We’ve gone through the worst idol group names so its only fair to credit the groups whose companies took the time to come up with creative names. Lets take a look at which 10 idol groups have the best name.

10. Shinhwa means “legend” and it couldn’t be more true. They are Korea’s longest-running boy band and are still going strong after 13 years. New KPOP fans may not be familiar with them but they have won numerous awards and achieved tremendous success during their active promotions as a group. Shinhwa is proof that the five years curse is not true for every group.

9. CSJH (Chun Sang Ji Hee) translates to “Heaven Above Wisdom Joy” which approximately means “Heavenly Wisdom and Happiness.” The group later added “The Grace” at the end to signal their change in music to a more “graceful” sound. In addition, the group name also represents the four members’ stage names: Chunmoo Stephanie, Sangmi Lina, Jisung Sunday, and Heeyeol Dana. I love the multiple meanings the group’s name has going on and it’s a wonderful and meaningful name.

8. Epik High is a unique and memorable name. Even before I listened to their songs, I knew their name because I heard it mentioned once before. It’s a name that sticks to you whether you like them or not.

7. Kara derived from the Greek word “chara” meaning “joy”, which can be interpreted to mean “sweet melody.” It’s simple and has a sweet meaning. The key to a great name is simplicity but with a touch of creativity added which is exactly what Kara is. It’s easy to remember and just rolls straight off your tongue.

6. One Way is interpreted as “One sound and One love.” The group’s goal is to create their own sound (one music) in the music industry through their passion for music (one love). Simple, and has a sweet meaning. The name didn’t need to use lame acronyms but is still a comprehensible English name that has a deep meaning. (Some companies need to learn from this!)

5. 2PM and 2AM may not sound too creative at first because you’re probably asking, “Why not 3PM and 3AM or any other time?”, but the meaning behind those numbers is very fitting of the two groups’ music styles. 2PM is the most active time of the day and the group produces music that pumps one’s energy up. Also, I thought their saying, “the hottest time of the day,” (which is true) and naming their fans “Hottests” was really clever. Meanwhile, 2AM is the most quiet time of the day which is why ballads during this time is very soothing. When we add up 2PM and 2AM, we get “One Day,” which is the name for the two groups together.

4. SS501 stands for “Super Star - Five Members United as One Forever.” The name uses numbers creatively and has a sweet and meaningful message. Although the group has halted their activities as five, they are still close friends and have all supported each others’ solo careers so they are still connected as one in a way. I also love the actual pronunciation of the name, “Double S five oh one.” It’s catchy, and fun to say. I can imaging myself cheering along with their fans during a concert even though I am not a huge SS501 fan.

3. 2NE1 stands for “New Evolution of the 21st Century,” but can also be interpreted as “To Anyone,” and “Twenty One.” The group is by far the fiercest female idol group in South Korea and their music is definitely a “new evolution of the 21st century.” I love that they’ve always stuck true to their own music style instead of going for the usual cute concept that practically every other girl group has done. The name is also easy to play around with and I love that they’ve taken advantage of that fact with the name of their fanclub (Blackjacks) and also release dates.

2. Big Bang is a befitting name for the group as they have created a “BIG BANG” or huge explosion in South Korea and various parts of Asia with their music. It’s simple, and isn’t very hard to remember. The only downside is that since it’s derived from the “Big Bang Theory”, it’s overshadowed by that popular theory/show and you would need to explain to non Big Bang fans that you’re referring to the Korean group and not the theory/show. Nevertheless, it is still a great name.

You’re staring at Yunho’s non-existense right nipple aren’t you?

1. DBSK (Dong Bang Shin Ki) literally translates to “Gods of the Rising East.” The name is powerful and gives off a good impression. Hearing fans chant out “DONG BANG SHIN KI” at concert gives me chills because the name has this strong and powerful ring to it. It’s also unique, and therefore isn’t overshadowed by something like meat on Google. The meaning may come off as arrogant at first but because the group has lived up to their name, it fits them perfectly.

Do you agree with the list? Which other group names do you think should have made the list?