K-pop Group Scores First-Ever Music Show Win, Beating IVE After 8 Years

2025-03-04 10:09

Takes No. 1 on KBS’s ‘Music Bank’—A Milestone Achievement 2,766 Days After Debut

In a surprising turn of events, boy group ONF has claimed their first-ever major broadcast music show win—eight years after their debut—by surpassing IVE on KBS2’s Music Bank.

ATTITUDE - IVE アイヴ 아이브 [Music Bank] | KBS WORLD TV 250207. / Courtesy of YouTube KBS WORLD TV

On the March 28 episode of Music Bank, ONF’s latest track The Stranger took the top spot, edging out IVE for the win. The group secured victory with higher scores in broadcast plays, fan votes, and album sales, marking their first No. 1 on a major network music show since debuting in 2017.

IVE (from left to right): Gaeul, Jang Wonyoung, An Yujin, Liz, Leeseo,). / News1

This milestone comes just a week after their first-place win on MBC Every1’s Show Champion on March 21, showcasing the group’s steady rise. The achievement carries even greater significance as it is the result of years of perseverance, artistic evolution, and unwavering fan support.

Emotional Victory—ONF Members Express Gratitude

Following their win, the members took a moment to thank their fans. Leader Hyojin expressed his heartfelt gratitude, while MK acknowledged the staff and their families. Wyatt also shared his appreciation for everyone who has supported the group on their journey.

MK, U, E-Tion, Hyojin, J-Us, and Wyatt of ONF pose at the showcase for their second full-length album, ONF: MY IDENTITY Part.1, held at Blue Square in Yongsan, Seoul, on March 18. / News1

A Long Road to Success: 2,766 Days in the Making

ONF, a six-member group under WM Entertainment, debuted on August 3, 2017. Their name symbolizes the coexistence of two contrasting states—“ON” representing their powerful stage presence and “OFF” reflecting their individuality and charm off-stage.

Initially introduced as Oh My Girl’s brother group, ONF struggled to gain traction early on. However, their appearance on Mnet’s 2020 survival show Road to Kingdom helped boost their recognition. Their performance of We Must Love during the second round became a standout moment, praised for its theatrical concept featuring puppet and puppeteer imagery. Following the show, the song gained traction, earning ONF the reputation of a “hidden gem” group.

ONF: MY IDENTITY Part.1, held at Blue Square in Yongsan, Seoul, on March 18. / News1

The Post-Military Comeback & ‘The Stranger’

In 2021, ONF made headlines by enlisting together, with the exception of Japanese member U. After completing their service, they returned as a full group in April 2023 with Your Song. Now, their latest comeback with The Stranger has brought them their long-awaited first major music show win.

The Stranger is a funky pop track that showcases ONF’s dynamic vocal range. Its lyrics encapsulate a message of chasing dreams and forging one’s own path, infused with the group’s signature confidence and intensity.

온앤오프(ONF) 'The Stranger' MV. / YouTube, ONF OFFICIAL

With this achievement, ONF has proven that persistence pays off, turning years of dedication into a well-earned triumph. Fans continue to celebrate this landmark moment, eagerly anticipating what’s next for the group.