3 years ago on August 28th, 2008, we were introduced to a new KPOP group, U-KISS. Even from their name they garnered attention, Ubiquitous Korean International (Idol) Super Star. Not only did these boys have the talent, the looks, but they also had an advanatage. They could easily communicate with overseas fans thanks to the members’ language skills.

Kevin grew up in California while Eli grew up in Washington D.C. and later lived in Beijing. Dongho lived in China when he was young, making him able to communicate in Mandarin. Kibum is able to speak Korean, Japanese, and conversational English and then there’s Alexander. Born in Macao, half Korean, quarter Chinese, and a quarter Portuguese. He is able to speak 7 languages, Cantonese, English, Korean, Mandarin, Spanish, Portuguese, and Japanese. Idol genius right here! Lots of members also had previous experience in the music industry. Kevin and Kibum were once a part of the group XING while Soohyun was a trainee under JYP Entertainment and Good Entertainment. Kibum was also known for being SS501’s Kim Hyung Jun’s little brother.

Alright, enough about their smarts and background, let’s talk about their career! The group’s first mini-album, “”New Generation“, was unleashed on September 3rd and U-KISS, then a 6 member group, promoted their title track, “Not Young“. Their second mini-album, “Bring It Back 2 Old School” was released a few months later in February and this time, they charmed their fans with “I Like You“.

With those two mini-albums, U-KISS established and maintained a boy next door image. That is, until the rise of “Man Man Ha Ni“! Later in November 2009, U-KISS unleashed their third mini-album and welcomed a new member of the group as well, Kiseop. He was instantly liked thanks to his good looks and his ulzzang title. For promotions this time, all 7 members dyed their hairs different colors and donned guyliner! While we’re at it, I want to say that Kevin and Eli looked amazing with blonde hair!

February 2010 came and the group unleashed their very first full length album, “Only One“. They edged away from that black and dark concept for “Bingeul Bingeul” into something a little more mature, but still dark. Later that year was when KISS MEs were given a heart attack. The group released “Break Time“, their fourth mini-album, and wowed fans once again with their title track, “Shut Up!!“.

However, it was a time of sadness because members Alexander and Kibum announced their departure from the group. The company cited it was for ‘personal reasons’ and fans somewhat believed that statement. But when right after their departure, the announcement of two new members came to light: AJ (former member of PARAN) and Hoon (a solo artist). Fans caused an uproar saying that NH Media kicked Alexander and Kibum out of the group to make room for the new members. The controversy died down a little after the newly arranged U-KISS released “Bran New Kiss“, their fifth mini-album. Their music took a trip down ballad road and wowed fans with the gorgeous song, “0330“. Now, the group is gearing up for their comeback in September with their second full length album, “Neverland“. Expectations are especially high after seeing the teaser and hearing one of the tracks off the album, “Someday”.

U-KISS is also known for their great variety skills. Kevin and Alexander were known to be permanent members on “Star King” and these two, along with Eli, were selected to be MCs for Arirang TV. The entire group has had numerous variety shows under the belt: You Know U-KISS, Vampire U-KISS, and Chef’s Kiss to name a few.

To me, this group is one of the most talented groups out there. Their vocals are amazing, their choreography never disappoints, and all of the members are dorky and lovable. But, these boys are terribly underrated. Three years in the industry, 1 full length album, and 5 mini albums, and U-KISS hasn’t won a single #1. Hopefully, with their comeback in a few weeks, that will all change. This is a group that truly deserves to win.

Also in celebration of U-KISS’ third anniversary, former member Alexander made some fans cry with his encouraging tweets. He tweeted, “Even though we are walking in our different ways, the fact is that we started together on 2008.08.28 and I will always be proud about it. :).” Be right back, sobbing my eyes out. Later he wrote, “Happy 3rd Anniversary U-KISS-ME! All the BEST for the comeback ^^ #3yearsofkisses @ukissSH @KiSSeop91 @u_kisseli @Kevinwoo91 @Dongho94 @90KKB.” It’s wonderful to see Alexander still backing up his boys and cheering them on!

Kevin later tweeted back, “Thanx Xander hyung! I will never forget our memories together as U-Kiss“@alexander_0729: Happy 3rd Anniversary All the BEST for the comeback”

Happy 3rd anniversary U-KISS! Thank you for debuting and letting us listen to amazing music. Thank you for giving us laughs with all your dorky antics and having no problem in showing your true selves.

So..when you guys win #1 this time, the timeline of my emotions will go a little something like this:

Let’s make that happen KISSMEs!

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