K-POP idols have taken the world by storm, and while BTS might be the first name that comes to mind, there’s so much more to explore! Dive into the world of K-POP with a guide to Korea’s top four entertainment agencies and the legendary idol groups from Girls Generation and TVXQ to BIGBANG and aespa! 👀
Near Seongsu
1️⃣ SM Entertainment
Reference: facebook.com/smtown
As the oldest of Korea's four major entertainment agencies, SM Entertainment has been a trailblazer in shaping K-POP, including creating the trainee training system. Located in D TOWER near Seoul Forest Station, the headquarters has some cool spots for fans, like SM idol merchandise and photo zones, giving fans a chance to get closer to their favorite stars.
✨ SM Idol Groups ✨
- Reference: facebook.com/tvxqTVXQ!Debuting as a five-member boy group with the name meaning "Rising Gods of the East," TVXQ! now performs as a duo, mainly in Japan and Korea. Known for their powerful performances, they have been adored across Asia since their debut, particularly in Japan.
- Reference: x.com/SJofficial/photoSuper JuniorThis 13-member boy group debuted in 2005, captivating fans with addictive melodies and large-scale performances. Popular across Asia, they’ve also engaged in sub-unit activities such as K.R.Y and D&E, expanding their musical versatility.
- Reference: facebook.com/photo/?fbid=827580382059339&set=a.288341792649870EXOA boy group with a sci-fi-inspired concept of superpowered boys from "EXO Planet" landing on Earth. Initially divided into EXO-K, focusing on Korea, and EXO-M, targeting China, they've become global icons with their unique lore.
- Reference: facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1024332939063254&set=a.263133985183157Red VelvetA girl group embodying dual concepts of vibrant and bold "Red" and elegant and sophisticated "Velvet." Known for their stunning visuals and talent, they enjoy immense popularity, especially among female fans.
- Reference: facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1766817360240519&set=a.275519027274266NCTOperating under the concept of "infinite expansion," NCT features members performing in diverse sub-units. Their global tours span regions including North and South America, Europe, and Asia, showcasing their unparalleled versatility.
- Reference: facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1038592071397950&set=a.206361361287696aespaOne of Korea's hottest girl groups, aespa has garnered attention with its unique concept of interacting with avatars in virtual reality. In 2024, they expanded their reach by debuting in Japan with their first single.
- Reference: facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122120785760010080&set=a.122113318070010080RIIZEMaking their debut in 2023, RIIZE is a boy group made up of members from diverse cultural backgrounds. With standout members like former NCT member Shotaro and rising star Wonbin, the group is rapidly gaining recognition and popularity.
SM EntertainmentAttraction · Seoul(Seongsu)
Kwangya SeoulAttraction · Seoul(Seongsu)
Haven for K-POP fans!
2️⃣ YG Entertainment
Reference: facebook.com/ygfamily
Founded by a former member of the legendary 1990s group Seo Taiji and Boys, YG Entertainment built its reputation on hip-hop and street genres. Known for encouraging creativity, many of its artists are heavily involved in songwriting, composing, and producing. Since the mid-2010s, YG has become a global powerhouse, with BLACKPINK leading the way through their massive international success.
✨ YG Idol Groups ✨
- Reference: facebook.com/BLACKPINKOFFICIALBLACKPINKYG's iconic girl group, BLACKPINK blends boldness with femininity, captivating a global audience with their dynamic charm. Blackpink's Rosé teamed up with Bruno Mars for her single 'APT,' which became a global hit!
- Reference: facebook.com/BIGBANGBIGBANGDubbed 'The Beatles of Korea,' this iconic boy group has achieved international acclaim across Japan, Europe, and beyond. Member G-Dragon remains a fashion icon in Korea, and he returned to the stage with his new album POWER in 2024.
- Reference: facebook.com/OfficialYGWINNERWINNERThe group was fromed through a YG survival program, and WINNER gained experience as opening acts for Japan's dome tours even before their debut. Their emotive music and undeniable talent continue to win hearts globally.
- Reference: facebook.com/OfficialTreasureTREASUREThis 10-member boy group emerged victorious from another YG survival program, earning multiple rookie awards upon debut. In 2024, their Japanese tour attracted 300,000 fans, with successful shows across other Asian countries as well.
- Reference: facebook.com/BABYMONSTER.ygofficialBABYMONSTERA girl group with members from various nationalities, BABYMONSTER is known for their impressive skills and unique individuality, making waves both in Korea and globally. Their polished performances are setting a new standard for rookie acts.
YG EntertainmentAttraction · Seoul(Hongdae)
The Same ERestaurant · Seoul(Hongdae)
The SameE InsaAttraction · Seoul(Gwanghwamun)
Nurturing talented idols
3️⃣ JYP Entertainment
Reference: facebook.com/jypnation
Founded in 1997 by a renowned singer/songwriter, Park Jinyoung, JYP Entertainment is famous for its all-around training system that helps artists sharpen their skills in vocals, dance, and even foreign languages. Park has been hands-on with music production and scouting since day one. In the 2010s, JYP launched global groups like TWICE and Stray Kids, solidifying its place as a powerhouse in the K-POP industry.
