A simple starter guide to K-Pop for beginners: girl groups explained

<< K‑Pop groups explained: a simple starter guide for beginners

This is an extension of the earlier introductory guide to K-Pop groups, which you can read about here. The same format will be used in this guide, which will introduce additional artists, focusing on girl groups. This is a work in progress, and more artists will be added over time. All artists are listed in alphabetical order.

See also:
Introduction to K-Pop boy groups
Introduction to K-Pop co-ed groups
Introduction to K-Pop female soloists
Introduction to K-Pop male soloists

If you want to know where the names of these artists come from and their meaning, read this: The origin and meaning of the names of K-Pop girl groups.

2NE1

Company: YG Entertainment
Debut: 2009
Members: Bom, Dara, CL, Minzy
Fandom: Blackjacks

Introduction:
One of the most groundbreaking artists in K-Pop history, 2NE1 completely revolutionized the idea of Korean girl groups. At a time when K-Pop leaned heavily towards cute or glamorous concepts, 2NE1 arrived with a fierce and rebellious attitude that completely shifted expectations. Shattering every stereotype, they became the embodiment of the idea of “girl power” in K-Pop, and made music that blended hip‑hop, electronic, and pop with a raw yet emotional edge. Over the years, they experimented with numerous different genres, adding elements of R&B and reggae to their hip-hop-based style, while always delivering powerful vocals, charismatic rap lines, and outstanding performances. With their bold concept, fierce personality, and sophisticated feel, they stood out as entirely different from their contemporaries, becoming one of the most iconic K-Pop groups of all time, and influcencing all future generations of artists. They broke up in 2017, but reunited for a concert tour in 2024.

Listen to 2NE1 if you like:
Bold concepts, genre‑blending hip-pop with attitude, strong vocals, charismatic rap, and outstanding live performances.

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aespa

See aespa

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ARTMS

Company: Modhaus
Debut: 2024
Members: HeeJin, HaSeul, Kim Lip, JinSoul, Choerry
Fandom: Ourii

Introduction:
ARTMS was born after the division of Loona, when HeeJin, HaSeul, Kim Lip, JinSoul, and Choerry reunited under a new company headed by Loona’s former creative director. They quickly became the spiritual continuation of the Loona project, inheriting many of the musical and artistic elements that made them famous, but with a darker twist. Their concept mostly blends gloomy and mysterious images with mature themes and experimental sounds, including some futuristic and brighter elements. Meanwhile, their music leans into synth‑pop, with an atmospheric production and a clear creative vision that spans their entire discography, including their exceptional b-sides. ARTMS showed their impressive artistry not only with their unique sound, but also thanks to some spectacular music videos, which are almost like short movies. With more creative freedom, ARTMS pushes beyond the boundaries of traditional K-Pop, disregarding trends in favor of creating something truly unique and never-before-seen.

Listen to ARTMS if you like:
Futuristic synth‑pop, conceptual storytelling with a dark and gloomy vibe, and music that pushes beyond traditional boundaries.

See also:
Chuu, HeeJin, Loona, Loona 1/3, Loona yyxy, Loossemble, Odd Eye Circle, Yves

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Babymonster

Company: YG Entertainment
Debut: 2023
Members: Ruka, Pharita, Asa, Ahyeon, Rami, Rora, Chiquita
Fandom: Baemon

Introduction:
Babymonster arguably faced the most pressure on their debut than any rookie K-Pop group ever, as they were the first girl group under YG Entertainment since Blackpink, and they were openly positioned as the next leaders of the industry. Despite this immense burden, Babymonster succeeded spectacularly, not by copying their predecessors, but by carving their own distinct identity. A multinational group with members from Korea, Japan, and Thailand, Babymonster based their music on confident and bass‑driven tracks with a mix of powerful rap, strong vocals, and sleek production. Reshaping expectations, they gave their songs a more youthful feel, combining bold and energetic performances with a bright and approachable image. Meanwhile, they built their reputation as a top group thanks also to the wide range of abilities of their members, who mix incredible vocal skills, intense rap sections, and precise choreographies, all wrapped up in a modern and fresh hip-hop style.

Listen to Babymonster if you like:
Powerful vocals, strong rap lines, confident hip-hop with a youthful intensity, and music that’s high-energy and performance-driven.

