The rising competition of the 5th generation K-pop has just begun with unbelievably impressive talents and skills. Combining the recommendation from The Recording Academy and Kpoppost’s own curated picks, we have compiled a list of top 10 K-pop rookie idol groups worth to watch in 2025. With superior qualities and top-tier members, these rookies will surely thrive among all the 5th generation K-pop groups! So, who are they? Join our discussion below.
Top 10 Rookie K-pop Idol Groups to Stan in 2025
If you’re craving fresh talent and new music in K-pop, you’ve come to the right place. The 5th generation K-pop is in full bloom, and the latest rookie K-pop idol groups are already shaking up the 2025 stage with their unique concepts, killer choreography, and versatile music styles.
So, get your notes ready—here are our curated list of the top 10 rookie K-pop groups 2025 you need to stan!
1. MEOVV
Meet the group that pounces onto the scene with feline fierceness. MEOVV is a five-member girl group from the legendary BLACKPINK’s producer Teddy Park’s company, THEBLACKLABEL, boasting an edgy blend of hip-hop and pop.
They catapulted onto everyone’s radar with their debut track “Meow,” mesmerizing fans with confident stage charisma. And their latest comeback “BODY” received incredible responses from fans.
Not only that but MEOVV also successfully secured a “Favorite Rising Artist” award at the 2025 MAMA Awards. This impressive achievement proved they’re already big contenders among our list of 2025 rookie K-pop idol groups.
2. izna
Born from the survival show “I-LAND 2: N/a,” izna exploded in popularity with their debut mini-album, N/a. This seven-member powerhouse not only delivers breathtaking synchronized dances but also stands out for their honeyed vocals.
Their track “IZNA” made waves at the 2024 MAMA Awards, leaving everyone hungry for more. This group is all about transformation, and we can’t wait to see them evolve.
3. KickFlip
Are you bored with those same-old concept? Do you need something more refreshing to stan among all the mediocre rookie K-pop idol groups in 2025? If yes, then JYP Entertainment new boy group KickFlip will be the right group to stan this year!
KickFlip showcases the perfect demonstration of youthful energy you may long miss from K-pop. The group’s skateboarding vibes, daring choreography, and rebellious flair in their pre-release track, “Umm Great” has set the standard high for new generation K-pop. That’s why fans are especially looking forward to the release of their mini-album, “Flip It, Kick It!”
Each member of KickFlip brings a unique flavor, assuring you that they are truly among the superior K-pop idol groups to watch in 2025.
4. Hearts2Hearts
SM Entertainment’s new girl group, Hearts2Hearts, is shaping up to be the next big sisterhood to watch. With eight rumored members from diverse backgrounds—including Carmen from Bali, Indonesia!—this group has set the internet on fire.
Their concept teaser hints at strong vocal lines and fierce dancing, reminiscent of Girls’ Generation’s iconic synergy. Debuting in February 2025, they’re all set to add fresh sparkle to rookie K-pop groups 2025.
5. AtHeart
AtHeart, TITAN new K-pop girl group, is redefining the scene with global flair and heartfelt artistry. Featuring Sorin from South Korea and Michi from Hawaii, the group blends emotional storytelling with cutting-edge innovation.
Therefore, with this all-star team and Web3 + AI-powered fan platforms, AtHeart will surely deliver bold performances, and deep connections with fans. So, if you’re ready for the next evolution of K-pop, AtHeart is the rookie group to watch in 2025!
6. SAY MY NAME
Next, we have SAY MY NAME (SMN), the highly anticipated debut group from iNKODE, the agency founded by K-pop legend Kim Jaejoong. Known for his groundbreaking career, Jaejoong brings his vision to life with SMN, a multinational lineup that radiates positivity and fresh energy.
Their debut track, “WaveWay,” from their self-titled EP, is a free-spirited anthem that feels like a perpetual summer vacation. Featuring members who’ve already shone in survival shows, SMN is all about delivering high-stakes performances with a playful twist.
With Kim Jaejoong at the helm, SAY MY NAME will surely become one of the rookie K-pop idol groups destined for greatness in 2025!
7. QWER
QWER is the four-member band that merges K-pop’s theatrical flair with J-pop-inspired rock. Each member is a skilled instrumentalist, contributing to a fresh sound rarely heard among new idol groups.
Their breakout single “T.B.H (고민중독)” became a chart darling. And their “Hot Trend Award” win at 2024 Melon Music Awards has cemented QWER’s place among the best rookie K-pop groups to watch in 2025.
8. RESCENE
Meanwhile, we have RESCENE popping onto the scene with whimsical tracks like “YoYo” and “UhUh.” This group later solidified their brand reputation with “Love Attack” from their EP Scenedrome.
Their name, blending “scene” and “scent,” symbolizes leaving a long-lasting musical fragrance in listeners’ hearts. With their vibrant choreography and soulful melodies—what’s not to love from this rookie K-pop group, really?
9. ARTMS
When LOONA suffered from legal disputes with Blockberry Creative, fans were heartbroken to see the future of their favorite group crushed in an instant. Fortunately, we didn’t lose all its promising members, even when the group no longer exists.
Meet ARTMS, one of the most sensational rookie K-pop idol groups you must definitely watch in 2025!
Formed by five former LOONA members—JinSoul, HaSeul, Kim Lip, HeeJin, and Choerry—ARTMS itself may be a rookie, but definitely not its members! Their re-debut under ModHaus gave them a second wind, and they’re making waves with tracks like “Virtual Angel.”
Therefore, if you loved LOONA’s boundary-pushing style, ARTMS is your must-follow rookie K-pop idol group this year.
10. SM New Boy Group
Last but definitely not least, SM Entertainment is gearing up to debut a brand-new boy group in the second half of 2025.
Though details remain in mystery, rumors already swirl about top trainees with mesmerizing dance skills and honey-like vocals. With SM’s track record: EXO, NCT, and SHINee, this future debut is sure to be a seismic event in K-pop.
So, among this list of all the top 10 rookie K-pop groups, which one do you think will surely thrive in 2025? Or, is the any more rookie group you believe to raise the challenge within the K-pop industry this year? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.
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