✨ JYP Idol Groups ✨
- Reference: facebook.com/JYPETWICETWICEA defining girl group of K-POP's third generation, TWICE enjoys massive popularity for their broad appeal and strong fanbase. The Japanese unit group MISAMO, formed by members Mina, Sana, and Momo, has also become a sensation.
- Reference: facebook.com/JYPEStrayKidsStray KidsThis powerhouse boy group excels in visuals, talent, and songwriting. The team was formed by Bang Chan, who personally selected the members at the time of debut, showcasing a wide music spectrum and unique musical genres.
- Reference: facebook.com/OfficialItzyITZYKnown for their high-energy performances and impressive live vocals, ITZY rose to fame by sweeping rookie awards. Member Chaeryeong, who competed on a Korean audition program with her twin sister Chaeyeon, has found her spotlight in ITZY, while Chaeyeon pursues a solo career.
- Reference: facebook.com/NMIXXOfficialNMIXXPraised as one of the best live performers among 4th-generation girl groups, NMIXX pioneers the Mix-Pop genre by blending multiple music styles into a single track. Member Haewon stands out with her charisma, currently dominating Korean commercials and variety shows.
- Reference: facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1036723041146062&set=a.293446882140352DAY6A rare boy band in the K-POP scene, DAY6 impresses with their exceptional vocals, instrumentation, and songwriting. Their past albums have recently topped the music charts. What’s surprising is that the members haven’t been learning music for long!
JYP EntertainmentAttraction · Seoul
The rising start maker
4️⃣ HYBE Entertainment
Reference: facebook.com/HYBEOFFICIALfb
Originally founded as Big Hit Entertainment, the company rebranded to HYBE in 2021. While the youngest of Korea's four major entertainment agencies, HYBE’s influence is anything but small. Led by BTS, HYBE achieved global success, paving the way for groups like SEVENTEEN and LE SSERAFIM to thrive internationally. With offices in the U.S. and Japan, HYBE has solidified its presence as a global entertainment powerhouse.
✨ HYBE Idol Groups ✨
- Reference: facebook.com/bangtan.officialBTSA seven-member boy group that’s played a huge role in K-POP’s global success, BTS is known for holding tons of “firsts” and “biggest” records in K-POP history. They started out as a hip-hop group led by RM, but after some evolution and fine-tuning, they’ve become masters in dance, vocals, and rap, winning fans all over the world.
- Reference: facebook.com/seventeennewsSEVENTEENInitially introduced as a 17-member group with an average age of 17, SEVENTEEN debuted with 13 members after a rigorous pre-debut journey. Famous for their synchronized and complex performances, the group continues to impress with their stagecraft and creativity.
- Reference: facebook.com/officialENHYPENENHYPENA multinational boy group formed through a 2020 music audition program, ENHYPEN quickly gained recognition for their stellar performances and stage presence. They hold the distinction of being the fastest K-POP boy group to perform at Tokyo Dome.
- Reference: facebook.com/official.lesserafimLE SSERAFIMHYBE's first girl group after its rebranding, LE SSERAFIM garnered early attention thanks to the members who appeared on the audition show "Produce 48." Member Huh Yunjin even turned down a U.S. university offer to join the group, underscoring their passion and commitment.
- Reference: facebook.com/TXT.bighitTOMORROW X TOGETHERFrom their debut album, TXT made waves on the Billboard charts. The group name means "different people coming together under one dream in hopes of building a better tomorrow." Targeting Gen Z, their boyish charm and fairy tale-like storytelling in their songs have captivated fans globally.
HYBEAttraction · Seoul(Itaewon)
Other Entertainment Agencies
☑️ Starship Entertainment
Reference: starship-ent.com/company/about.php
Starship Entertainment is a dynamic agency managing singers, idols, and actors. One of its standout groups, IVE, which features K-POP star Jang Wonyoung, is gaining massive popularity in Korea. Known for their high-quality music and exceptional styling, their performances always leave an impression. .
✨ K-POP Idol Groups from Starship
IVE, MONSTA X, CRAVITY, and more
Starship EntertainmentAttraction · Seoul(Gangnam)
☑️ CUBE Entertainment
Reference: x.com/CUBEentertainer
Since its foundation in 2006, CUBE Entertainment has launched numerous successful idols, including 4Minute, Beast, and BTOB. Today, it's home to rising stars like (G)I-DLE and Pentagon, while continuously debuting new talent. Located in Seongsu, the headquarter office feature a café called Cubi Story on B1 where fans can listen to music and check out merch.
✨ K-POP Idol Groups from CUBE
(G)I-DLE, Pentagon, and more
CUBE EntertainmentAttraction · Seoul(Seongsu)
Cubi StoryRestaurant · Seoul(Seongsu)