JustB has announced they’re crowdfunding their fifth mini album SNOW ANGEL. Their agency, BLUEDOT Entertainment, shared the news on Weverse. The campaign will help cover production, marketing, and distribution costs while also offering special rewards to fans.
Running from September 16 to October 1, 2025, via the KOOKY platform, the campaign has a funding goal of 50 million KRW (around $37,000 USD). Contributors can choose from multiple tiers. Each one provides perks like exclusive content, signed merchandise, and thank-you gifts. BLUEDOT described the project as a way to let the group’s fanbase ONLYB play an active role in shaping JustB’s future.
Why Crowdfunding Works
Not every K-pop group is going to become the next BTS or BLACKPINK. Even reaching the level of mid-tier acts like ATEEZ or MONSTA X is rare. You’d be surprised to hear about how many of them work part-time jobs to keep the lights on in their dorms. Their agencies stop investing once a group stops being profitable. Sometimes it’s because the label is suffering from financial issues. It’s usually only a matter of time until they disband.
The flip side to this is to have groups go on back-to-back concert tours. The downside to this plan is that eventually, your fans won’t feel the need to shell out money for overpriced tickets. If they’ve already seen you perform twice, they’ll probably decide to sit out.
Crowdfunding offers an alternative. Fans contribute to production and marketing. In return, they receive new music as they help their favorite group. Not every group has the fandom size needed for crowdfunding. The ones that do should definitely invest in it.
It’s Been Done Before
Crowdfunding isn’t a new practice for K-pop idols. U-KISS launched a campaign back in 2013 when their domestic popularity waned. Laboum also used a similar strategy to produce an album and music videos.
As K-pop expands globally, the divide between top-tier groups and everyone else has never been wider. Small and mid-tier acts are left competing for scraps of attention. Crowdfunding evens the playing field. Even if their label can’t afford to support them, groups can lean on fans who want to see them continue to promote as idols.
Is Crowdfunding the Future for Some K-pop Groups?
Is crowdfunding merely a survival tactic for smaller groups? Or could it become a new standard in K-pop?
The positive response JustB has received shows that fans see this as some kind of collaboration. By participating, ONLYB ensures the group is able to make music. That’s a powerful way to feel connected to an idol. It’s a test of loyalty. A show of faith. It’s also an indicator of whether a group has what it takes to last in such a competitive industry.
It’s nice to see JustB find a way to continue their career as idols. I wish them much success with their SNOW ANGEL campaign. Maybe they can set a standard for idols that are in a similar position as them.
