In the world of K-Pop, leadership is typically viewed as something of utmost importance. The leader of each K-Pop group isn’t expected to simply play the leader figure towards one’s groupmates; the leader must also become the public voice for his or her respective group and carry out the role with immeasurable maturity. For some leaders who were simply given the position because they are the oldest members of their groups, they may feel the burden. Imagine living in a world where all eyes are on you, and one wrong move by any of your groupmates reflects directly on your own abilities. While the pressure to maintain your own image may be stressful enough, there is added pressure to maintain the group’s image as well. What, then, does it take to be an effective leader? Is it possible to have more than one such leader in a group?
Most people understand the definition of a leader to be “someone who leads”. In fact, even Merriam-Webster provides us with this very simplistic definition. However, leadership studies often teach us that being a leader isn’t as simple as that; rather, they teach us that a leader is someone who influences others towards achieving a common goal. In order to better understand what it means to be a leader, it is necessary to understand what it means to be a manager. Leadership studies also teach us that managers are those who accomplish organizational goals in an efficient and effective manner through the efforts of subordinates. To put it simply, a leader’s main focus is people, while a manager’s main focus is the task at hand. This makes an effective leader someone who focuses on those involved while completing what needs to be done.
The episode of SBS Strong Heart that aired on December 15, 2009 is well-known in K-Pop as the episode in which Taeyeon spoke about her desire to step down as the leader of Girls’ Generation. While she stated that she would like the members to manage themselves, it appears that Taeyeon’s words weren’t without further justification. As the years went by, it became more evident to fans and non-fans alike that the members of Girls’ Generation treated each other like family and that they viewed each other as equals. From a leadership perspective, Taeyeon’s “resignation” came about as a transformation from one type of leader to another as she attempted to step away from the leader image in order to let the other members shine.
To this day, if you ask any SONE who the leader of Girls’ Generation is, most will name Taeyeon without a second thought. Even after speaking about her insecurities as the leader of Girls’ Generation, Taeyeon has continued to grow and transform as a leader. She continues to play the role, not just to Girls’ Generation members but to SONE as well. A few examples of her leadership can be seen in the fanmade video below.
However, there are those who continue to criticize her ability to lead. Some believe that she isn’t a good leader because other members have become the voices of the group. Others criticize her timid personality and lack of presence, stating that a good leader can’t be found in such a person. However, being the opposite of Taeyeon doesn’t necessarily make a person a great leader. Many of history’s most effective leaders were also the type of people who wouldn’t have been considered leaders at all, yet they succeeded in their respective fields through perseverance, humility, and good will. These individuals can be identified as Level 5 Leaders.
A Level 5 Leader is someone who possesses a working combination of personal humility and great professional will. Many of those identified as Level 5 Leaders were not the idealistic picture of a leader; rather than being charismatic, larger-than-life extroverts, these individuals were quiet, slightly off-beat, and awkward. However, despite their lack of pretense, they sought to achieve great things. Level 5 Leaders ask for help when it is needed and give credit where credit is due rather than reveling in success. They understand the strengths and weaknesses of their teams’ members and allow those members to showcase their strengths whenever possible. They lead by example and display endless passion for what they do.
Taeyeon is undoubtedly a Level 5 Leader. On the December 15, 2011 episode of “Happy Together”, Taeyeon was asked if she had any desire to become a solo artist. She replied, “No, I’m doing fine in a group thanks to all the other members… The other members help to cover up for the things I lack in. I think I’m more fit for group activities as compared to being a soloist.” Despite being the main vocalist of Girls’ Generation, she feels that all members play equally important roles in the group. She never forgets to include the fans as an integral part of the group, frequently thanking SONE using her iPad and through acceptance speeches. Her humility is truly unrivaled. Her will is the will of Girls’ Generation – a never-ending drive to work hard in order to present the best possible image.
Taeyeon thanks fans for showing their support for Girls’ Generation.