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Blackpink

See Blackpink

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Everglow

Company: Yuehua Entertainment (2019-2025), Chxxta Company (2025-present)
Debut: 2019
Members: E:U, Sihyeon, Onda, Aisha
Former members: Mia (2019-2025), Yiren (2019-2025)
Fandom: Forever

Introduction:
Since their debut, Everglow quickly emerged as one of the most dynamic groups of their generation, known for their powerful “girl crush” concept and bold stage presence. Their sound is heavily based on EDM, with elements of electronic, dance, trap, and pop, combined with strong vocal hooks and confident rap sections. They also built their reputation thanks to their charismatic performances and fierce choreographies, which are always delivered with explosive energy. Across their discography, Everglow’s music blends assertive lyrics with dynamic production, creating an atmosphere of empowerment and ambition that has defined their artistic identity since their debut. Projecting confidence and intensity, Everglow became one of the best examples of the “girl crush” concept in K-Pop. Over time, their rise was hindered by internal problems with their agency, which led to two members leaving the group and the remaining moving to a new company.

Listen to Everglow if you like:
High‑energy EDM, fierce electronic music with bold concepts, and powerful and confident performances.

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Girls’ Generation

Company: SM Entertainment
Debut: 2007
Members: Taeyeon, Sunny, Tiffany, Hyoyeon, Yuri, Sooyoung, Yoona, Seohyun
Former members: Jessica (2007-2014)
Fandom: Sone

Introduction:
Known in South Korea as “The Nation’s Girl Group”, Girls’ Generation is one of the most popular and successful K-Pop groups of all time, having achieved a level of cultural influence that few ever reached. After their debut in 2007, they rose to fame thanks to their signature bright pop style, and their immense popularity played a large part in pushing K-Pop into the global spotlight. Over the years, their sound evolved in a more mature direction, and they showed their versatility by mastering every concept from elegant to bold, without losing their unmistakable identity. Meanwhile, they explored different genres, mostly blending pop, dance, and electronic influences. The members of the group are also known for their strong vocals, charismatic stage presence, and a professionalism that set new standards for the industry. Countless idols now cite Girls’ Generation as a major inspiration, as the group shaped the entire K-Pop world, setting the standard for what a Korean girl group should be.

Listen to Girls’ Generation if you like:
Classic pop with bright melodies, music that blends cute and bold concepts, and a sound that shifts from bubblegum to dance and electronic.

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i-dle

Former name: (G)I-dle (2018-2025)
Company: Cube Entertainment
Debut: 2018
Members: Miyeon, Minnie, Soyeon, Yuqi, Shuhua
Former members: Soojin (2018-2021)
Fandom: Neverland

Introduction:
i-dle, formerly known as (G)I-dle, exploded onto the K-Pop scene in 2018, immediately catching the attention of fans with their versatility and strong creative identity. Praised for continously breaking stereotypes, the unique style of i-dle has been shaped by the members themselves, especially Soyeon, who has written and produced much of the group’s music. Naturally blending pop, hip-hop, and alternative influences, i-dle built their style around bold concepts, memorable hooks, and a distinctive personality, creating a consistent but very diverse discography. They are also often open to experiment and take risks by trying a wide variety of new styles and concepts, and their music can range from dark and dramatic tracks to catchy summer hits, always delivered with their signature confidence. Beyond their music, the group is also known for their striking visuals and a performance style that highlights each member’s individuality.

Listen to i-dle if you like:
Strong energy, confident pop with attitude and hip-hop influences, and songs that highlight individuality and artistic identity.

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Illit

Company: Belift Lab (subsidiary of Hybe)
Debut: 2024
Members: Yunah, Minju, Moka, Wonhee, Iroha
Fandom: Gllit

Introduction:
One of the newest addition to the lineup of major K-Pop groups, Illit immediately caught the attention of fans thanks to their bright, dreamy, and youthful aesthetic. Blending innocence, confidence, and modern pop sensibility, Illit quickly gained notoriety for their clean vocals, charming stage presence, and a quirky sound that matches what many want to see in the current K‑Pop landscape. Illit stands out thanks to how they balance softness with energy, as their music leans into airy melodies, playful rhythms, and a warm and approachable vibe that feels instantly likable. Illit immediately topped charts with their debut song “Magnetic”, and since then they established themselves as one of the top girl groups in Korea, while exploring different aspects of the their concept with each new release.

