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Laboum


Laboum (Korean: 라붐; stylized as LABOUM) is a South Korean girl group formed in 2014 under Global H Media. The group debuted on August 28, 2014, with the single album Petit Macaron, featuring the title track "Pit-A-Pat". Originally comprising six members—Yujung, Soyeon, ZN (later known as Jinyea), Haein, Solbin, and Yulhee—Laboum experienced lineup changes, with Yulhee departing in 2017 and Yujung in 2021, leaving the current quartet of Soyeon, Jinyea, Haein, and Solbin. The group transitioned to Interpark Music Plus and gained significant attention with their 2017 mini-album Miss This Kiss, particularly the lead single "Hwi Hwi", which marked their first music show win on Music Bank and topped several digital charts in South Korea. Laboum's career highlights include efforts for comebacks during periods of limited label support and a resurgence in popularity for older tracks like "" in 2021 following a cover by project group , leading to reverse chart success. In 2022, the group suspended team activities indefinitely, with members pursuing individual endeavors such as and solo music releases. Despite challenges, Laboum maintained a dedicated fanbase through consistent releases blending retro and contemporary pop elements.

History

2014: Formation and debut with Petit Macaron

Laboum was formed in by Global H Media, a between NH Media and Nega Network, as a six-member South Korean girl group comprising vocalists Yujeong, Soyeon, and ZN alongside rappers Haein, Solbin, and Yulhee. The group's name derives from the la boum, translating to "the party," intended to evoke a lively, youthful image. The group debuted on August 28, 2014, with their first Petit Macaron, which included the lead track "Pit-a-Pat" (also stylized as "Pitapat" or "Thumping") alongside B-sides "" and "What About You." The music video for "Pit-a-Pat" premiered on August 27, 2014, showcasing a bubblegum pop style with upbeat emphasizing the members' synchronized dances and aesthetics. Teasers for the release began circulating online around August 18, 2014, building anticipation through short promotional clips. Promotional activities for Petit Macaron ran from late August to early October 2014, including live performances on music programs that highlighted the song's refreshing, energetic composition. A repackaged version, Petit Macaron Data Pack, followed on November 3, 2014, adding new tracks but achieving modest sales of 608 copies in its first month per Gaon Chart data. The debut marked Laboum's entry into the competitive landscape as a act, though it garnered limited commercial traction initially.

2015: Sugar Sugar and Aalow Aalow

In 2015, Laboum released their second single album, Sugar Sugar, on March 26, containing the title track "Sugar Sugar" and B-side "R U Kiddin' Me" (장난햅니까). The upbeat, candy-themed "Sugar Sugar" emphasized the group's youthful, sweet image with playful lyrics and choreography, aligning with their established "sweet and sour" concept. The album achieved modest physical sales, with 1,091 copies sold in the first month and a total of 1,916 units in South Korea according to Gaon Chart data. Promotions included music show appearances, such as on Show Champion in October, where the group performed the track amid efforts to build visibility following their 2014 debut. Following an eight-month hiatus, Laboum returned with their third , Aalow Aalow, released digitally on December 6, 2015, after the music video premiered on December 2. The "Aalow Aalow" (아로아로) shifted toward a retro pop sound with funky, elegant elements, incorporating 1980s-inspired synths and a more mature choreography compared to prior releases. The album featured tracks including an intro, "Tasty," and instrumentals, with the group holding a comeback stage on Music Bank on December 4. In interviews, members described the promotion as a step toward showcasing growth, though physical sales data remained limited and indicative of ongoing challenges in gaining mainstream traction.

2016–2017: Fresh Adventure, Love Sign, Miss This Kiss, and Yulhee's departure

On April 6, 2016, Laboum released their fourth Fresh Adventure, which included the title track "" alongside tracks such as "" and an instrumental version of the lead single. The release marked the group's continued emphasis on upbeat, youthful pop sounds, though it did not achieve significant chart success at the time. On August 23, 2016, the group issued their first mini album Love Sign, comprising six tracks led by the single "Shooting Love" (also stylized as "Pyong Pyong"). Additional songs included and "Sweetly," maintaining Laboum's signature cute and energetic style. This EP represented a step toward more mature production compared to prior singles, under the management of Global H media. Laboum's second mini album, Miss This Kiss, followed on April 17, 2017, via NH Media, featuring the lead track "Hwi Hwi" and five other songs such as "Story Travel" and "The Light." The release shifted slightly toward brighter, seasonal themes aligned with promotions. On November 3, 2017, NH Media confirmed Yulhee's departure from Laboum, stating that she had repeatedly expressed her desire to end her entertainment career and that her contract had been terminated by mutual agreement. Yulhee had married FTISLAND drummer on September 22, 2017, and her exit followed a period of absence from group activities, later attributed in part to her . The agency emphasized apologies to fans while noting the remaining members' commitment to continue.

