8 K-Pop Groups Who Are 5th Generation According To Korean Media

The era of the 5th generation K-Pop groups has begun, and the enthusiasm is palpable. Here are eight groups Korean media considers to be at the forefront of the new wave, stirring up a sensation with their fresh sounds and captivating visuals.

1. ZEROBASEONE

The nine-member boy group ZEROBASEONE was created through Mnet‘s competition show Boys Planet and managed by WakeOne. With members Jiwoong, Zhang Hao, Hanbin, Seok Matthew, Taerae, Ricky, Gyuvin, Gunwook, and Yujin, their debut EP, Youth in the Shade, is slated for July 10, 2023. Their expected active duration is set to be 2.5 years, promising fans an exciting journey.

2. BOYNEXTDOOR

Bringing a casual vibe is BOYNEXTDOOR, a six-member boy group under KOZ Entertainment. Having debuted with their single album Who! on May 30, they aim to resonate with listeners through “relatable” and “sincere” music. Their name represents a casual, approachable image akin to the “boys next door.”

3. XODIAC

Debuting with the digital single “Throw A Dice,” XODIAC, a nine-member boy group under One Cool Jacso Entertainment, introduced a unique concept with their web drama MV series Roommate. The series strategically allowed the group to showcase B-side songs from their mini album. With more digital singles and an album release planned, XODIAC is an intriguing addition to the 5th generation lineup.

4. BABYMONSTER

Also known as “Baemon,” this upcoming girl group from YG Entertainment is definitely one to watch. The septet — Ruka, Pharita, Asa, Ahyeon, Haram, Rora, and Chiquita — released a pre-debut single, “Dream,” on May 14, leaving fans eagerly awaiting their official debut.

5. xikers

Formed by KQ Entertainment, xikers made their mark on the K-Pop scene with their debut EP, House of Tricky: Doorbell Ringing, on March 30, 2023. The ten-member group — Minjae, Junmin, Sumin, Jinsik, Hyunwoo, Junghoon, Seeun, Yujun, Hunter, and Yechan — is expected to bring diversity and dynamism to the stage.

6. The Wind

Making their debut with Beginning : The Wind Page, The Wind is a seven-member boy group under With US Entertainment. From teasing fans with social media hints and member reveals to their debut album, The Wind has shown promising potential, leaving fans wanting more.

7. KISS OF LIFE

Also known as KIOF, this four-member girl group under S2 Entertainment is creating buzz pre-debut. With Natty, a former soloist and reality show contestant, and Belle, a former composer for other popular K-Pop stars, along with Julie, an experienced trainee, the group is set to debut on July 5, 2023.

8. ADYA

Last but not least, the five-member girl group debuted on May 9 with the single album ADYA under Starting House Entertainment. Representing an adventurous spirit as implied by their name, the group — consisting of Yeonsu, Seowon, Sena, Chaeeun, and Seungchae — is certainly adding an exciting dynamic to the 5th generation lineup.