This isn’t to say that Taeyeon is the only leader-type in Girls’ Generation or that the only way to lead is by being a Level 5 Leader. Each member of Girls’ Generation possesses her own individual style of leadership. Jessica is known for being very straight-forward and honest. While some may not appreciate honesty, it is one of the most important qualities a leader can possess. Trust is built on honesty, and followers follow a leader who is trustworthy. Sunny is jokingly referred to as “60Sunny“, the grandmother of Girls’ Generation, by the other members, due in part to her well-rounded knowledge and aged personality. This may not be the only reason though, as Sunny is one to take good care of her members, an act that may be described as paternal leadership. Tiffany, also known as Ti-manager and Manager Hwang, appears to have the mindset of an all-around businessperson. Likely to become a future CEO, she possesses both leadership and managerial characteristics that seamlessly coexist. Hyoyeon consistently motivates the other members and even fans with her wit and charm. Her natural ability to understand the moods of those around her and transform the atmosphere to a positive one makes her a good leader. Yuri is also the type to motivate others, but she does so through her own self-motivation. She’s the type to work hard in whatever she does, which further inspires others to do the same. Sooyoung, a member who speaks well and is practically fluent in three languages, has become the voice of Girls’ Generation, speaking at SMTOWN press conferences where mostly group leaders were present. She is the type to adapt to a situation rather quickly and steps up when it is necessary. As the “center” of Girls’ Generation, Yoona had to take on great responsibility even before the group debuted. She persevered through the toughest of storms and continues to work as hard as ever. She leads by example, proving that you shouldn’t let anything stop you from achieving your goals. Seohyun is, without a doubt, a born leader. Her conviction and self-discipline are strong, and she usually tries to do what she believes is best for herself and others. Perhaps one day she’ll become a government leader or something far greater.
The influx of new K-Pop groups has given rise to new traditions in the K-Pop world. A large number of the newly debuted groups don’t have an official leader; that it isn’t to say that they don’t have a leader whatsoever, though. Leadership is common, and in many cases, it is situational, meaning that certain individuals step up when it is deemed necessary. In the end, there really isn’t one “right” way to lead; the only measure of leadership ability is how effective a group is at achieving its goal.
Disclaimer: Views expressed are solely those of the author and are not representative of the Soshified community as a whole.
Photos and Video by: Akino_Makoto@soshified, SMTOWN Facebook, [email protected]
Written by: Akino_Makoto@soshified
Edited by: SeraphKY@soshified, moonrise31@soshified, taengsoshi@soshified, kt01@soshified, MoonSoshi9@soshified
Have a news item that you think Soshified should know about? Leave us a tip or e-mail us at [email protected].
Follow us on Twitter – http://twitter.com/soshified – for the latest on Girls’ Generation.
For other promotions, checkout https://loanload.co.uk/cash-loans/to-your-door-for-unemployed/ if you need emergency financial assistance.
nice+great
that video almost made me cry. She is such a silent leader. It is in who she is to lead and while she may not like the burden that comes with it Taeyeon is a caring person who leads with love of her members, not because she has to. Leading the members forward so they have camera time is a simple gesture that reminds everyone that Girls’ Generation is Forever 9.
I agree that all of the members are leaders in their own way and what makes them so great – as people, idols, leaders, and as a group – is that they are all so different but they have what the others may lack. Using my bias as an example, Tiffany may love to talk but often comes off misunderstood because she is so innocent. Seohyun may speak well but people are often more amazed by how well she speaks for her age rather than what she is saying. And since many of the other members do not like to speak (Taeyeon, Jessica for sure) Sooyoung can easily step up and be well spoken, kind, funny, heartfelt and entrancing which is Girls’ Generation.
I agree so much with what was mentioned here and I am glad that someone took the time to write out the truth of leadership in SNSD, KPop and life.
I couldn’t have agreed more!!!! SNSD, as a whole, work very well together, like Taeyeon said, it’s better to work as a group in comparison to being a soloist. I’d definitely agree on that part, especially when if there’s something big that you’d have to finish by a set date (like a project that requires 4+ people for school or work), something you can’t do alone. It’s what makes Girls Generation, well, Girls Generation, a time for all of them to shine and bloom when going into the future!
