Most people who listen to kpop are only casual fans. Even if you would die for your bias group that doesn't make you a kpop fan.
Fans of every other genre can name dozens of artists from decades ago and even listen to them today while also listening to current music.
90% of people today only listen to current kpop. If you cant name at least 10 artists/groups from 15+ years ago then you aren't a kpop fan.
Country fans, rock fans, rap fans, all can list off dozens of great artists from the past.
Why can't you do that with kpop?