They sold over 6 million albums in South Korea after releasing 5 studio albums. Their hit singles include Candy, Happiness, We Are The Future, Hope, Line Up, IYah, and Outside Castle. In 1997, they had the best selling album in South Korea with their 2nd album Wolf & Sheep, which sold 1.52 million, thus being the first group to achieve a disk daesang after 11 previous solo winners They won 13 daesangs in total, and in 1998, they were the first korean artist and group to sweep the awards on all 3 major broadcasting companies (KBS, MBC, SBS). On September 18th, 1999, due to their sizeable fanclub, they were the first korean artist to perform in the Jamsil Olympic Stadium, just after the release of their 4th album IYah! On February 1st, 2000, they performed in the Beijing Workers' Gymnasium in China, selling out the venue to approximately 12,000 screaming chinese fans. This concert was what the korean and chinese media refer to as the beginning of hallyu, and caused a major interest amongst chinese teenagers in korean culture. After selling out their 2nd Jamsil Olympic Stadium concert on February 27th, 2001, rumors were swirling about their contracts expiring with SM Entertainment. Although the members denied it, they officially held a press conference in May of that year to announce H.O.T's disbandment. This symbolized the end of the first generation kpop and caused a decline in idol group popularity in South Korea for several years. They were also not only successfully musically but also as a brand. They sold merchandise such as stickers, books, perfumes, dolls, panties, and even DNA necklaces. Although their run ended after 5 years, they left an indelible mark and impact on kpop that blazed the trail for future generations in terms of the way K-pop groups are assembled with each member having an important role in the group.
