Stray Kids Overview

• Formation: South Korean boy band formed by JYP Entertainment.
• Members: Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, I.N. Former member: Woojin (left in October 2019).
• Production: Primarily self-produced, with main production team 3Racha (Bang Chan, Changbin, Han).
• Years Active: 2017 to present.
• Genres: K-pop, hip-hop, electronica.
• Labels: JYP Entertainment, Epic Japan, Republic Records.
• Website: straykids.jype.com

Band History

Formation and Early Years (2017-2018)

• 2017: Announced via reality survival show "Stray Kids" by JYP Entertainment. Music video "Hellevator" was released prior to the show's premiere.
• 2018: Debut EP "Mixtape" and official debut with EP "I Am Not" followed by "I Am Who" and "I Am You".

2019: Cl Series and Woojin's Departure

• Released Cl trilogy (Cl 1: Miroh, Cl 2: Yellow Wood, Cl: Levanter).
• Woojin left the band, release of "Astronaut" as an eight-member group.

2020: Japanese Debut and New Releases

• Japanese debut with SKZ2020.
• Released first studio album "Go Live" and its reissue "In Life".

2021: Noeasy and Kingdom

• Released second studio album "Noeasy".
• Won "Kingdom: Legendary War", gaining a reality show and Kingdom Week special.

2022: Global Expansion

• Signed with Republic Records for U.S. promotion.
• Released "Oddinary" and "Maxident" EPs, both topping the Billboard 200.

2023: Album Releases and Tours

• Released third studio album "5-Star", and debuted Japanese studio album "The Sound".
• Led the Maniac World Tour and performed at Lollapalooza Paris.

2024: Ate and More Achievements

• Released "Ate" EP and attended Met Gala.
• Announced contract renewals with JYP Entertainment.

Music and Artistry

Musical Style

• Known for "mala taste" music, combining hip-hop, dubstep, metal, electroclash, dance-pop.
• Embrace experimental and "noisy" sounds, focusing on innovative concepts and intense performances.

Songwriting

• Lyrics often focus on identity and self-discovery.
• 3Racha (Bang Chan, Changbin, Han) central in songwriting and production.

Performance and Concepts

• Recognized for powerful performances and innovative stage concepts.
• Participation in competitive shows like "Kingdom: Legendary War" highlights performance artistry.

Impact and Influence

• Featured on Time's 2023 Next Generation Leaders list.
• Recognized globally for music innovation and performance skills.
• Influences various emerging artists and groups.

Endorsements and Other Ventures

• Multiple brand endorsements from fashion to technology.
• Participation in global events like the Met Gala.
• Known as "Donation Idol" for philanthropic efforts.

Discography Highlights

• Korean Studio Albums: "Go Live", "Noeasy", "5-Star"
• Japanese Studio Albums: "The Sound", "Giant"

Summary

Stray Kids have become a significant force in the global music scene, known for their self-production, innovative music styles, and electrifying performances. With albums topping international charts and numerous accolades, they continue to expand their influence across the globe while maintaining a strong connection with their fanbase, known as STAY.