Listen to Illit if you like:
Bright and youthful pop with dreamy melodies, soft vocals, and a modern, feel‑good vibe.

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Itzy

See Itzy

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Ive

Company: Starship Entertainment
Debut: 2021
Members: Gaeul, Yujin, Rei, Wonyoung, Liz, Leeseo
Fandom: Dive

Introduction:
Ive might just be the very embodiment of elegance in the K-Pop world. With striking visuals, a confident sound, and a concept centered on self‑assurance, independence, and knowing your own worth, Ive emerged as one of the leaders of their generation. Their music feels glamourous and grandiose, but also graceful and refined, and features strong melodies and a sense of sophistication that sets them apart from other artists. In their songs, they often address themes of self‑love and ambition, explored through catchy hooks and a sleek visual identity, while naturally and effortlessly feeling charming. However, a big part of their appeal is how they feel glamourous but never untouchable, and assertive, but never cold. Blending smooth vocals, memorable choruses, and a confident attitude in both their songs and their choreographies, Ive thrives on balancing grace and audacity, making their music feel both modern and timeless.

Listen to Ive if you like:
Elegant, melody‑driven pop with confident themes, music that’s both graceful and bold, and with a modern yet timeless feel.

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Le Sserafim

Company: Source Music (subsidiary of Hybe)
Debut: 2022
Members: Sakura, Chaewon, Yunjin, Kazuha, Eunchae
Former members: Garam (2022)
Fandom: Fearnot

Introduction:
The name Le Sserafim is an anagram of “I’m fearless”, and this already explains the style and message of the group, which built their identity around confidence, self‑determination, and pushing forward without hesitating. Bringing a distinctive artistic edge since the very start, their music blends pop, electronic, and dance influences with strong and catchy hooks, creating a modern style that feels both polished and bold. In their songs, they tackle themes such as ambition, resilience, and self‑belief, celebrating the ideas of courage and independence. While their singles are often bold and larger than life, their b-sides are also impossible to overlook, as they expand the group’s style massively, blending unexpected genres and showing how versatile Le Sserafim can be. Just like their music, their choreographies also feel bold and confident while remaining fun to follow, and the group always delivers their performances with sharp precision and a clear identity.

Listen to Le Sserafim if you like:
Modern dance pop with a distinct identity and attitude, and themes centered on resilience and self‑empowerment.

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Loona

Company: BlockBerry Creative
Debut: 2018
Inactive since: 2023
Members: HeeJin, HyunJin, HaSeul, YeoJin, ViVi, Kim Lip, JinSoul, Choerry, Yves, Chuu, Go Won, Olivia Hye
Fandom: Orbit

Introduction:
Loona is one of the most unique groups in K-Pop history, and it’s hard to explain the complexities of their history, structure, and music in just a few lines. Among the many aspects that made them stand out is their pre-debut project, which started in 2016 and lasted almost two years. During this period, the 12 members were introduced one by one with a solo album, and as small groups divided into three sub-units (Loona 1/3, Odd Eye Circle, and Loona yyxy), before coming together for their full group debut in 2018. Starting from almost completely unknown, Loona gained an incredible international popularity even before their official debut, gathering a passionate fanbase. This happened in no small part thanks to their music, which includes elements so distinctive that they’re often referred to as “Loona sound”. This sound is influenced by several genres that range from dream-pop to EDM to emotional ballads, and helped the group create one of the most diverse discographies in all of K-Pop. Even during their pre-debut project, Loona explored many different genres, such as dance, R&B, and electropop, and after their full group debut their music evolved from bright to intense, while still keeping their unique and instantly recognizable sound. Beyond their music, Loona stood out also because of their concept, as all their albums are connected by the same story, which happens in an alternate universe known as “Loonaverse”. Even though over time they moved away from more lore-heavy tracks, elements of this story can be found throughout many of their songs. This isn’t all, as Loona is known also for their cinematic music videos, exceptional b-sides, extremely complex choreographies, flawless performances, and the funny personality of all 12 members. Loona’s rise was halted in 2022 by a dispute with their company, which ended with the members leaving the agency in the following months, and splitting up in two groups (ARTMS and Loossemble) and two soloists (Yves and Chuu).

