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[2026] Not Just K-pop! A Special Feature on Korean Female Vocal Bands
When you think of Korean music, many people picture K-pop groups like TWICE, BLACKPINK, NewJeans, and ILLIT.
Even among fans of indie rock and pop, the Asian scene has long been drawing attention.
In recent years, thanks to the rising popularity of DAY6 and the girl band QWER, there’s been growing momentum for bands in Korea as well.
In this article, we’re showcasing a wide-ranging selection of bands that include female vocals!
Use this as a guide when exploring bands with a different charm from K-pop—or as a playlist to dive right in!
[2026] Not just K-pop! A Special Feature on Korean Female Vocal Bands (1–10)
Harmony from DiscordQWER
QWER is a girls’ band created by Korean YouTuber Kim Gyeran, known for streaming survival content.
The group includes Lee Si-yeon, who was also active as a member of NMB48, creator Chodan, Magenta, and TikToker Hina.
Before their 2023 debut, they performed band covers of Japanese songs on social media.
Fronted by vocalist Si-yeon, the band has gained attention for the members’ striking looks and their four-piece live performances.
coiicotoba
Kotoba is a math-rock band known for complex rhythms and emotionally charged melodies.
Debuting in 2019, they take their name from the Japanese word for “words,” and operate under the concept of conveying emotions through music that cannot be fully expressed in language.
Based in Seoul, South Korea, the mixed-gender band fuses math rock with elements of post-rock and shoegaze.
In 2022, they released their first full-length album, “4pricøt,” not only in Korea but also in a Japanese edition.
They’re highly recommended for listeners who enjoy intricate time signatures, airy textures, and a comfortably immersive groove.
IDEALISTLuciDreaM
LuciDreaM, a name that means a lucid dream in which you’re aware you’re dreaming.
The band features vocalist Ria, who is also active as a solo singer and fronts the metal band IVITS.
They create songs that incorporate elements of emo and screamo, delivering a sound where heavy band performances intertwine with synths.
Their lyrics, which mix Korean and English, convey their global appeal.
They are a rising force in South Korea’s melodic hardcore scene.
LoveholicLoveholic
Formed in 2002, LOVEHOLIC is a trio that brought a fresh breeze to the Korean music scene with songs featuring a female vocalist whose poised, clear voice and refined modern rock–pop sensibilities are especially captivating.
The group, consisting of two male members who had already established themselves as musicians and the singer Jisun, who joined through an audition, produced highly acclaimed work and even made their debut in Japan.
Although Jisun unfortunately left the group in 2007, their music—distinct from both today’s globally dominant K-pop and indie rock—deserves to be rediscovered and reappraised.
BlazeRolling Quartz
Loud rock by all-girl bands like BAND-MAID and SCANDAL has been gaining attention in Japan.
The genre is popular in Korea as well, and among them, the five-member rock band Rolling Quartz stands out with a modern, heavy sound.
Tracks like 2020’s “Blaze” and 2022’s “Delight” showcase their distinctive musical style.
Be sure to check out their music videos too, where you can enjoy their colorful, unique hairstyles and outfits!
BlindWalking After U
Walking After U, a four-piece female band based in Seoul, South Korea, has been highly active since their formation in 2014 and has even performed in Japan, earning strong popularity.
Their sound, seemingly influenced by 2000s emo and modern rock, may feel fresh to Korean music fans who usually listen to K-pop.
With a solid band ensemble backed by high-level musicianship, catchy songs, and a vocalist with proven ability, their music is sure to resonate with Western music lovers as well!
Beyond The HorizonIdiots
Idiots is a pop-punk band born from Seoul’s music scene.
Debuting with their first EP in 2018, they’re known for a catchy sound influenced by anime and coming-of-age films.
With lyrics that depict the struggles and everyday lives of young people and energetic performances, they’ve been gaining attention.
Juna, the lead vocalist and guitarist, also performed as a member of the live idol group LIPIMOON.
Unlike the meticulously crafted worlds of K-pop, Idiots’ appeal lies in their down-to-earth, relatable musical style—highly recommended for those who want to stay true to themselves.