ENGENE: The Two Secret Meanings Behind ENHYPEN's Fandom Name And Their Unofficial Colors

As of December 2025, the official and widely recognized name for the devoted fans of the global K-pop sensation ENHYPEN is ENGENE. This name is more than just a label; it is a foundational element of the group's identity, carrying two profound meanings that solidify the deep, symbiotic relationship between the seven members and their global fanbase. Announced shortly after the group's formation on the survival show *I-LAND*, the name ENGENE has become synonymous with the powerful "engine" that drives ENHYPEN's unprecedented success in the highly competitive 4th Generation K-pop landscape. The connection between ENHYPEN and ENGENE is central to the group's narrative, which is managed by Belift Lab, a subsidiary of HYBE Corporation. The fandom has experienced significant growth, particularly throughout 2023 and 2025, transforming from a newly formed community into one of the most influential fanbases in the world. As ENHYPEN prepares for the release of their 7th mini-album, *THE SIN : VANISH*, the strength and unity of ENGENE are more vital than ever.

ENHYPEN: A Quick Look at the Seven Members

Before diving deeper into the ENGENE community, it is essential to know the seven talented individuals who form the core of ENHYPEN. The group was formed through the 2020 reality competition show *I-LAND* and debuted on November 30, 2020.

• JUNGWON (양정원): The leader of ENHYPEN, born February 9, 2004. He is known for his stable vocals and charming dimples. Jungwon's leadership style is often praised for being empathetic and grounded.
• HEESEUNG (이희승): A versatile all-rounder, born October 15, 2001. He is often considered the group's ace, excelling in vocals, dance, and stage presence. Heeseung was an initial favorite on *I-LAND*.
• JAY (박종성): Born April 20, 2002, in Seattle, Washington, USA. Jay is known for his powerful dance and rap skills, as well as his passion for fashion and cooking. He is one of the group's most outspoken members.
• JAKE (심재윤): Born November 15, 2002, in Brisbane, Australia. Jake is recognized for his smooth vocals and warm, friendly personality. He is a key member for international fan communication.
• SUNGHOON (박성훈): Born December 8, 2002. A former competitive figure skater, Sunghoon brings elegance and precision to the group's choreography. He is also a gifted vocalist.
• SUNOO (김선우): Born June 24, 2003. Sunoo is known for his bright, energetic personality, which often earns him the title of the group's 'mood maker.' He is a main vocalist with a distinctive tone.
• NI-KI (西村力 / Nishimura Riki): The youngest member (*maknae*), born December 9, 2005, in Okayama, Japan. Ni-ki is widely regarded as one of the best dancers of his generation in K-pop.

Decoding ENGENE: The Two Powerful Meanings

The name ENGENE (pronounced *en-jin*) was officially revealed on October 9, 2020, through the global fan community platform Weverse. The group members themselves explained that the name was chosen because it perfectly encapsulates the reciprocal relationship between the artist and the fanbase. It offers a dual interpretation, making it one of the most meaningful fandom names in K-pop.

1. ENGENE as the "Engine"

The most straightforward meaning is the phonetic similarity to the word "Engine." In this context, the fans are viewed as the literal source of power and momentum for the group. Just as an engine is essential for a vehicle to move forward, ENGENE is the driving force that allows ENHYPEN to continue their journey, achieve new milestones, and reach greater heights. This meaning highlights the fans' vital role in the group's career, from streaming and album purchases to providing emotional support and energy during tours.

2. ENGENE as the "Gene"

The second, more poetic meaning comes from combining the words "EN" (from ENHYPEN) and "Gene." This interpretation suggests that the fans and the group share the same "gene" or DNA, meaning they are connected by a profound, shared bond and a common purpose. It implies that ENGENE and ENHYPEN are intrinsically linked, growing and evolving together as one entity. This connection is often referenced in the group's darker, thematic music, where the idea of connection and fate is a recurring motif.

The ENGENE Identity: Official Lightstick and Unofficial Colors

Topical authority for a K-pop fandom is incomplete without discussing the visual identity, which includes the official lightstick and the group's designated colors.

The ENHYPEN Official Light Stick (Ver. 2)

The official lightstick, often referred to as the "Engene Bong," is a crucial symbol of the fandom's unity. The latest version, the Official Light Stick Ver. 2, features a sleek, modern design, predominantly black, which aligns with ENHYPEN's sophisticated and often dark fantasy concepts. A notable feature of the lightstick is its advanced technology, allowing for central control at concerts and a unique Color Shaking Mode. Unlike many other K-pop groups, ENHYPEN does not have a single, official color combination. Instead, the lightstick often displays a range of colors, including an Aurora Mode that transitions through various hues, symbolizing the diverse connections and the group's ever-changing narrative.

The Unofficial Member Colors

While there is no official group color, fans have often associated unofficial colors with each member, which sometimes manifest in the lightstick's individual settings or in fan-made merchandise. These are:

• Heeseung: Blue
• Jay: Purple
• Jake: Orange/Yellow
• Sunghoon: White/Ice Blue (a nod to his figure skating past)
• Sunoo: Pink/Coral
• Jungwon: Red
• Ni-ki: Black/Dark Blue

It is important for new ENGENE to remember that these individual colors are fan-driven and not officially confirmed by Belift Lab, but they are widely recognized within the community.

ENGENE's Impact: Fandom Growth and Future

The global reach of ENGENE is undeniable. The fandom's size has grown exponentially since the group's debut, with a noticeable surge in international following. This massive fandom growth is reflected in ENHYPEN’s sales figures and chart performance, including their consistent appearance on major global charts. The power of ENGENE is currently focused on the group’s highly anticipated 7th mini-album, *THE SIN : VANISH*, which is set for release on January 16, 2026. This release is expected to continue their narrative of dark fantasy and sophisticated storytelling, a concept that deeply resonates with the fanbase. The dedication of ENGENE is not just about consumption; it is about active participation, from organizing charity events in the group's name to creating high-quality fan content that further promotes ENHYPEN's music and message. In summary, the answer to "what are ENHYPEN fans called" is a simple yet powerful one: ENGENE. It is a name that represents both the essential "Engine" driving the group's success and the shared "Gene" connecting the seven members to their millions of supporters worldwide, ensuring ENHYPEN remains a dominant force in the K-pop industry for years to come.