Listen to Loona if you like:
Dream-pop with elements of dance, R&B, EDM, and electropop, intense and complex choreographies, danceable tracks that can switch from melodic to high-energy.

See also:
ARTMS, Chuu, HeeJin, Loona 1/3, Loona yyxy, Loossemble, Odd Eye Circle, Yves

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Loona 1/3

Company: BlockBerry Creative
Debut: 2017
Inactive since: 2017
Members: HeeJin, HyunJin, HaSeul, ViVi
Fandom: Orbit (as part of Loona)

Introduction:
Loona 1/3 is the first sub‑unit introduced in the Loona pre‑debut project, setting the tone for the group’s ambitious storytelling and world‑building. This unit includes HeeJin, HyunJin, HaSeul, and ViVi, and focuses on a concept centered around innocence, youth, and emotional sincerity. With this idea, Loona 1/3 explored a softer and more sentimental side of Loona that contrasts with the bolder styles of the other two sub-units. The music of Loona 1/3, both as a group and with the solo songs of each member, leans into bright pop and soft synths with elements of contemporary R&B, combined with melodic arrangements that feel nostalgic and comforting. Meanwhile, their songs mostly explore themes of first love, longing, and the bittersweet feeling of growing up. Despite the fact that Loona 1/3 was only active with two albums in 2017, their impact on the entire project and the sound the full group would follow is notable, as they laid a solid foundation for the future success of Loona.

Listen to Loona 1/3 if you like:
Dreamy synth‑pop with soft vocals and R&B elements, and a clear aesthetic that feels emotional and sentimental.

See also:
ARTMS, Chuu, HeeJin, Loona, Loona yyxy, Loossemble, Odd Eye Circle, Yves

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Loona yyxy

Company: BlockBerry Creative
Debut: 2018
Inactive since: 2018
Members: Yves, Chuu, Go Won, Olivia Hye
Fandom: Orbit (as part of Loona)

Introduction:
Loona yyxy (pronounced as “why why by why”) is the third and final sub-unit of Loona, and introduced the last four members of the group: Yves, Chuu, Go Won, and Olivia Hye. Compared to the softness of Loona 1/3 and the confidence of Odd Eye Circle, Loona yyxy feels whimsical, introspective, and subtly rebellious. With a concept rooted in philosophical ideas and biblical references, they explore themes of self‑discovery and breaking free from expectations, confronting identity, desire, and individuality. Musically, Loona yyxy blends bright pop with dreamy synths, emotional melodies, and a surreal atmosphere that underlines the tension between innocence and independence. Meanwhile, their solo songs are extremely different, moving from cute and bright to cool and dark. Loona yyxy also notably expanded Loona’s lore, which reached its maximum complexity with this sub-unit. They were only active for one album, but their songs became among the most popular in the entire Loona project.

Listen to Loona yyxy if you like:
Dream‑pop with whimsical concepts, symbolic and philosophical themes, and emotional melodies with a surreal atmosphere.

See also:
ARTMS, Chuu, HeeJin, Loona, Loona 1/3, Loossemble, Odd Eye Circle, Yves

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Loossemble

Company: CTDENM
Debut: 2023
Inactive since: 2024
Members: HyunJin, YeoJin, ViVi, Go Won, HyeJu (formerly Olivia Hye)
Fandom: C.Loo

Introduction:
Loossemble’s name, a blend of “Loona” and “assemble” already explains the group’s origin and mission, as they were formed by five members of Loona (HyunJin, YeoJin, ViVi, Go Won, and HyeJu (previously known as Olivia Hye)), who assembled to create a new identity on their own terms. Their concept centers on exploration and emotional growth, often framed through a space‑travel narrative that symbolizes their journey toward independence as they forge their own path. Meanwhile, their music leans into bright pop and warm melodies, but with a bolder and more mature approach, creating a unique sound that feels comforting and hopeful, but also quietly confident. Thanks to these elements, the music of Loosemble feels familiar and new at the same time, giving them a fresh energy that fits the idea of building something original without forgetting your roots. After only three albums, the members left their agency at the end of 2024, with each of them going their separate ways.