2018–2019: Participation in The Unit, Between Us, Japanese debut, I'm Yours, and Two of Us

In October 2017, Laboum members Yujeong, Haein, and ZN joined the KBS2 survival program The Unit: Idol Rebooting Project as contestants seeking to revitalize their careers. ZN achieved 8th place in the final ranking on February 10, 2018, earning her a position in the project's resulting temporary group UNI.T, which promoted until its disbandment in May 2018. Yujeong and Haein were eliminated earlier but gained visibility through the show's performances and challenges. Following the conclusion of , the remaining Laboum lineup—Yujeong, Haein, Solbin, and ZN—released their fifth single album Between Us on July 27, 2018, marking the group's return to promotions. The , "Between Us" (체온), featured a mature sound with themes of , produced in collaboration with staff input from the members, including Haein's contribution of a for concept development. Laboum expanded internationally with their Japanese debut under Nippon Columbia, releasing the single "Hwi Hwi" on November 7, 2018, in multiple editions including CD+DVD versions. Shortly after, on December 5, 2018, they issued their sixth I'm Yours, led by the "Turn It On," which emphasized upbeat elements and continued the group's shift toward more polished production. The period culminated in Laboum's first full-length Korean studio album, Two of Us, released on September 19, 2019, comprising 10 tracks with "Firework" as the lead single highlighting explosive pop melodies and group harmonies. This release incorporated contributions from external producers and reflected the quartet's evolving sound amid ongoing individual schedules.

2020–2021: Smile Pop Pop, breakthrough with Journey to Atlantis, Yujeong's departure, Blossom, and initial hiatus

In August 2020, Laboum participated in a collaboration with the children's entertainment brand BabyBus, releasing the single "Smile Pop Pop" (스마일팝팝) on August 25. The track, aimed at a younger audience with its upbeat, playful style, featured the group performing alongside animated characters, and its premiered on on September 3. Early 2021 saw a resurgence in popularity for Laboum's 2016 track "Journey to Atlantis" (상상더하기) from their single album Fresh Adventure, driven by viral challenges on that propelled it onto domestic charts such as and , where it peaked in the top 70 before fluctuating. The song's renewed streaming success and live performances, including on programs like in June 2021, marked a breakthrough moment for the group amid otherwise limited promotions. On September 8, , leader Yujeong announced her departure from Laboum via a handwritten letter posted on her personal , stating that her exclusive contract with Global H Media had expired after seven years and expressing gratitude to fans while opting not to renew. This reduced the group to four members: Haein, Solbin, , and Jinyeowool. Despite the lineup change, Laboum released their third mini album Blossom on November 3, 2021, with "Kiss Kiss" as the lead single promoting a vibrant, romantic concept. The album included five tracks and was their first project as a quartet, featuring a 72-page photobook and various photocards in physical editions released shortly after. On September 23, 2021, prior to Blossom's release, Joynews24 reported that Laboum would enter an indefinite hiatus, allowing the remaining members to prioritize solo endeavors while leaving open the possibility of future group activities under a new agency arrangement. The members had reportedly renewed contracts individually but shifted focus away from collective promotions amid agency transitions from Global H Media.