I’m glad I wasn’t the only one feeling like that. I mean I can do things a leader would be capable of, but just not like on a professional level. This is an article I can agree with! :)
Thanks for the fun read. It’s important for people to understand that real leadership isn’t just for business execs and military officers, but that certain people in any position can be leaders. And while I don’t believe that idol leaders make a great case study for leadership, since most of what we know of them is taken from a camera or written in an interview, I think that what Taeyeon and these girls have done is remarkable, and that they all possess some of the traits that make strong leaders.
By the way, are you in military training or business school, or do you just study leadership and management for fun? Because a lot of what you just said was taught to me in my leadership and management class in the NROTC progam.
You have a strong heart Taeyeon :)
I hope I have a strong heart like you…
I really love this article. Yes, they can’t see Taeyeon being a leader on stage. But she’s a real leader behind the stage. Giving encouragement, support and give them a chance to shine, instead of her speaking everytime.
Thats the leader i want, bts he/she is capable of doing it but on stage, he/she gives the other people to showcase their talent
Taeyeon!! You’re the best leader in my heart!
good
It’s easy~
Tae yeon = the best leader ever in the world
Y ?
Juz becuz she is tae yeon and the team she lead is snsd <3
hye
i think each of their personalities define a leader. I’ve always see them equally. Their leadership skills are indeed different from each other but when all 9 of them gathers, it’s just picture perfect. When they’re together you see no leader but a bunch of kids just enjoying each others company. It’s fun for us SONEs to see that, cuz we know that when they enjoy themselves, people around them enjoys too. Even when we don’t expect something in return, they always try hard to let us know that they appreciate and recognize our love for them. hwaiting ~ !
A leader is only required if there are people who cant make a confident choice. All 9 are capable leaders themselves. It’ll be better that way since there’ll be less stress and burden on the appointed one if everyone has leadership qualities.
People in general get confused and mixed up between ‘leader’ and ‘boss’.
i knew it that all 9 girls can be a leader for themself. they are good individually and completing each other.
but personally, i’m really proud with taeyeon with her personality to be snsd leader.
i love all of you girls! keep healthy during japan arena tour.
taeyeon!! happy birthday!!
What makes and effective leader ?
2 words : BE TAEYEON :D hehe
Happy Birthday !!!
I’m so proud of not only Taeyeon but to all of them, they each have unique characteristics that makes their bond a lot more stronger. OT9 Manse!!! haahah All the best and I wish everyone a good health :)
TAEYEON IS THE BEST LEADER THAT EXISTS KAY??
sry, i just had to let it out ;D
ps: Happy Birthday my beloved Taeyeon
awww! our taeng is growing up so fast :( she’s already 25! i wonder when she’ll be getting married :3
Well said. I’d also say the leader of SNSD is not only Taeyeon but all 9 girls.
It’s interesting GG has been compared in the US to cheerleaders (cheerleaders and dance teams being a familiar frame of reference for modern American girls) and there’s an aspect of truth to that comparison. For example in many ways SNSD is the “Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders” of the Korean psyche. A sort of girl-next-door who exudes a type of an approachable physical societal ideal combined with an unobtainable glamour, talent and perkiness
Kpop is a hard nut to crack. The frame of reference of the social dynamics in Asia: Japan and Korea are frankly undesipherable to most Americans who first approach Kpop. People assume that they know but really the are just scratching the surface. To me, considering the complete interdependence of each KPOP girl group member for success of the group, the way they live work and train together, the bonds that they forge, and the very real element of cutthroat competition each week on gayo and in the Korean media has no analogue in American culture outside of sports. It’s the same sort of team dynamic that drives the success of these girl groups and the camaraderie that they share.
Now reams can be written on the subject of sports leadership. And in fact reams have. In the US it’s an entire sub category of pop psychology. I think in considering Taeyeon, it’s an interesting and a very specific example of a type of leader. In the US you have vocal “locker room” type leaders with loud voices, bombastic natures like Ray Lewis and then you have on-the-field type of leaders like Jerry Rice who lead first and foremost by their play… shutting up and keeping in line the biggest egos in American society through sheer awestriking superiority of their physical attributes.