Listen to Loossemble if you like:
Bright and melodic pop with mature elements, and music that blends familiarity with a fresh and independent direction.

See also:
ARTMS, Chuu, HeeJin, Loona, Loona 1/3, Loona yyxy, Odd Eye Circle, Yves

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Mamamoo

Company: RBW
Debut: 2014
Members: Solar, Moonbyul, Wheein, Hwasa
Fandom: Moo Moo

Introduction:
Mamamoo is widely recognized for being one of the strongest vocal groups in K‑Pop, a reputation they built over the years thanks to their outstanding live performances and the distinct tones of the four members. They also stood out in their early years for how they moved away from the typical K-Pop sound, exploring genres rarely seen in Korean music, such as soul and jazz, often blended with R&B, dance, and retro influences. However, they can excel with more typical pop songs too, as well as with deep and emotional ballads, and over time they moved seamlessly from playful to mature concepts. Thanks to their wide range and how they’re never afraid to experiment, Mamamoo became a symbol of artistic freedom, building their identity on talent, authenticity, and the ability to command a stage without relying on heavy concepts or elaborate production. Meanwhile, the members of the group also became known for their charisma, and each of them has built a solid career as a soloist too.

Listen to Mamamoo if you like:
Powerful vocals, soulful pop with retro and jazz influences, and mature concepts with charismatic performances.

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Momoland

Company: MLD Entertainment (2016-2023), Inyeon Entertainment (2025-present)
Debut: 2016
Members: Hyebin, Jane, Nayun, JooE, Ahin, Nancy
Former members: Yeonwoo (2016-2019), Taeha (2017-2020), Daisy (2017-2020)
Fandom: Merry-Go-Round

Introduction:
Momoland was one of the most surprising success stories of their era, growing to massive popularity thanks to their viral hits. Since their debut, they stood out thanks to their infectiously bright energy and playful concepts, while their music was immediately catchy and memorable. At the start of 2018, their popularity exploded thanks to their song “BBoom BBoom” which went massively viral and was described as one of the “most fun” K-Pop songs of that era. Momoland capitalized on their success by releasing more catchy songs with fun choreographies, leaning heavily on upbeat and dance‑friendly tracks. However, they also expanded their range with more melodic tracks that showed their versatility. Momoland also became known for their performances, which are always lively, expressive, and full of charisma and personality. The group disbanded in 2023 following the expiration of their contracts, but they then reunited in 2025 under a new agency.

Listen to Momoland if you like:
Bright and catchy pop, playful concepts, dance-oriented music with fun and easy choreographies.

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NewJeans

Former name: NJZ (2025)
Company: ADOR (subsidiary of Hybe)
Debut: 2022
Inactive since: 2025
Members: Minji, Hanni, Haerin, Hyein
Former members: Danielle (2022-2025)
Fandom: Bunnies

Introduction:
Few artists can claim to have had such a massive impact on a music genre as NewJeans on K‑Pop. When they made their debut, they brought a breath of fresh air for the K-Pop world, thanks to their laid-back and minimalist sound reminiscent of the 1990s and 2000s, and a youthful, girl-next-door image. With smooth vocals and a sound that feels both bright and nostalgic, their focus on simplicity and authenticity made them stand out, immediately launching them to superstardom. With each new release, the group expressed their aesthetic, which includes airy melodies, subtle grooves, and a dreamy but refreshing vibe that contrasts the louder concepts of many K-Pop artists. Now it’s clear that the impact NewJeans had on the K-Pop scene has been immense, and countless artists have been influenced by their style. As they topped charts and broke records, their rise seemed unstoppable, but in 2024 a complicated dispute with their agency has put NewJeans into indefinite hiatus.

Listen to NewJeans if you like:
Minimalist pop, soft vocals, laid-back and nostalgic vibes, and music that feels fresh, clean, and effortlessly stylish.