2022–present: Indefinite hiatus, agency transitions, and members' solo pursuits

In September 2022, following the termination of Interpark Music Plus's idol management division amid corporate restructuring after its acquisition by Yanolja, Laboum's four remaining members—Soyeon, Jinyea, Haein, and Solbin—ended their exclusive contracts with the agency and entered an indefinite group hiatus to pursue individual careers. Initial August 2022 reports of outright disbandment were denied by the agency, which stated no final decisions had been made, but the hiatus was confirmed on September 23 via JoyNews24, with members expressing intent to seek new agencies while retaining rights to use the Laboum name for solo endeavors. The members publicly affirmed the group had not disbanded and committed to balancing solo work with potential future promotions, though no collective releases have occurred as of October 2025. Soyeon signed with Chess International and debuted solo on March 29, 2024, with the digital single "Goodbye," a reflecting personal ; she had previously participated in the 2021 project group , releasing tracks like "At That Moment" under the alias Gaya_G. Solbin transitioned to , joining 935 Entertainment on April 23, 2025, after prior appearances as an MC and in shows like "Military Striker"; her move emphasizes dramatic roles over music. Haein aligned with RND Company, focusing on vocal and performance opportunities following survival show experiences, though specific releases remain limited. Jinyea, with fewer publicized ventures, appeared on programs like "" in early 2022, contributing to renewed interest in Laboum's catalog, but has maintained a lower profile amid agency transitions. Informal reunions, such as former member Yujeong attending Soyeon's November 2022 fan meeting, underscore ongoing member bonds despite the hiatus.

Members

Current members

Soyeon (정소연), born Jung Soyeon on May 4, 1994, serves as the leader and main vocalist of Laboum. She stands at 161 cm tall and has pursued solo endeavors, including a single release titled "" on October 21, 2025. Jinyea (진예), born Bae Jinyea on June 9, 1994, previously known as ZN, holds positions as main dancer, vocalist, and rapper. She measures 170 cm in height and changed her ahead of planned group activities announced in 2021. Haein (해인), born Yeom Haein on May 19, 1995, performs as lead dancer, vocalist, and rapper. At 164 cm tall, she has appeared on survival programs such as . Solbin (솔빈), born Ahn Solbin on August 19, 1997, is the maknae, visual, lead vocalist, and rapper. Standing at approximately 169 cm, she has engaged in and individual promotions alongside group membership. The four members renewed their contracts post-2021 lineup changes and affirmed in 2022 that Laboum remains active despite an indefinite hiatus focused on solo pursuits, with no disbandment.

Former members

Yulhee (born November 27, 1997) joined Laboum at debut as main rapper, main dancer, and sub-vocalist. She departed the group on November 3, 2017, after repeatedly expressing to her agency a desire to exit the entertainment industry, with Global H Media confirming no plans for further group activities on her part. Yujeong (born February 14, 1992) served as leader and from the group's formation in 2014 until her exit. Her seven-year contract with NH Media expired on August 27, 2021, after which she chose not to renew and announced her departure via handwritten letter on Instagram on September 8, 2021, citing a decision to pursue individual paths while expressing gratitude for her time with Laboum. Following her exit, she continued solo endeavors under Moden Berry until parting ways with the agency on March 26, 2025.

Membership timeline

LABOUM debuted on August 28, 2014, with an original lineup of six members: Yulhee, Yujeong, Soyeon, ZN, Haein, and Solbin. The group maintained this sextet formation through their early releases until Yulhee's departure on November 3, 2017, reducing the active lineup to five members as she cited a desire to exit the entertainment industry. LABOUM then proceeded with quintet promotions for subsequent activities, including participation in the survival show The Unit in 2017–2018. In September 2021, following the expiration of her contract, leader Yujeong announced her withdrawal from the group via a handwritten letter on September 8, marking the second major lineup change and leaving LABOUM as a quartet of Soyeon, ZN, Haein, and Solbin. No new members have joined since the group's formation, and the remaining members have focused on solo endeavors amid an indefinite announced in 2021, with occasional group reunions for events but no full-scale activities as of 2025.
Year(s)YulheeYujeongSoyeonZNHaeinSolbin
2014–2017MemberMemberMemberMemberMemberMember
2018–2021Departed (Nov. 3, 2017)MemberMemberMemberMemberMember
2022–presentInactiveDeparted (Sep. 8, 2021)MemberMemberMemberMember