You can talk about leadership but at the end of the day the truth is that probably alone of all the girls, Taeyngoo never needed GG in order to be a star. I’m not trying to start a row but really many of the other girls, although each is wonderful and has particular talents are essentially interchangeable. Yuri or Sunny or Sooyoung although manifest in their own individual charms do not have the talent or the looks to have made it solo or even in a smaller group. Taeyeon has the greatest vocal talent in the history of SM and probably the best overall idol voice in the genre. She has an adorable look and demeanor. Taeyeon isn’t my favorite but to me it’s an interesting case of an artist who could have gone solo and been bigger than IU… she has a better voice, is more physically pretty and is better on variety than IU. Taeyeon is a case of a girl who could have gone solo and been the biggest star for her genre in Korea, the “nation’s sister” but instead dedicated herself to the girls to create something even bigger and heretofor unseen… a truly international Kpop girl group.
So unlike other leaders, Taeyeon has never had to really raise her voice or be a “locker room leader.” The girls know that they’ll do their thing and at the end of the day whatever weaknesses they have, Taeyeon will be there to carry the solo or back their vocals. It’s that sort of unspoken respect that both gives GG their very foundation as artists and at the same time allows the other girls to develop their own colors without the domineering of an immense talent.
There’s many reasons why SNSD is the defacto leader of the Kpop movement in the West over, say a group like Rainbow, which is more attractive and arguably as talented in many areas like dancing and rapping, but to me a large factor is the “leadership” that many have criticized with Taeyeon. I think both Taeyeon as the artistic leader and Yoona as the representative one rule from places of irreproachable superiority over the other girls with a soft hand and it’s very much helped SNSD be the group that they are. The entire thing would NOT have worked unless each of the 9 girls were able to showcase their own talents and charms (for greater or lesser). It could easily have been a case of Suzy and her 3 backdancers or a mass of unknown faces like 9 Muses. SM hit on a magical forumlation of girls with SNSD and a large and unspoken factor were the girls they chose to lead them into the initial foray. It’s this sort of soft leadeship that people have criticized that have allowed the more ambitious girls like Tiffany and Seohyun to find their places in the group. That’s what a real leader does and I think Taeyeon passes with flying colors where it counts the most.
Taeyeon has been exhibiting TRUE leadership, as opposed to DESIGNATED leadership.
A TRUE leader doesn’t have to be out front every time — it’s not all about her. She inspires others to live up to their potential, and looks for ways for those she leads to expand their capabilities.
She delegates authority, because she knows that it’s “I” who leads, but “WE” who excel. A true leader makes her group become more than just individuals acting together — in large part the Power of 9 is a reflection of Taeyeon’s leadership, they are more together than they would be alone. The Soshibond is Taeyeon’s reward for all of her hard work.
Being a leader is a big responsibly and anyone who can lead, I applaud them for it because it’s a lot of hard work. I like how this article mentions that all the girls are leaders in their own way. :)
“Many of those identified as Level 5 Leaders were not the idealistic picture of a leader; rather than being charismatic, larger-than-life extroverts, these individuals were quiet, slightly off-beat, and awkward.” when i read this line, i automatically thought of our very own leader, Soy.
i pretty much agree with this article, plus leaders aren’t born as much as they’re made .. and SNSD were all made to be great leaders from the diffecult backgrounds and situations they have came across as groups and individuals.
i, myself have been known and pointed out as a leader-like or future-CEO material, and i’m more of a TaeYeon character, leadership is shown through the achievements of one when leading a group not by how they act, or voice themselves.
good article, Author.
I could not agree more! ^^ GREAT ARTICLE! :)
Well written, insightful, and humorous. Thanks Akino Makoto!
9 girls with different leader ability, become 1 perfect leader for all. Girls’ Generation
Great
yeah..