Why aren't 3 member groups that common in KPOP?

For me it feels a little empty even with 4 members. So 3 members make it even more empty.

Stan 3YE

I guess because it's easier to have a bigger group with subunits where you have a much larger chance of a member getting popular than with just a trio. Heck Orange Caramel was a subunit of After School

Positions. u need a specialist in visual, vocal, dance and a rapping

In a parallel universe I am part of a three-membered group

the idols individually would need a strong enough stage presence to pull off a 3 member group. many factors also come into play, but it's not like we have never seen 3 member subgroup.

Huuum, maybe they are thinking that if one member has to leave, the group would have to stop completely you know ?

Three member groups are aight if they do visuals better. 3YE is a pretty good one for sure.

I just think that the common formations like the chevron or a slash are easiest done with 5 members. 4 members make it a little awkward because its an even number but yea 3 ain't that bad.

Thinking it over more, each of the three members would almost need to have a stage presence of a solo, almost... That is really hard to do.

If there ever was a dream 3 member collab though, Chungha x Sunmi x Somi would have me through the roof tbh.

You're forgetting the two most famous three-member groups ever: Seo Taiji & Boys and S.E.S.

Quote from rainbowblink224

I feel like their not that common...groups are usually more than 4 members nowadays...does anyone know why?
I know Orange Caramel, Ladies Code and 3YE but those are about the only 3 member groups I can think of atm...

Ladies code did not want to be 3 members.

no room for visuals only members, two other ones can't compensate. Plus what if one leaves? or even just gets sick.

Little Mix are now a trio and they honestly blow all K-Pop groups out of the water, but all three are essentially soloist material (talented and gorgeous) and you kinda need that. No cheerleader effect with only 3.

I was thinking about this the other day while listening to BDC - I think they pull off 3 members really well and the choreo in Moon Rider looks really good with 3 members (granted, they do have back up dancers too).

Personally I'd like to see more 3 member groups because right now they're really rare. Like the other commenters said, I assume it's due to the group having to perform as a duo if there are schedule conflicts or health problems. Still, it's unique and fun!

SM's first girlgroup S.E.S was also 3 member group. i think it's because with more members fans get to see more group interactions and if someone leaves the group can still continue which is more important for boygroups because of enlistment which is why boygroups generally have more members on average than girlgroups.