Artistry

Group concept and visual identity

Laboum's name, stylized as LABOUM (라붐), originates from the French term "boum," denoting a lively party, directly inspired by the 1983 French coming-of-age film , which achieved notable popularity in during the and influenced the group's festive thematic foundation. Formed through a between NH Media and Nega Network under Global H Media, the group was positioned to deliver a distinctive concept emphasizing energetic, explosive appeal that sets it apart from prevailing tropes, aiming to evoke a sense of uninhibited celebration and youthful dynamism. This party-centric ethos was intended to permeate their music and presentations, fostering an image of vibrant, bomb-like charisma capable of captivating audiences. The group's visual identity centers on colorful, playful aesthetics that align with their debut era's bright and whimsical styling, as showcased in the music video for "Pit-A-Pat" from their 2014 Petit Macaron, which featured pastel tones, retro-inspired outfits, and motifs evoking patisserie charm. Subsequent releases evolved this foundation by integrating cute-sexy elements, characterized by form-fitting attire, dynamic poses, and a blend of innocence and sensuality in promotional imagery, particularly evident in tracks like "H.O.T" and "Between Us." Branding consistency includes designs incorporating explosive motifs and bold to reinforce the "boom" implication, though the group has periodically adapted visuals to match conceptual shifts, such as mature elegance in later mini-albums like Blossom. This adaptability maintains core vibrancy while reflecting member-driven maturity, prioritizing photogenic appeal and stage presence over rigid uniformity.

Musical evolution and influences

Laboum's musical style originated in the bubblegum pop genre with their 2014 debut single "Pit-A-Pat," characterized by percussive production, upbeat rhythms, and a large, anthemic designed to evoke youthful energy and cuteness. This early sound aligned with mid-2010s trends emphasizing bright, accessible melodies suitable for groups targeting teen audiences. By 2015, the group shifted toward retro pop influences in tracks like "Aalow Aalow," incorporating nostalgic elements such as vintage synths and playful hooks to signal a maturing aesthetic while retaining pop catchiness. The 2016 single "" marked a pivot to with airy, layered vocals and fizzy electronic production, evoking comparisons to early Girls' Generation's ethereal soundscapes, though grounded in crisp beats and fantasy-themed lyrics for broader appeal. This track's rock-infused pop structure highlighted Laboum's growing experimentation with dynamic choruses and instrumental builds, contributing to its later viral resurgence in 2021 via streaming platforms./) Subsequent releases like 2017's "Hwi Hwi" refined this into uptempo , featuring hooks, synth-driven verses, and relentless energy to emphasize group synergy and live performance potential. By their 2021 album Blossom, Laboum incorporated city pop elements, particularly in "How I Wish," with guitar strumming, fuller vocal arrangements, and a dreamy, retro-futuristic vibe drawing from 1980s Japanese urban pop aesthetics adapted to K-pop's polished production. This evolution reflects a progression from initial cute-concept pop to more versatile, genre-blending dance and synth tracks, prioritizing vocal layering and melodic hooks amid lineup changes and agency shifts. Influences include first-generation group Fin.K.L, whom Laboum cited as a role model for sustained careers and individual artistic growth post-group activities. The group's sound has consistently prioritized empirical listener engagement through chart performance and fan feedback, rather than rigid genre adherence.

Discography

Korean releases

LABOUM debuted in the Korean market with the single album Petit Macaron on August 28, 2014, under Global H Media, featuring the lead track "Pit-A-Pat". A repackaged version, Petit Macaron Data Pack, followed on November 3, 2014, adding new tracks to the original lineup. The group continued with single albums Sugar Sugar in 2015 and Aalow Aalow on December 6, 2016, both emphasizing upbeat pop sounds typical of early K-pop girl group releases. Fresh Adventure, their fourth single album, arrived on April 6, 2016, introducing "Journey to Atlantis" as a title track that later gained renewed attention in 2021 via social media virality.
TypeTitleRelease DateLabel
Single AlbumPetit MacaronAugust 28, 2014Global H Media
RepackagePetit Macaron Data PackNovember 3, 2014Global H Media
Single AlbumSugar SugarOctober 20, 2015Global H Media
Single AlbumFresh AdventureApril 6, 2016Global H Media
Mini AlbumLove SignAugust 23, 2016Global H Media
Single AlbumAalow AalowDecember 6, 2016Global H Media
Digital Single"Winter Story"December 2, 2016Global H Media
Mini AlbumMiss This KissApril 17, 2017Global H Media
Single AlbumBetween UsDecember 5, 2018Global H Media, NHN Bugs
Studio AlbumTwo of UsSeptember 19, 2019Global H Media, NHN Bugs
Digital Single"Smile Pop Pop" (with BabyBus)August 25, 2020NHN Bugs
Digital Single"Cheese"December 24, 2020Interpark Music Plus
Mini AlbumBlossomNovember 3, 2021Interpark Music Plus
Digital Single"White Love"December 17, 2021Interpark Music Plus
LABOUM's first mini album, Love Sign, marked their entry into extended play format on August 23, 2016, followed by Miss This Kiss on April 17, 2017. Their sole studio album to date, Two of Us, was issued on September 19, 2019, under Global H Media and NHN Bugs, containing solo tracks from members Yujeong and Soyeon alongside group songs like "Firework". Post-2020 releases shifted toward digital singles amid group hiatuses, including the collaborative "Smile Pop Pop" with BabyBus on August 25, 2020, and Blossom as their final mini album on November 3, 2021, under Interpark Music Plus. These later works reflect reduced physical output, aligning with agency transitions and member solo activities.

