Kim Jaejoong Clarifies TVXQ’s Real Rivals; Says BIGBANG Were Never Competitors

Former TVXQ member Kim Jaejoong recently made surprising revelations about his group’s rivalry during the peak of second-generation K-pop. In a candid conversation on his YouTube show JaeFriends, he dismissed long-held assumptions about TVXQ’s competition with YG Entertainment’s BIGBANG. Instead, he named another iconic group as their true rivals.

The episode featured WINNER members Kang Seungyoon and Kim Jinwoo as guests. While discussing their debut years, Jaejoong revealed he had little interaction with YG artists during TVXQ’s active days. When asked about BIGBANG, he clarified they were never seen as rivals despite both groups dominating the same era.

“Even with BIGBANG, things were a bit ambiguous. I never considered them rivals. They were just talented friends doing well on a different path. Our eternal rivals were SS501. Regardless of who was doing better, they were always our rivals.”

SS501, formed under DSP Media in 2005, shared a closer musical and visual style with TVXQ. Both groups leaned into melodic pop and synchronized performances, while BIGBANG pioneered a hip-hop-influenced sound. This distinction made SS501 a more direct competitor in Jaejoong’s view.

The rivalry between TVXQ and SS501 was intense during the mid-2000s. Fans often debated which group was superior, leading to heated fan wars. Jaejoong’s comments confirm these industry dynamics, putting to rest years of speculation about TVXQ’s relationship with BIGBANG.

Interestingly, Jaejoong mentioned he trained with SS501’s Heo Young-saeng at SM Entertainment before Young-saeng joined DSP Media. This personal connection added another layer to their professional rivalry. The friendly yet competitive spirit between the groups defined an era of K-pop.

BIGBANG, meanwhile, carved their own legacy with a distinct musical identity. Their hip-hop roots and self-produced tracks set them apart from traditional idol groups. Jaejoong’s remarks highlight how different their paths were, despite being contemporaries.

Netizens reacted strongly to Jaejoong’s revelations. Many agreed that SS501 and TVXQ were more comparable in concept, while BIGBANG stood in a league of their own. Others appreciated his honest take on industry relationships.

“This makes so much sense. TVXQ and SS501 were both about powerful vocals and sharp choreo, while BIGBANG was doing something completely different.”

“It’s refreshing to hear an idol speak openly about rivalries instead of giving diplomatic answers.”

The discussion also touched on how K-pop rivalries have evolved. Second-generation groups often competed directly on music charts and awards shows. Today, the industry focuses more on global expansion and digital metrics.

Jaejoong’s insights provide a rare look into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of peak 2000s K-pop. His perspective challenges long-standing narratives while honoring the legacy of all groups involved.

SS501 recently announced plans for a 2025 reunion to celebrate their 20th anniversary. This news adds another dimension to Jaejoong’s comments, reigniting interest in their historic rivalry with TVXQ.

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Source: Naver

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