1. SNSD, a well-prepared group
Among Korean girl groups, SNSD are the most well-prepared. As trainees for 5-6 years on average, they have thoroughly prepared themselves even before debut. There are not many girl groups around with such a long period of training that Soshi have gone through. People might have different opinions on them but one thing for sure, SNSD’s live performances are always impressive and that is obviously the fruit of their intensive training, experience and thorough preparations.
They are not only being prepared to be singers. Even before debut, they were trained as entertainers as well. During her pre-debut (with SNSD) days, YoonA was already actively involved in acting, while Yuri, Sooyoung and others too were featured in various CF. On the other hand, Sooyoung also had experience being a radio DJ before debuting with SNSD.
Usually for many other groups, they would only venture into other fields after their musical debut but it was a whole different situation for SNSD members as they already have such experiences before even debuting as a group. With those valuable experiences, the girls were able to stand out among others on TV shows.
Most new girl groups who debuted nowadays did not undergo sufficient preparation in comparison to SNSD. They are not only lacking in terms of singing skills but also in other areas as well.
2. SNSD, a group with strong financial backing
SNSD are funded by companies with stable and strong economic background and this is really rare among girl groups. Each and everyone of the 9-member group gets substantial amount of airtimes and such major-level broadcasts are only possible with the existence of a powerful influence. No matter how good a business idea or a product is, a business is considered as a failure if the advertising is not effective.
Without strong financial backing, it will not be easy for SNSD to obtain recognitions and acknowledgements eventhough they are talented and possessed amazing skills. SNSD’s agency, SM Entertainment is the largest among the top 3 largest entertainment agencies in Korea Republic. Thus, all 9 SNSD members will always obtain substantial amount of airtimes during broadcasts.
When SNSD kicked off their ‘Gee’ promotional activities in 2009, the legendary song was played again and again on air. Once, SNSD was given the nickname ‘water tap’ due to their frequent appearances on TV shows. SNSD’s frequent appearance on air is not just because of their beauty which appeal to the viewers but also a chance for the girls to build a huge fanbase.
Other girl groups on the other hand, do not receive as much support as what SNSD are enjoying at the moment.
3. Good Timing
One can never be successful with just skills and abilities without considering the timing, especially in the entertainment industry. In this case, SNSD’s timing have worked perfectly for them. At the time of their debut, there were not many idol groups who are active and most of the influential idol groups were boy bands such as TVXQ, Super Junior, SS501, etc. There were not many girl groups then and thus, SNSD can be considered as one of the pioneer girl groups in their era.

*some parts are omitted to avoid fan wars
Credit: nate.com/mediaus.co.kr

Translated by: fanwonder