Japanese releases

LABOUM debuted in the Japanese market with their first single, Hwi Hwi, released on November 7, 2018, under Victor Entertainment. The release featured the title track "Hwi Hwi" in its version, alongside renditions of earlier songs "Sugar Pop" and "Shooting Love", with versions included; it was available in multiple editions, including limited CD+DVD versions containing music video content and off-shots. This marked the group's initial foray into following their activities. The group followed with their debut Japanese studio album, Love Pop Wow!!, on April 24, 2019, compiling re-recorded Japanese versions of select Korean tracks and new material. The album's tracklist comprised: 1. "Love Is Magic", 2. "BowWow!!", 3. "My Name Is..", 4. "Between Us (Japanese Ver.)", 5. "Breathing", 6. "Sugar Pop", 7. "Shooting Love (Japanese Ver.)", and 8. "Killer Killer Tune (Japanese Ver.)"; it was issued in three physical versions, emphasizing vocal and dance elements consistent with the group's style. No subsequent Japanese releases have been issued as of the group's indefinite hiatus.

Notable soundtrack contributions

LABOUM members have provided vocals for several Korean drama soundtracks, with leader Soyeon contributing the most prominently. In 2017, Soyeon released "I Feel Love" as Part 4 of the Hospital Ship OST, a ballad reflecting themes of emotional healing that aired on MBC from August to October that year. Soyeon's involvement continued in 2021 with "You & I" (그대와), a duet with GOT7's Youngjae featured as Part 7 of the My Roommate Is a Gumiho OST, released on July 8; the track, composed by MonoTree, emphasizes longing and connection, aligning with the fantasy romance series on iQIYI and Viki. Later that year, she sang "Your Thoughts" (당신 생각) for the KBS2 historical drama Youth of May, part of its OST album highlighting personal reflections amid 1980s Gwangju events. In 2022, Soyeon contributed "Starlight" to the JTBC drama If You Wish Upon Me, serving as the second soundtrack part and underscoring themes of hope in its social narrative. Solbin participated in project group Cotton Candy's OSTs for JTBC's IDOL: The Coup, including "Honest" from Part 2 (November 2021), a motivational track tied to the survival show's competitive format. These efforts demonstrate individual member extensions of LABOUM's musical presence into television narratives, though the group as a unit has not released collective soundtrack singles.

Videography

Music videos

Laboum's music videos have accompanied their title tracks since debut, emphasizing vibrant choreography, colorful aesthetics, and thematic narratives aligned with the songs' pop and electronic influences. Early videos established a cute, youthful image, evolving toward more dynamic and conceptual storytelling in later releases. The debut for "Pit-a-Pat" (두근두근), released on August 27, 2014, showcased the original six-member lineup in schoolgirl outfits performing synchronized dances against simple backdrops, capturing the track's fluttering heartbeat motif. "Shooting Love" (푱푱), the title track from their first mini-album Love Sign, premiered on August 22, 2016, dividing the members into opposing teams in a whimsical using heart-shaped weapons on pastel sets, highlighting playful competition and visual effects to symbolize romantic pursuit. The "Hwi Hwi" (휘휘) video, dropped on April 16, 2017, for their second mini-album, featured whistling hooks and a of pining for a , with members in casual attire navigating urban and indoor scenes to convey breezy summer vibes. "Only U" (두바둡), released July 25, 2017, shifted to a flirtatious concept with bold styling and visuals emphasizing sharp amid neon-lit environments. Between Us (체온), the July 27, 2018 single's video, directed by Yoo Sung-kyun, portrayed intimate themes through shots and sensual dances in dim lighting. "Turn It On" (불을 켜), from May 9, 2019, introduced a storyline with guest appearances by and UNB's Jun, blending horror elements with dance breaks in abandoned settings. Later videos, such as "Kiss Kiss" on November 3, 2021, maintained high-production values with harmonious group dynamics and feel-good visuals. Japanese versions, like "Hwi Hwi" on October 10, 2018, adapted originals with localized lyrics while retaining core choreography.