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Nmixx

Company: JYP Entertainment
Debut: 2022
Members: Lily, Haewon, Sullyoon, Bae, Jiwoo, Kyujin
Former members: Jinni (2022)
Fandom: Nswer

Introduction:
Nmixx debuted in 2022 as one of the most experimental groups in K-Pop, featuring a unique musical style dubbed “Mixx Pop”. This style is built on sudden genre shifts, bold production choices, and songs that often feel unpredictable, combining vastly different concepts into a single track. Even thought they toned down this style over the years, their music still blends pop, jazz, EDM, and more, sometimes switching genres mid‑track to create a dynamic and theatrical sound that makes their tracks instantly recognizable. Their style is energetic, quirky, and ambitious, with choreographies that match the complexity of their music. Even in their more straightforward songs, they maintain a bright and confident tone that highlights their youthful charisma and shows the group’s versatility. Nmixx is also widely recognized for their unparalleled vocal skills, as every member is an incredibly strong vocalist, able to excel in the difficult vocal techniques that their songs often require.

Listen to Nmixx if you like:
Experimental pop with jazz and EDM roots, powerful vocals, bold concepts, and music that feels surprising and unpredictable.

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Odd Eye Circle

Company: BlockBerry Creative (2017-2023), Modhaus (2023-present)
Debut: 2017
Members: Kim Lip, JinSoul, Choerry
Fandom: Orbit (as part of Loona), Ourii (as part of ARTMS)

Introduction:
The second sub-unit of Loona is Odd Eye Circle, and includes Kim Lip, JinSoul, and Choerry. Both as soloists and as a group, they took a completely different approach than Loona 1/3, with a modern synth‑pop sound that leans on a dance-pop and electropop style with influences from dream-pop and contemporary R&B. Their songs are confident and energetic, and focus on the themes of duality and temptation. The original period of their activity in 2017 coincided with a massive rise in popularity for the Loona project, and this is also when the music videos became more cinematic and lore-heavy, connecting with each other in the “Loonaverse”. With a stylish, modern, and bold style, Odd Eye Circle defined the identity of what the musical style of Loona would become. Following the split of Loona, Odd Eye Circle returned under a new agency in 2023, but their music retained its unique sound. Now, they’re part of ARTMS alongside Loona members HeeJin and HaSeul.

Listen to Odd Eye Circle if you like:
Futuristic synth‑pop, dance-pop and electropop with cool and confident concepts, and atmospheric production with a strong artistic identity.

See also:
ARTMS, Chuu, HeeJin, Loona, Loona 1/3, Loona yyxy, Loossemble, Yves

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Red Velvet

See Red Velvet

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TripleS

Company: Modhaus
Debut: 2023
Members: SeoYeon, HyeRin, JiWoo, ChaeYeon, YooYeon, SooMin, NaKyoung, YuBin, Kaede, DaHyun, Kotone, YeonJi, Nien, SoHyun, Xinyu, Mayu, Lynn, JooBin, HaYeon, ShiOn, ChaeWon, Sullin, SeoAh, JiYeon
Fandom: Wav

Introduction:
TripleS is one of the most peculiar and innovative K-Pop groups, as they feature various unique concepts. First of all, they’re the biggest girl group in K-Pop, with a total of 24 members who were slowly revealed over the course of two years. Initially introduced as sub-units, they debuted with ten members in 2023, making their full debut with all the members the following year. They also aim to be a decentralized group, with the members rotating between full group, sub-units, and solo activities. With this concept, TripleS has introduced a wide range of ever-changing sub-units over the years, each with their unique sound, but all connected to a singular identity, which often links back to a particular “la la la” chant in their songs. This isn’t all, as TripleS also relies heavily on fan participation, as fans can vote on everything from which members to include in each lineup to what songs to release. Beyond their distinctive concept, TripleS is also known for their sound, which spans from R&B to dream-pop to alternative, and often includes experimental production, as well as their complex and excellent performances. Meanwhile, their songs can range from upbeat to dark, while keeping a cohesive identity. Thanks to their structure, TripleS is extremely versatile, and each new project, both as a full group and with their sub-units, always feels new and fresh.

Dig even deeper:
Due to the unique structure of TripleS, it’s also important to explore the music of their ever-changing sub-units, which is part of their identity as much as their full group songs.

Listen to TripleS if you like:
Experimental synth‑pop with elements of R&B, dream-pop, and alternative, and music that can span numerous genres and concepts without losing its identity.

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Twice

See Twice