Super Junior D&E Reflect on “Sorry, Sorry” Legacy — And How it Changed Kpop

Back in 2017, Super Junior-D&E graced the cover of Esquire Hong Kong, marking a powerful moment in their post-military comeback era. Nearly a decade later, that interview feels even more meaningful — especially as new generations of fans continue to discover their music.

At the time, the magazine praised Donghae and Eunhyuk for returning from military service with a more mature presence, noting how the explosive success of Sorry, Sorry helped cement Super Junior as dominant figures across Asia particularly in China’s idol scene.

In 2026, that legacy is no longer just about chart records. It’s about endurance.

The Song That Changed Everything

When Sorry, Sorry was released in 2009, few could have predicted how far it would travel. The addictive choreography, sleek styling, and sharp performance turned Super Junior into one of the defining faces of second-generation K-pop.

Today, in the era of global streaming dominance and TikTok virality, Sorry, Sorry still resurfaces covered by rookies, referenced in dance challenges, and cited as one of the songs that opened international doors for K-pop.

For longtime ELFs, it wasn’t just a hit. It was the moment everything shifted.

Growing Up — Together With the Fans

In the 2017 interview, Donghae and Eunhyuk spoke candidly about their military service. They shared that nighttime was the most unforgettable part — a rare moment of solitude after long days of adjustment and discipline.

That reflection feels especially poignant now.

Nearly two decades into their careers, both artists have evolved from energetic rookies into seasoned performers, producers, and creative directors. Their growth hasn’t just been musical — it’s personal. And many fans who grew up alongside them relate deeply to that journey.

The maturity Esquire described back then? It’s even more visible now.

Still Kings, Just in a Different Way

The article once referred to them as “kings” of the Chinese idol scene. In 2026, the meaning of that title has changed.

It’s no longer about dominating one market it’s about longevity, consistency, and staying relevant across eras. Super Junior D&E continue to tour, release music, and connect with fans worldwide, proving that second-generation K-pop wasn’t a passing wave — it was a foundation.

Their story isn’t just about explosive success.
It’s about surviving trends, redefining identity, and continuing to perform with the same passion that once made Sorry, Sorry a phenomenon.

And for the many Super Junior fans on our page that’s why this interview still hits differently in 2026.