Concert and live performances

Laboum's live performances have primarily occurred on South Korean music television programs, such as , Music Bank, and , where the group stages promotional sets for their single releases, often featuring synchronized and live vocals. These appearances, numbering in the dozens across their career, serve as key promotional vehicles in the industry, with episodes broadcast weekly and archived on platforms like for global viewership. The group has also participated in multi-artist concerts and festivals, including an early overseas event at the KISPINOY Grand Launch in , , on April 22, 2015, alongside at the Activity Center. In , Laboum performed at the SKY Festival 2016 on September 3 at Culture Park. A notable large-scale appearance was at the 28th Dream on June 18, 2022, at Seoul's , where they delivered a set including "Journey to Atlantis" before an audience of tens of thousands. Laboum joined charitable and special events, such as the "We All Are One – Stop War" online on March 26, 2022, to support amid the , broadcast via platforms like Red Angel Cushion Live. They also appeared at the 2021 Next Level by Arirang Radio, performing "Kiss Kiss." Unlike major acts with extensive arena tours, Laboum's activity reflects their mid-tier status, focusing on broadcast and event slots rather than solo fan concerts or international tours, with no headlining dates announced as of 2025.

Other activities

Endorsements and ambassadorships

LABOUM has secured several commercial endorsements, primarily with brands targeting younger audiences. In 2016, the group featured in a promotional advertisement for , depicting the members using the service at various retail locations such as bakeries and toy stores to highlight its convenience. The group has also endorsed food chains, aligning with their youthful image. In 2017, LABOUM served as models for Ttobongyi Tongdak, a brand, appearing in promotional videos released on 1. In February 2022, following renewed popularity from their 2016 track "Hwassal" gaining traction, they were selected as models for Gongman Chicken, another brand, capitalizing on their increased visibility. Additionally, LABOUM acted as exclusive models for Sinjeon , a spicy chain, with album promotions including discount coupons tied to the brand. While individual members like Solbin have taken on separate ambassadorships, such as for the fashion e-commerce site Enter Six in November 2017, group-level deals have focused on accessible consumer products rather than luxury or global endorsements. No formal international ambassadorships have been reported for the group as a whole.

Media appearances

Laboum members have appeared on various South Korean variety programs, often highlighting their vocal talents or group dynamics. The group served as panelists across multiple episodes of the singing competition in 2016. In May 2021, their 2016 song "" surged in popularity after being covered by the project group MSG Wannabe's top members on MBC's (also known as How Do You Play?), prompting the track to top domestic charts and leading to Laboum's return performances on programs like MBC's . Member Jinyea further boosted the song's visibility with a guest appearance on the same variety show in March 2022. Individual members have ventured into acting roles in dramas and films. Solbin debuted as an actress in the 2016 KBS Drama Special episode of The Sound of Your Heart, marking her entry into scripted television. She later took on her first lead film role in Only I Can See You (2021), a supernatural romance. Haein made special guest appearances as a girl group member in the SBS drama Backstreet Rookie in July 2020, alongside roles in Gangnam Scandal (SBS, 2018–2019) and Imitation (KBS2, 2021). These appearances reflect members' efforts to expand beyond music into acting amid the group's shifting lineup and reduced promotions post-2019.

