them a well-rounded dynamic. Despite this, the group did not manage to establish themselves as a major force in K-Pop just yet. Fan meets had low attendance, and the media didn’t give them much coverage.

Many new idol groups debut each year, and it’s not uncommon for several to disband before ever making a name for themselves. By the end of 2012, EXID’s future seemed shaky at best. They had talent, but the industry wasn’t paying much attention.

Dark Days & Whispers of Disbandment

As time went on without a major breakthrough, rumors of disbandment started swirling. The group’s releases weren’t charting well, and they didn’t have a sizable fanbase to sustain them financially. While it’s common for rookie groups to struggle, EXID’s case looked particularly grim. Companies often reevaluate an idol group’s viability if they don’t pick up traction within a year or two, and for EXID, the clock was ticking.

Adding to the pressure was the fact that several notable girl groups were also thriving during this period, such as SISTAR, AOA, and Apink. These groups found at least moderate mainstream success, which only made EXID’s slow progress more disheartening. Behind the scenes, the members felt the weight of their uncertain future. According to various interviews, some members were already preparing to move on if they couldn’t turn things around soon.

In K-Pop, a group’s synergy, timing, and a bit of luck can make all the difference. EXID needed something to set them apart—a spark that would capture the public’s attention. Little did they know, that spark would come from an entirely unexpected source.

The “Up & Down” Era & The Viral Fan Cam

Everything changed in August 2014 when EXID released “Up & Down.” In the beginning, it looked like history repeating itself: the track initially failed to crack the top 100 on the Gaon Music Chart, and promotional activities wrapped up without any major buzz. For all intents and purposes, it was another disappointment, further fueling disbandment rumors.

Then came the viral fan cam of Hani performing “Up & Down.” Recorded in October 2014, this clip showed Hani’s magnetic stage presence, capturing every wink, smile, and fluid dance move. At a time when high-quality fancams were still somewhat of a novelty, this video seemed to strike a chord with curious viewers. The easy accessibility of social media played a huge role, enabling fans to share the clip rapidly, and it caught fire on multiple platforms.

The unexpected attention breathed new life into “Up & Down,” propelling it up the charts until it eventually reached No. 1 on Gaon. Music shows took notice, inviting EXID back to promote months after they had already ended the original promotion cycle—an almost unheard-of opportunity in K-Pop.

EXID finally found themselves in the spotlight, nearly three years after their debut. For fans and industry insiders alike, it was nothing short of miraculous. They secured their first music show win with “Up & Down,” and the group’s renewed momentum led to a surge in fan support, merchandise sales, and media coverage.

No wonder fans often call Hani’s fan cam “the moment that saved EXID.” It remains one of the most famous and frequently discussed stories in K-Pop, embodying the idea that one defining moment can flip an entire career trajectory.

Why the Fancam Blew Up

Since that moment, fans and critics have debated the reasons behind this fan cam’s explosive popularity. Some argue it all comes down to Hani’s natural charisma, as she demonstrated an undeniable connection with the camera and crowd, blending a playful demeanor with polished dance moves. Others credit the element of timing, pointing out that individual idol-focused videos were a rarity back then, allowing Hani’s performance to stand out from the more general stage mixes.

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Another factor often mentioned is the emotional backstory surrounding EXID. At the time, the group was on the brink of disbandment, giving the performance an unintentional, poignant context. Viewers who discovered the clip learned that these idols were essentially singing and dancing for their survival in a fiercely competitive industry. This underdog narrative often resonates with a broader audience, creating an emotional investment beyond typical fandom interest.

Furthermore, K-Pop’s digital presence was evolving rapidly around 2014-2015. More fans worldwide were connecting through Twitter, YouTube, and various other platforms. Hani’s fan cam arrived at a time when the international K-Pop community was searching for new content to share, discuss, and analyze. The viral spread didn’t just stay confined to Korean audiences; it broke out internationally, stirring curiosity among new fans who were intrigued by this “unheralded group” suddenly capturing headlines.

Finally, there’s an argument to be made about how the fan cam’s style contributed to its success. Instead of shaky handheld footage, the video offered a fairly clear view of Hani’s facial expressions, outfit, and choreography. In the early 2010s, such high-quality, single-idol-focused videos weren’t standard. This improvement in filming quality effectively personalized the idol experience for viewers, making it easier to feel a direct connection to Hani.

Legacy & Continued Success

The impact of the fancam didn’t end with “Up & Down.” EXID capitalized on their newfound fame with a string of follow-up releases. In 2015, they dropped “Ah Yeah,” which earned multiple music show wins and praise from industry critics. They began landing more international gigs, including a performance at the Korean Music Festival in the U.S. Their fanbase, fondly known as LEGGO, grew exponentially.

The “fancam phenomenon” itself became urban legend within the K-Pop community, with fans constantly referencing it as a prime example of how quickly fortunes can change. Media outlets interviewed the individual who filmed the fancam, and a rumor spread that EXID’s producer tried to invite him to dinner as a token of appreciation, only for him to allegedly decline, saying he was “busy” recording other girl group fancams. Though this story was later disputed and partially debunked, it added another layer of mystique and humor to the event. It illustrated how a single fan, almost by accident, could influence a group’s destiny.

