Some debuts are loud, some are unforgettable, these rookies who debuted in 2025 are simply FAMOUS. From bold concepts to eye‑catching performances, they have quickly made their mark in a crowded K‑pop scene. As 2026 begins, we’ll be keeping a close eye on these rookie groups and their next releases and activities, looking forward to seeing how these groups shine, dominate, and redefine K‑pop.
1. ALLDAY PROJECT
This mixed-gender group under The Black Label quickly became one of the buzziest K-Pop debuts of 2025. The lineup immediately drew attention, with BaileySok bringing recognition from her impressive work as a choreographer, while Woochan first entered the public eye in 2017 after appearing on “Show Me the Money 6”at just 12 years old. Youngseo too, came in with strong pre-debut buzz after placing second on the survival show “R U Next?” and almost debuting with Belift Lab’s girl group ILLIT. Tarzzan may be familiar to fans through his appearance in NewJeans’ “Supernatural” music video.
ALLDAY PROJECT officially debuted with “Famous” and “Wicked”, both of which gained major traction and helped define their early momentum. Beyond music, the group has extended its influence into fashion, with Annie and Woochan’s appearance at Thom Browne’s Paris fashion show going viral and underscoring ALLDAY PROJECT’s growing cultural presence heading into 2026.
2. CORTIS
This five-member boy band has quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with since their debut. Their pre-debut single “Go!” gained significant attention, showcasing their talent even before their official debut. All five members are deeply involved in the creative process, contributing to songwriting, production, and choreography not only for their own music but also for major HYBE artists such as TXT and ILLIT. Their artistry has been recognized with multiple rookie awards at year-end award shows like the MAMA and Asia Artist Awards.
3. Hearts2Hearts
If you’re looking to Focus on the next big thing in K-Pop, Hearts2Hearts is where your attention should be! SM Entertainment’s latest sweethearts are an eight-member girl group blending dreamy pop with confident, empowering themes. The lineup boasts SM’s first Indonesian artist, Carmen, and marks the company’s first new girl group since aespa‘s debut in 2020.
Hearts2Hearts has already made waves with releases like “Style” and “Focus”, both of which performed exceptionally well on music charts. They’re starting 2026 strong, with fan meetings planned in Korea and North America, giving fans plenty of chances to see them live.
4. XLOV
It’s impossible not to notice XLOV, a group turning heads with a look and concept unlike anything else in K-Pop. Challenging stereotypes with a bold, genderless approach, they just celebrated their first anniversary on January 7, marking a year of blending traditionally masculine and feminine aesthetics in both visuals and performances.
Backed by solid talent and a strong visual identity that sets them apart, XLOV has already toured Japan and is planning broader activities, including upcoming European dates, with some shows already selling out. With attention from around the world, we’re rooting for XLOV and can’t wait to see them succeed!
5. AHOF
This rising K-Pop group made an explosive entrance to the industry by winning a triple crown on music shows within just 10 days of their debut. They quickly sold out their first fan concert in Manila, demonstrating their growing international appeal, and capped off 2025 by winning Best New Artist at the Asian Artist Awards in Kaohsiung.
AHOF has since held fan concerts in Korea and is continuing to expand their presence across Asia. The group includes Filipino member JL from Philippine boy group Pluus, Steven who participated in Produce X 101, and Cha Woong-ki and Zhang Shuaibo, both of whom appeared on Mnet’s Boys Planet. AHOF also connects with fans through regular TikTok posts, sharing behind-the-scenes moments and playful glimpses of their personalities.
