Summary of Korean female idols: Introducing popular K-pop girl groups
It’s no longer unusual to see idol groups from South Korea appearing on Japan’s music charts.
Even among “idol groups,” Korean groups are especially appealing for their high level of performance, and they’re gaining fans not only in Japan but all around the world.
In this article, we’ll focus on female groups among the many successful Korean acts and introduce them.
We’ve selected only super famous girl groups, so if there are any you don’t know yet, take this opportunity to check out their performances.
Summary of Korean female idols: Introducing popular K-pop girl groups (1–10)
SET ME FREETwice
A legendary girl group that leaves its mark on both records and memories.
It’s no exaggeration to say you can’t talk about female K-pop idols without mentioning TWICE.
Debuting in 2015 as a global girl group—including three Japanese members, Momo, Sana, and Mina, and Tzuyu from Taiwan—their international makeup might seem common now, but it felt fresh at the time.
From CHEER UP, known for Sana’s “shy shy shy” that became a social phenomenon, to TT with its emoji pose that turned into a massive hit, they rose to national popularity.
While their strength lay in cleverly incorporating trends with innovative approaches, in recent years they’ve embraced a uniquely Western pop style, boosting their popularity even further and drawing in audiences across the U.S.
and Europe.
CheshireITZY
JYP Entertainment is the largest entertainment agency in South Korea.
Compared to other companies, it consistently produces especially high-performing idols and manages many globally renowned groups.
ITZY is an idol group under JYP Entertainment.
They specialize in dance music with an R&B flair, and aspects of their musical style share similarities with Ariana Grande’s work in the 2010s.
Their catalog leans toward cooler, edgier tracks compared to other idol groups, making them a must-listen for anyone who likes that kind of sound.
Kitschive
If you like K-pop, chances are you’ve been keeping an eye on them.
With leader Yujin, formerly of IZ*ONE, the adorable Wonyoung, and other highly skilled members, they’re an elite group.
Having the Japanese member Rei also makes them feel familiar and approachable.
They debuted in 2021 with “ELEVEN,” and immediately won first place on a music show, the fastest ever at the time for a girl group.
Their subsequent winning streak with “LOVE DIVE,” “After LIKE,” and beyond shows no signs of stopping! Their sound is both accessible and stylishly sophisticated, paired with dazzling performances.
Their confident, unwavering sense of self is impressive, and I think they embody a new era of girl crush.
Shut DownBLACKPINK
When it comes to K-pop groups achieving the most global success right now, many people probably think of BLACKPINK.
In fact, they’ve collaborated with numerous world-renowned artists and have recently been ranking high on English-language charts.
Their biggest appeal, I believe, lies in their authentic dance music infused with hip-hop elements.
If you’re looking for high quality and genuine musicality that you don’t often find with Japanese idols, be sure to check them out.
Girlsaespa
Aespa debuted in 2020 with “Black Mamba.” The group consists of members from Japan, China, and Korea, and their powerful performances—contrasting with their sleek figures and visuals—leave a strong impression.
Their fusion with a metaverse concept using avatars is also a unique hallmark among K-pop idols.
Their 2021 remake track “Next Level” became a global hit and further boosted their popularity.
Even within SM Entertainment, which has long led the K-pop scene and wields significant influence, aespa’s style feels particularly cutting-edge and irresistible to those it resonates with.
While their strongest appeal lies in hard-hitting, energetic beats, their classic ballads are wonderful as well.
FEARLESSLE SSERAFIM
LE SSERAFIM debuted under SOURCE MUSIC, a HYBE subsidiary, as HYBE’s first girl group.
With members like Sakura and Chaewon who bring experience from IZ*ONE, the group’s skills are guaranteed.
Their thoroughly crafted girl-crush concept is truly one-of-a-kind, captivating with glamorous yet powerful expression.
Their refined dance performances, marked by beautiful formations, are also a must-see.
Be sure to check out their down-to-earth, cute charm as seen in livestreams and variety shows, too.
OMGNewJeans
Recently, there’s been an increase in multinational groups in K-pop.
NewJeans is one of the most talked-about multinational K-pop groups right now.
The lineup consists of three Koreans, one Korean-Australian, and one Vietnamese-Australian, and they excel at the high-quality performances that are characteristic of K-pop.
The group name “NewJeans” is said to carry the message of becoming a familiar, timeless group like a pair of jeans.
Their fashion is also extremely cute, so they’re a must-see for women who like K-pop!