K-pop has become more than just a genre—it’s a global movement. With explosive performances, tight choreography, and trend-setting visuals, K-pop groups continue to dominate international charts and social media feeds. As we dive into 2025, a new wave of artists and established groups are taking the spotlight, pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be a global idol.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer eager to explore the scene, here are the K-pop groups you need to watch in 2025.
1. ILLIT
Label: BELIFT LAB (HYBE)
Debut: 2024
Following their debut in 2024, ILLIT quickly became one of the fastest-rising girl groups in K-pop. Their fresh, quirky aesthetic and energetic performances resonated with Gen Z fans across Asia and beyond. In 2025, they are set to release their first full album and embark on a world tour.
Why Watch Them:
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Unique styling and addictive pop sound
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Viral TikTok presence and memeable choreography
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Backed by HYBE’s powerhouse resources
2. ZB1 (ZEROBASEONE)
Label: WAKEONE
Debut: 2023
Formed through the survival show Boys Planet, ZEROBASEONE (ZB1) was a project group originally set to promote for 2.5 years. Now in their final full year, the group is closing strong with back-to-back hits and global fan engagement. Their blend of emotional ballads and hard-hitting dance tracks makes them a force to be reckoned with in 2025.
Why Watch Them:
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Strong fandom (ZE_ROSE) presence in Asia and Latin America
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Duality in concept: both soft and charismatic
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High engagement through interactive fan content
3. RIIZE
Label: SM Entertainment
Debut: 2023
RIIZE made headlines as SM Entertainment’s first new boy group in years, with several former NCT members at the helm. Known for their high-level visuals and experimental pop sound, the group is gearing up for an international breakout in 2025 with English-language singles and US-based promotions.
Why Watch Them:
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International expansion efforts are already underway
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Cross-over potential with Western markets
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Smooth blend of vocals, rap, and storytelling visuals
4. BABYMONSTER
Label: YG Entertainment
Debut: Late 2023
BABYMONSTER, the much-anticipated girl group from YG Entertainment, made a thunderous debut and has continued to climb charts in 2025. With powerful vocals, hard-hitting hip-hop influences, and bold visuals, they’re seen as the spiritual successors to BLACKPINK.
Why Watch Them:
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Consistent digital charting and global streaming numbers
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Powerful performance style with a YG signature edge
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Expanding fanbase in North America and Southeast Asia
5. TWS (Twenty-Four Seven)
Label: PLEDIS Entertainment (HYBE)
Debut: Early 2024
TWS, short for “Twenty-Four Seven,” has emerged as a fresh boy group focusing on high-concept visuals and soft, synth-driven sounds. In contrast to the heavy performance style of many 4th-gen groups, TWS leans into aesthetic storytelling and emotional resonance, gaining traction on platforms like YouTube and Spotify.
Why Watch Them:
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Unique sonic identity in a saturated market
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Emphasis on storytelling through MVs and lyrics
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Growing international audience appreciative of mellow pop
6. NMIXX
Label: JYP Entertainment
Debut: 2022
NMIXX continues to evolve, refining their once divisive “mixxpop” genre into a more cohesive, accessible sound. 2025 sees them finally solidifying their identity, with a recent mini-album drawing praise for its production quality and stage charisma.
Why Watch Them:
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Reinvented musical direction attracting new fans
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Strong vocal line and choreography
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Standout performances at international festivals
7. BOYNEXTDOOR
Label: KOZ Entertainment (HYBE)
Debut: 2023
BOYNEXTDOOR combines boyish charm with mature storytelling. In 2025, they’re focusing on narrative-driven albums and concept-heavy comebacks that lean into youth themes like identity, love, and growth. Their sincerity and relatability have helped build a passionate, international fanbase.
Why Watch Them:
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Emotionally resonant music with artistic visuals
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DIY involvement in songwriting and production
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Popularity across Asia and a growing fanbase in Europe
8. NewJeans
Label: ADOR (HYBE)
Debut: 2022
Already a household name in K-pop, NewJeans continues to innovate in 2025. Known for their Y2K-inspired visuals, minimalist choreography, and genre-blending tracks, the group has become a global cultural icon. Their latest album includes international collaborations and fashion partnerships, solidifying their mainstream status.
Why Watch Them:
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Viral hits with minimalist yet iconic choreography
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Fashion-forward image and brand endorsements
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Major influence on global youth culture
9. LE SSERAFIM
Label: Source Music (HYBE)
Debut: 2022
LE SSERAFIM continues to grow in popularity through a blend of confidence-focused lyrics and high-octane performances. With a fanbase that’s both loyal and expanding, 2025 sees them collaborating with international producers and focusing on global markets, including the U.S. and Japan.
Why Watch Them:
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Empowering anthems and athletic stage presence
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Consistent reinvention with each comeback
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Well-rounded in vocals, visuals, and concept execution
10. TREASURE
Label: YG Entertainment
Debut: 2020
Having built a solid foundation in previous years, TREASURE enters 2025 with renewed energy. Their dual identity—bright pop contrasted with hard-hitting hip-hop—makes them versatile performers. A major Japanese dome tour and plans for a U.S. entry set them apart this year.
Why Watch Them:
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Versatile concept execution
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High-energy stage presence
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Dedicated global fanbase (TEUME)
Honorable Mentions
– xikers (KQ Entertainment): Energetic newcomers with experimental music direction.
– CSR: Rising girl group with a soft and nostalgic concept.
– KATSEYE: The global girl group from HYBE and Geffen Records, making waves with international fans.
– TNX: Solid vocalists with underrated performance skills and growing popularity in Southeast Asia.
Trends to Watch in 2025
1. Increased Global Collaborations
More K-pop groups are working with international producers, featuring Western artists, and recording in multiple languages.
2. AI and Virtual Integration
AI-generated members, AR-enhanced performances, and digital fan interactions are expanding rapidly in the K-pop landscape.
3. Story-Driven Albums
Conceptual storytelling and cinematic MVs are gaining traction, with groups releasing interconnected narratives across albums and content.
4. Fan-Driven Content
Groups are leaning into fan content creation—encouraging fan edits, dance covers, and open remix policies to fuel engagement.
2025 is shaping up to be one of the most diverse and dynamic years in K-pop history. With new groups rising, established acts evolving, and innovation across every platform, the K-pop wave shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re here for the music, the fashion, or the fandoms, one thing’s for sure—these groups are making global history, one comeback at a time.
So, keep your playlists ready, your lightsticks charged, and your eyes on these K-pop acts. The next global icons are already here.
