what matters more, domestic popularity or international popularity?

Overall I would say domestic popularity. Especially during times right now where it’s not easy for groups to rely on their international fandom.

In my opinion domestic matters the most having international popularity is a perk..

If they have the means, sure international popularity is better at this moment. However, not many companies can diverge their focus and resources on international markets. Investing in the domestic reach is more attainable. I guess a strong focus on social media could help on both markets. Still I don't see much knowhow for that yet.

Depends on the group. Being more popular internationally literally saved Wonho's career. Highkey doubt he would've survived the scandals and sell 100k with his solo debut if his fandom was mainly domestic. Like, no way.

Both are good. That said, I tend to think that a k-pop group cannot survive on only international popularity currently.

By international you meant EVERYWHERE except Korea?

Then of course international, Japan alone is better than Korea, let alone China, SEA and West included

domestic

People who are saying domestic matters more should take notice where kpop groups tours the most

Clue: It's not in Korea

both but go where the money is

both shouldnt be an option because obviously...

International obviously

domestic, what good is international popularity when you're a nugu at home

Domestic. Ifans tend to be multis, the moment new groups debuted they will jump to stan that group. They're not really loyal enough to stay with you for years and buy bulk of your albums. Kfans on the other hand are loyal af and they're willing to splurge their money for their idols.

Having domestic popularity is important. Good domestic sales could open up more international opportunities overseas. It doesn't always happen in that order for all groups. I watched an N'Sync biography that spoke on how the group became popular in Europe before the US.

I know companies would be all for a group being internationally popular first because of the bigger financial gains. If there are issues like: song quality control and "authentic" feeling music that hits on the same level or better than typical international Pop songs, I don't think the effort would be as successful as they would like. What really matters is making a profit or at least "breaking even". Learning how to pivot is a great skill for a company to have in challenging times like these.

Both. Domestic popularity should be a company's main focus until you can then use that fandom to expand overseas, kind of like what BTS did. If you don't have a core fandom in Asia, it'll be hard to trend internationally when you don't have any fans to help you.

Nothing good is going to come out of "having" western hype but little to no recognition in Korea. Which is kind of what's happening with groups like Everglow and NCT. They have digital achievements from international stans but no domestic appeal.

Whatever brings money