K-Pop, or Korean Pop music, has become a global phenomenon. The genre of music combines elements of hip hop, rap, R&B and EDM into catchy pop melodies that are often accompanied by powerful choreography and over-the-top visuals. K-Pop is multi-layered with intricate production and can appeal to both mainstream audiences as well as niche fans. From the impactful BLACKPINK to BTS’s contagious energy, discover the ten most popular K-Pop groups in this article. Learn their distinct styles and find out why they have gained international attention over the years. With so many talented acts in the industry it may be hard to decide which ones to watch first – but with our guide you’ll be able to explore all the most influential K-Pop groups without missing a beat!
1. BTS
The South Korean pop music sensation, BTS, is one of the ten most popular K-Pop groups around. The talented septet has taken the world by storm with their unique sound and passionate performances. The group debuted in 2013 under BigHit Entertainment and have since released four full-length studio albums and nine extended plays, winning multiple awards along the way. BTS’s members include J-Hope, Jimin, Sudam, Jin, V Jungkook and RM.
Since their formation, BTS has gained immense popularity worldwide for their chart topping singles “DNA” and “Fake Love”. They have also earned recognition from many notable awards including a Billboard Music Award for ‘Top Social Artist’ in 2017 as well as a Guinness World Record for ‘Most Twitter Engagements’.
2. Blackpink
K-Pop has become a global phenomenon over the past few years, and there are many different K-Pop groups to choose from. One of the most popular is Blackpink, a four-member girl group that debuted in 2016. They have been dominating the music scene ever since with their unique sound and captivating visuals.
Formed by YG Entertainment, Blackpink consists of members Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé and Lisa. From their debut single “Boombayah” to their recent hit “Lovesick Girls,” they have achieved numerous milestones such as becoming the highest charting female K-pop act on Billboard Hot 100 and being the first K-pop girl group to perform at Coachella.
Blackpink is an incredibly influential K-Pop group that continues to push boundaries within South Korean culture and beyond.
3. EXO
K-Pop has taken the world by storm, and some of the most popular groups in the genre are EXO. Consisting of nine members, EXO is one of South Korea’s biggest musical exports. They have become a global sensation since debuting in 2012, and their success continues to grow exponentially each year. In 2018 alone, EXO won four awards at the prestigious Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMAs), including Album Of The Year for their fifth release “Don’t Mess Up My Tempo”.
EXO has released several critically acclaimed albums over the years with hit singles like “Power” and “Growl” that skyrocketed up various music charts around the world.
4. TWICE
K-Pop fans around the world have been captivated by the music, style and entertainment of South Korea’s leading groups. One such group is TWICE. The nine-member band has become one of the biggest names in K-Pop since their debut in 2015. With chart topping hits like “Cheer Up” and “TT,” TWICE has successfully bridged the gap between mainstream pop and K-Pop culture.
The success of TWICE is undeniable, with it being named as one of 2016’s most popular acts in Asia according to a survey by Gallup Korea. With numerous awards for their music, including two consecutive wins at the Mnet Asian Music Awards for Song Of The Year in 2016 and 2017, TWICE continues to capture hearts with its cheerful songs and vibrant dance performances.
5. Red Velvet
K-Pop, or Korean pop music, has taken the world by storm since its rise to prominence in the early 2000s. It’s no surprise then that Red Velvet, one of South Korea’s most successful K-pop groups, have become some of the most popular acts in the genre worldwide. Comprised of Irene, Seulgi, Wendy and Joy with Yeri added later as a fifth member in 2015; Red Velvet is known for their unique concept blending bubblegum pop with R&B vibes. Their music is fun and energetic with lots of color and movement – representing their signature ‘Red Flavor’ sound that fans love. Red Velvet has released four studio albums up to date along with several mini-albums showcasing some of their best work to date such as ‘Psycho’, ‘Umpah Umpah’ and ‘Rookie’.
6. NCT 127
NCT 127 is one of the most popular K-Pop groups in South Korea and beyond. The group, which debuted in 2016 under SM Entertainment, is composed of ten members: Taeyong, Taeil, Johnny, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Winwin, Jungwoo Mark and Haechan. From their debut single “Firetruck” to their latest English-language release “Kick It” NCT 127 has consistently shown off their genre-defying sound that blends hip hop and electro music together. Their high energy performances have won them a huge fanbase both at home and abroad with some of their hit singles being certified gold or platinum both in South Korea as well as internationally. What really sets NCT 127 apart from other K-Pop groups is their unique style that embraces and celebrates individuality through diverse Fashion choices.
7. SEVENTEEN
K-pop has skyrocketed in popularity across the world and is now one of the most popular music genres globally. But with so many K-Pop groups, it can be hard to keep track of who’s who. From veteran acts like Big Bang and Girls’ Generation to rising stars like BTS and BLACKPINK, here are the ten most popular K-Pop groups right now – plus a bonus: SEVENTEEN!
SEVENTEEN is a thirteen member South Korean boy band that debuted in 2015 under Pledis Entertainment. The group consists of three subunits (Hip Hop Unit, Vocal Unit, Performance Unit), allowing each member to showcase different talents on stage. SEVENTEEN has created highly energetic performances with powerful choreography and catchy melodies that have earned them legions of dedicated fans around the world.
8. ITZY
K-Pop has been steadily gaining worldwide recognition over the last few years and it is no surprise that the genre has attracted many followers. ITZY, a five-member girl group, is one of the most popular K-Pop groups around today. ITZY debuted in 2019 under JYP Entertainment and immediately gained a strong following from music fans all around the world. Since then, they have released several hit singles such as “Dalla Dalla” and “Wannabe” which have both earned them significant accolades within their native South Korea as well as internationally. The group consists of members Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong and Yuna who together create vibrant music that draws inspiration from various genres including hip hop, EDM and R&B.
9. GOT7
GOT7 is one of the most popular K-Pop groups around, and for good reason. Formed in 2014, this seven-member group has become known worldwide for their incredible music, performances and visuals. Their upbeat dance tracks such as “Just Right,” “A” and “Lullaby” have kept fans hooked since their debut. GOT7’s music style combines elements of hip hop, R&B and EDM to create a unique sound that cannot be replicated.
The members have also made a name for themselves through their various projects across different platforms. From appearing on variety shows to starring in dramas, GOT7 has done it all! Each member brings something special to the table with their individual talents: JB is an exceptional leader while Mark’s rap skills are unparalleled.
Conclusion: Global Reach of K-Pop
K-Pop is one of the most popular music genres in the world today. From its origin in South Korea, it has spread to countries across the globe. Fans from all over are eager to find out more about their favorite K-Pop groups and what makes them so special. After exploring the ten most popular K-Pop groups, we can see that this genre truly does have global reach.
The international success of K-Pop is no surprise; it has a unique sound that appeals to fans around the world regardless of language barriers. Its catchy and upbeat tunes make it accessible for every listener, making it a top choice for many people who enjoy listening to music. Furthermore, its aesthetic visuals add another layer of appeal and allow artists to express themselves through Fashion as well as through their music.