Performance and reception

Commercial metrics and chart success

LABOUM's physical album sales in South Korea remained modest throughout their career, with Gaon Chart data indicating cumulative totals of 2,793 copies in 2014, 3,971 in 2015, 6,666 in 2016, 31,472 in 2017, and 13,906 in 2018, followed by lower figures in subsequent years. The group's commercial peak occurred with their second mini-album Miss This Kiss, released on April 17, 2017, which sold 30,582 copies in the first half of that year and debuted at number one on the weekly Gaon Album Chart. This success was driven primarily by physical sales, enabling the title track "Hwi Hwi" to secure LABOUM's first music show win on KBS's Music Bank on April 28, 2017, despite limited digital performance. The "Hwi Hwi" single failed to enter the top 100 of the Gaon Digital Chart, reflecting weaker streaming and download metrics compared to contemporaries, though earlier tracks like "Journey to Atlantis" (2016) reached number 14 on the same chart. The Miss This Kiss chart-topping album performance sparked accusations of sajaegi (chart manipulation through bulk purchases), as initial sales surged to over 28,000 copies before sharply declining, raising questions about the sustainability and authenticity of the metrics. Subsequent releases, such as the 2021 EP Blossom, generated negligible sales and no notable chart entries, underscoring LABOUM's niche appeal without broader breakout commercial traction. No LABOUM releases have registered on international charts like Billboard's Korea or global rankings.

Critical assessments and industry context

Critics have generally assessed Laboum's as competent but unremarkable within the landscape, often highlighting solid vocal delivery and catchy hooks overshadowed by formulaic production. For instance, their single "Hwi Hwi" was praised for executing elements effectively, ticking conventional boxes without innovation, though its generic sound limited broader appeal. Similarly, the 2018 track "Between Us" received commendation for its mature, alluring arrangement and slow-burn hook that builds to an understated vocal climax, yet it was critiqued for not fully capitalizing on the group's strengths amid external controversies. Reviews of later releases like 2019's "Firework" noted sluggish verses reminiscent of other acts such as , while 2021's mini-album Blossom was described as dreamy but a missed chance to build on prior sleeper hits, earning a middling three-star rating for lacking bold progression. Laboum's industry positioning reflects the challenges faced by acts under smaller labels in South Korea's hierarchical ecosystem, where dominance by conglomerates like , YG, and JYP constrains mid-tier groups' visibility and resources. Debuting in 2014 under Global H Media—a with limited promotional firepower—Laboum struggled with inconsistent concepts and member lineup changes, peaking commercially between 2015 and 2017 before fading amid saturated competition. A 2017 sajaegi (chart manipulation) , triggered by a sharp album sales spike for Miss This Kiss (from prior lows to over 20,000 units), drew accusations of artificial boosting via bulk purchases, which the agency firmly denied, attributing gains to organic fan support and broadcasts; however, it fostered persistent sentiment and eroded trust in their metrics. This episode underscores broader realities, where smaller entities often resort to aggressive tactics to compete, yet face amplified scrutiny and long-term reputational damage in an industry reliant on verifiable streaming and sales data for survival.

Fan reception and cultural impact

Laboum's dedicated fanbase, officially named —a portmanteau derived from "Laboum" and the word "beauté" ()—has remained notably small yet loyal since the group's debut, enabling sustained activities despite limited mainstream breakthrough. Fans have actively supported comebacks through platforms, such as a 2016 Makestar campaign for production that met its funding goal in under four hours and another in 2019 that exceeded the target by 429%. This funding reflects a committed willing to invest directly in the group's output, contrasting with the financial backing typical of larger agencies. The group's reception has been particularly strong among Korean military personnel, earning Laboum the informal reputation as a "military favorite" through frequent base performances and survey results naming them the top girl group soldiers wished to see live. In a 2017 poll, soldiers ranked Laboum highly alongside groups like Oh My Girl, attributing this appeal to their energetic performances and relatable image during service-oriented events. However, their 2017 Music Bank win for "Hwi Hwi"—the first for the group—sparked controversy and sajaegi (chart manipulation) accusations from some netizens, though the program's staff affirmed the result's legitimacy based on transparent scoring. Laboum members expressed gratitude to fans amid the backlash, highlighting the win's significance for their underdog status. Culturally, Laboum exemplifies the niche endurance of smaller K-pop acts, with tracks like "" (2016) experiencing delayed virality in 2021—mirroring Brave Girls' "Rollin'" resurgence—driven by nostalgia and algorithmic rediscovery on platforms like . This fan-fueled revival underscores how dedicated subsets of audiences can propel lesser-known songs to chart success years later, influencing perceptions of 's long-tail potential beyond initial promotions. Their reliance on soldier engagements has also contributed to the broader ecosystem of entertainment in , where idol visits boost morale and visibility for acts outside the top tier. Despite limited awards—such as a 2018 K-Pop Singer Award—their trajectory highlights fan-driven sustainability in an industry dominated by mega-groups.