Based our researcH, here are some underrated K-pop groups worth checking out:
Boy Groups
TAN: A 7-member group formed through the survival show “Extreme Debut: Wild Idol”. They debuted in 2022 and produce their own music.
GHOST9: A 7-member group under Maroo Entertainment that participated in the survival show “PEAK TIME” and finished in the top 10.
VAV: A self-producing 6-member group that debuted in 2015. They write, compose and produce their own music.
HIGHLIGHT: Formerly known as BEAST, this veteran 4-member group rebranded in 2016 after leaving Cube Entertainment.
A.C.E: A 5-member group known for their EDM and pop sound. Their recent album “My Girl: My Choice” showcases their musicality.
ATBO: A 7-member group that debuted in 2022 with a blend of hip-hop and R&B styles, as heard in “Next To Me” and “Attitude”.
The KingDom: A 7-member group with a grand, historical sound fitting for K-dramas, like “COUP D’ETAT” and “Ascension”.
LUN8: An 8-member group with an upbeat, bright pop sound, like their recent album “BUFF” and title track “SUPER POWER”.
LUMINOUS: A 4-member group aiming to convey hope and comfort to youth through their music, like “Youth”.
Girl Groups
PIXY: A talented 5-member group whose EPs have charted on the Gaon Album Charts, with “Chosen Karma” peaking at #20.
ICHILLIN’: A 7-member group that debuted in 2021 with the track “GOT’YA” under KM Entertainment.
bugAboo: A 6-member group from A Team Entertainment that debuted in late 2021 with “bugAboo”.
Billlie: A 7-member group from Mystic Story, known for their unique debut “GingaMingaYo (The Strange World)”.
Rocking Doll: A 4-member group that debuted in late 2021 under SRP Entertainment with their self-titled album.
H1-KEY: A 4-member group where members Hwiseo and Riina gained attention on “Queendom Puzzle”.
ILY:1: A 6-member group from FCENM Entertainment that debuted in 2022 with “Love in Bloom”.
LAPILLUS: A rising 6-member group appointed as ambassadors for the 2023 Boryeong Mud Festival.
Have any of these underrated K-Pop groups won awards or competitions?
Yes, there are several underrated K-pop groups that have won awards or competitions despite not being from major entertainment agencies. Based on the search results, here are some examples:
ATBO
- A 7-member boy group that debuted in 2022 under Sublime Artist Agency.
- They won the 2022 Brand of the Year award for Best New Male Artist.
- Their debut single “Attitude” topped several charts upon release.
The KingDom
- A 7-member boy group that debuted in 2022 under Zion Music.
- They won Best New Male Dance Performance at the 2022 Seoul Music Awards for “COUP D’ETAT”.
- Their grand, historical concepts suit K-drama soundtracks well.
Billlie
- A 7-member girl group formed by Mystic Story in 2021.
- Won Best New Female Artist at the 2022 Seoul Music Awards.
- Their debut “GingaMingaYo (The Strange World)” was a unique release that gained attention.
H1-KEY
- A 4-member girl group under Grandline Group that debuted in 2022.
- Members Hwiseo and Riina gained popularity on Mnet’s Queendom Puzzle competition.
- Won the Rookie Award at the 2022 Asia Artist Awards.
LAPILLUS
- A 6-member girl group from MLD Entertainment that debuted in 2022.
- Appointed as ambassadors for the 2023 Boryeong Mud Festival, indicating rising popularity.
- Their debut “Hit Ya!” charted well on Korean charts.
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