CORTIS was BigHit’s anticipated boy group this year. With five members (Martin, James, Juhoon, Seonghyeon, and Keonho), they became one of 2025’s most iconic and talked-about groups. CORTIS is a group that contributes to every part of the artist’s journey from songwriting to choreography. You’re able to find their name tied to some part every time. Their artistic touch also extends to other groups, as Martin and James can be tied to songs like ‘Magnetic’ by IllIT, ‘Deja Vu’ by Tomorrow X Together, and many more. Their debut EP, Color Outside the Lines, became one of the best-selling rookie albums of this year, selling over 1.19 million. They also charted on Billboard 200, reaching #15 and surpassing 200 million Spotify streams in three months. Creating viral challenges for both ‘GO!’ and ‘FaSHioN’ making them named “Rookies of the Year” at the TikTok Music Awards. Even though they have only released on EP, CORTIS is one group you should keep your eye on in 2026 as their energetic and bold performances are keeping fans engaged for more.
XLOV
XLOV is a four-member (Wumuti, Haru, Rui, Hyun) group that debuted on January 7, 2025. Their group became most known for their bold “genderless” concept, which breaks the current gender norms in idol performances. Their debut song “Imma Be” expressed that message of self-expression and declaring to be themselves. Since then, the group has continued to become well known for their live vocals and dynamic choreography in each comeback. Their most recent comeback was their EP, “UXLXVE,” which brought a new view to K-pop promotions with their music melody telling a story where each member has two completely different personalities but relates to the message of their songs. The title track ‘Rizz’ shows XLOV’s charm and romantic side. They also garnered attention with their b-side track ‘Biii:-p,’ which expresses a playful side to the group with a cute choreography and fun sound. All their behind the scenes of this most recent comeback is on YouTube, where fans can see the hard work and artistic expression the group has for the music. They aren’t stopping here as they are venturing out on their first full European tour, which is already mainly sold out for next year. This sets expectations high on how far this group is going to go in the future.
Hearts2Hearts
Hearts2Hearts is SM Entertainment’s latest girl group, which debuted on February 24, 2025. Consisting of eight members (Jiwoo, Carmen, Yuha, Stella, Juun, A-na, Ian, and Ye-on), these girls are bringing the teenage core alive with a nostalgic and dreamy sound and aesthetic. They debuted with their single ‘The Chase,’ which gave them huge success, winning their first music show in 15 days after their debut. This was only the start, as they also achieved record-breaking sales, selling over 408,880 copies in the first week. They would continue their unique sound throughout the year, most recently releasing their debut EP, Focus, consisting of five songs. Their title track, ‘Focus,’ showed a new side to the group with a house genre sound. With this song also going viral on social media with a fun choreography and a catchy hook, fans made their presence known globally. All their work became known as they received Best New Artist at this year’s MAMA Awards showing their mark in K-pop’s 5th-generation.
AHOF
AHOF, otherwise known as All-time Hall of Famer, is the latest group to debut from a survival show, “Universe League.” The nine-member group consists of JL, Woongki, Jeongwoo, Chih En, Juwon, Shuaibo, Han, Steven, and Daisuke. With a multinational line-up and with goals to become K-pop legends, they quickly sparked fans’ attention. They debuted on July 1, 2025, with their first EP, Who We Are, with the title ‘Rendezvous.’ With a youthful narrative and a journey to their dreams, their debut EP led them to success and won their first music show within 10 days. Their most recent comeback, The Passage – EP, tells the story from youth to adulthood. The title ‘Pinocchio’ uses the fairytale story to tell the coming-of-age story in a new, imaginative way. From both comebacks, they have earned the title of “monster rookie” for their huge first-week sales, music show wins, and hitting the top of the charts. AHOF is one group to keep your eye on in 2026, especially as they are set to perform at the Mall of Asia NYE Countdown in the Philippines.
Close Your Eyes
Close Your Eyes was also formed through a survival show, titled Project 7. The seven-member boy group consists of Minwook, Jingxiang, Yeojun, Sungmin, Seungho, Kenshin, and Kyounghbae. Their concept is to have music so engaging that you’re able to listen to it with your eyes closed. And with each blink, you will see this group continue to grow. They debuted on April 2, 2025, with the mini-album ETERNALT, with the title track ‘All My Poetry.’With poetic lyrics and displaying their artistic abilities, they quickly won their first award on “SBS M The Show,” six days after their debut. With their latest mini album, Blackout, they came with a bolder and louder concept. This led them to sell over 500,000 units and reach high rankings on global charts. As the new year is about to start, the group has plans to hold their first solo concert in January and a three-city tour in Japan the following month.
NEWBEAT
NEWBEAT is Beat Interactive’s latest group, which debuted on March 24, 2025. The seven-member group (Minseok, Minsung, Yeoyeojeong, Seohyun, Taeyang, Yunhu, and Riwoo) first made their appearances by performing with A.C.E, which would turn into holding a busking tour in North America under the name HinLOVE. They debuted with their full album, RAW AND RAD, which showcased their energetic and diverse sound. They released two singles before the album, which had fans excited for the full album. They would then release their mini album, “LOUDER THAN EVER,” which debuted with all English tracks, which charted well overall. They also performed once again at KCON as an official group, performing on the Crypto.com Stage during M Countdown Pre-Show and X Stage. The group was perceived well by fans, which led them to win the Rookie Award at the 2025 Seoul Success Awards. The group is promoting globally, recently releasing a Mandarin version of their song ‘Cappuccino.’ Next month, the group is set to hold their first solo concert, “Drop the NEWBEAT,” and is currently promoting it. NEWBEAT is set to make things loud in 2026, so be sure to keep on the lookout.
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ifeye
ifeye is a six-member group (Kasia, Meu, Rahee, Sasha, Taerin, and Won Hwayeon) from Hi-Hat Entertainment. Combining youthful and artistic energy, they aim to become a relatable group through their songs’ messages. On April 8, 2025, they released their digital EP, “ERLU BLUE,” with the title track ‘NERDY.’ This gained strong praise for their diverse style and rapid success with their music video for ‘NERDY,’ gaining over 10 million views within days. They would then release their second EP, “Sweet Tang,” on July 16, 2025. Their title “r u ok” gained much popularity and became a popular trend on social media. Ifeye would then make their North American debut, by performing at KCON LA 2025s’ X Stage allowing them to reach a bigger audience and perform their recent songs. With strong vocals and incredible presence, ifeye is going to be one to watch as fans are anticipating their next comeback.
1VERSE
1VERSE made their official debut on July 18, 2025 under Singing Beetle. With a multinational line up the group gained attention before debut. Their first single album, “The 1st Verse,” featured three tracks. The title track ‘Shattered’ tells the story of feeling overwhelmed and vulnerable. Each member coming from a different background and having a unique story brings the 1VERSE concept to life by coming together to create this group or in other words one universe. They have a strong social media presence by always posting and creating content on Instagram and TikTok which has led fans to discover them as well. Now, 1VERSE is planning to hold tours in North America and Europe which have already sold out in many cities.
[Interview] NEWBEAT are Ready to Run Through the Tough World