Top 10 K-Pop Bands In 2023
K-pop, short for Korean popular music, has taken the world by storm since its emergence in the mid-1990s. This genre has produced a wave of immensely successful groups that have achieved pop-culture dominance. You're probably familiar with some of the most renowned K-pop groups like BTS, Blackpink, and SEVENTEEN. These groups infuse traditional Korean elements into their music while drawing inspiration from Western genres like hip-hop, electronic dance, and R&B. With catchy tunes and a global fan base, K-pop bands have captured hearts worldwide.
These K-pop idols, as the band members are known, undergo rigorous training in vocals, media handling, and choreography before making their debut. K-pop groups can range in size from four members to as many as 21.
While these bands consistently release music as a collective, K-pop stars often branch out into acting, fashion, and other creative pursuits. Their talent and work are celebrated on a global scale. If you're looking to dive into the world of K-pop but don't know where to start, here's a list of the top 16 K-pop groups that will have you adding their albums to your playlists in no time.
1. BTS:
BTS, originally known as the Bangtan Boys, is a South Korean boy band that gained immense success since their debut in 2013. With four No. 1 albums and five consecutive No. 1 singles, BTS has made history by performing at the American Music Awards and winning the Artist of the Year award. Each member of the seven-member group has an estimated net worth of around $20 million.
2. Blackpink:
Blackpink is a four-member K-pop girl group that made history as the first K-pop girl band to perform at Coachella and achieve high rankings on the Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard 200. Known for their style and choreography, Blackpink has ventured into sponsorships, documentaries, and solo projects.
3. SEVENTEEN:
SEVENTEEN, with 13 members organized into three units, is considered one of K-pop's leading superstars. They have amassed over 2 billion streams and sold over 10 million albums. In 2021, they achieved two No.1s on Billboard Top album sales and were nominated for the Best K-pop award at the MTV Video Music Awards.
4. ITZY:
ITZY made their debut in 2019 and became the first and only K-pop girl group to achieve a "Rookie Grand Slam" by winning Rookie of the Year at all major Korean music awards shows. They also made history by charting multiple hits on the Billboard Global 200.
5. ENHYPEN:
Debuting in 2020, ENHYPEN quickly won four "Rookie of the Year" Awards. The group's seven members serve as global ambassadors for Ami Paris and have achieved millions of views on their music videos.
6. (G)I-DLE:
(G)I-DLE, formed in 2018 as a six-piece group, set records for South Korean girl groups by selling 100,000 copies in the first week following the release of their third EP, I Trust, in 2020.
7. BIGBANG:
BIGBANG, formed in 2006, made waves as one of the biggest K-pop bands of the 2000s. After members completed their mandatory military service, there were reports of a possible comeback, including collaborations with brands like Nike.
8. Girls' Generation:
Girls' Generation, one of the biggest K-pop girl groups, has sold over 100 million digital and physical records. They hold numerous records, including the most awards at the MelOn Music Awards.
9. Red Velvet:
Red Velvet, a four-member K-pop girl group, has achieved chart-topping success with albums like The Red Flavor and became the first K-pop girl group to have three No. 1 albums on the World Albums Chart.
10. TXT:
Tomorrow X Together (TXT) made their debut in 2019 and quickly gained popularity with their music videos. They secured the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Emerging Artists chart and received MTV Video Music Award nominations.
These K-pop groups have left an indelible mark on the global music scene, and their influence continues to grow. Whether you're a seasoned K-pop fan or just beginning to explore this genre, these groups offer a diverse range of music and talent to enjoy.