Hani, for her part, found herself at the center of intense media attention. She guested on numerous variety shows, did magazine interviews, and expanded her personal brand beyond just being an idol performer. She was known for her intelligence, wit, and comedic timing on variety programs, drawing in new fans who might not have followed EXID’s music previously.

During a 2017 interview with Cosmopolitan Korea, Hani revealed how shocked she was upon first seeing the viral clip. She expressed gratitude towards the fan who had filmed it, crediting his or her effort with helping EXID finally break through. While many fans jokingly say that Hani’s winks saved the group, Hani herself remained humble, emphasizing that it was everyone’s collective effort that kept EXID afloat during those perilous times.

The Power of Fancams in K-Pop Culture

The sensational story of Hani’s fancam inevitably transformed how K-Pop fans and companies perceived fancams. Before EXID’s meteoric rise, fancams existed but were rarely seen as a make-or-break marketing tool. After “Up & Down,” however, these solo-focused videos became ubiquitous at idol performances. Both broadcasting companies and fans began producing or seeking high-quality individual fancams to highlight each member’s distinct charms.

Today, almost every performance by popular idol groups is followed by a flood of fancams—often shot by both professional camera operators and fans with high-end equipment. Some idols, such as BTS’s Jimin and BLACKPINK’s Lisa, have also soared in popularity due to viral fancams, mirroring EXID’s success. These videos allow fans to zero in on their bias or discover a new favorite member. They’ve also opened up new revenue streams for agencies, as more fans become invested in merchandise and concert tickets after falling in love with an idol’s fancam.

This fan-driven content underscores a larger shift in music consumption. Instead of relying solely on official music videos or variety show appearances, fans can connect directly with idols in a more intimate, one-to-one manner. Moreover, social media algorithms tend to favor unique or visually striking videos, making it easier for a fancam to gain traction. In essence, EXID’s viral success played a part in shaping the modern ecosystem of K-Pop media and fan interaction.

Challenges: Health Issues and Hiatuses

Despite their newfound fame, EXID’s career wasn’t free of obstacles. In late 2016, Solji was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, which led to an indefinite hiatus. This was a massive blow to the group, as Solji was not only a key vocalist but also had a leadership presence behind the scenes. Without her, EXID had to navigate promotions with only four members.

In 2017, the four-member EXID released “Eclipse” with the title track “Night Rather Than Day.” Despite the absence of their main vocalist, they garnered an impressive response, debuting at No. 4 on the Billboard World Albums Chart—their best ranking at the time. This resilience signaled to fans that EXID could adapt, even under difficult circumstances. Later that year, Solji participated in recording for the “Full Moon” mini-album but couldn’t join in promotional activities for “DDD.” Again, the group soldiered on, determined to keep their momentum.

All this demonstrated that EXID wasn’t just a one-hit wonder capitalizing on viral success. They had cultivated a supportive fanbase and proven their ability to release music that charted well, even when key members were sidelined. However, the lingering health complications also foreshadowed challenges that would arise as members considered their futures and the stability of group promotions.

The Contract Renewals & Indefinite Hiatus

By 2019, EXID’s contracts with Banana Culture were nearing their end, sparking concern among LEGGO and K-Pop watchers alike. Although the group had weathered earlier storms, the looming expiration of contracts is a common turning point for many K-Pop acts—the infamous “seven-year curse” is well-known for causing group disbandments or major lineup changes.

Hani and Jeonghwa chose not to renew their contracts but agreed to stay for the release of the “WE” album, which featured the title track “Me & You.” After promotions, the group went on an indefinite hiatus, with each member seeking new opportunities. By January 2020, Solji and Hyerin also left Banana Culture, leaving LE as the only member who remained at the label—though she too eventually departed, citing the need for creative freedom and better career management.

While EXID never officially announced a complete disbandment, it became clear that their group activities would be significantly scaled back, if not halted entirely. Individual members pursued solo albums, acting roles, variety show appearances, and other personal projects. The indefinite hiatus left fans with mixed feelings: sadness over the group’s uncertain future, but gratitude that EXID had reached heights many never believed possible.

Members have openly expressed their ongoing affection for one another and for their loyal supporters. Some have even organized events to give back to their fans, showing that the spirit of EXID remains alive, even if full-group comebacks remain in question.

Conclusion

EXID’s journey—from a rocky debut, to lineup changes, to near-disbandment, and ultimately to viral triumph—is one of K-Pop’s most compelling stories. They are the epitome of a Cinderella narrative in an industry often dominated by big-name labels and heavily promoted acts. Their initial struggles highlight how difficult it is to break through in K-Pop, but their eventual success showcases the power of serendipity and fan support. One spontaneous fan cam not only saved a group on the brink but also altered the course of K-Pop’s digital culture, ushering in a new era where a single performance clip can make or break an idol’s career.

Even though EXID’s future as a group remains uncertain due to contract changes and personal career moves, their legacy is secure. They proved that unwavering determination, consistent musical quality, and a little bit of viral magic can catapult even the most overlooked group into the public’s eye. Whether they stand onstage as a full group again or continue on separate paths, EXID’s mark on the K-Pop world is undeniable—and it all began with that one legendary fancam.