10 K-pop Boy Groups Every New Fan Should Know

BTS is a big part of the reason K-pop became a global phenomenon. Silvia Elizabeth Pangaro / Shutterstock

The K-pop boy groups leading the global wave aren't just breaking records—they're redefining pop music with each album drop and live performance.

From intricate choreography and street dancing to top-tier vocals and songwriting, these boy bands are at the top of their game.

1. BTS

Formed under Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE), BTS became a worldwide sensation thanks to their meaningful lyrics, killer choreography, and genre-defying sound. They brought K-pop to a new level of global recognition.

The group dominated the US Billboard charts, achieving multiple No. 1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 and several No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200.

2. Stray Kids

Stray Kids, under JYP Entertainment, stand out for their self-produced tracks and explosive stage presence. Bang Chan, Han, and other members contribute heavily to songwriting and production.

Their albums consistently top music charts and move massive units, including over one million copies sold for recent releases.

3. NCT (NCT 127, NCT Dream, NCT U, NCT Wish)

A K-pop group built on the idea of infinite expansion, NCT includes multiple subunits with distinct concepts. NCT Dream appeals to a younger audience, NCT U changes its lineup by song, and NCT 127 is known for innovative, genre-defying music arrangements.

NCT Wish is the latest unit, aiming to bridge Korean and Japanese fans. SM Entertainment manages all units under the NCT brand.

4. SEVENTEEN

This self-producing group of 13 members is known for tight synchronization, creative input, and massive fan engagement.

Divided into three sub-units (hip-hop, vocal, and performance), SEVENTEEN excels across all aspects of K-pop—from songwriting to martial arts-inspired choreography.

5. MONSTA X

MONSTA X, formed by Starship Entertainment, is a Korean boy band that fuses pop with EDM and hip-hop.

Known for their powerful live performances and international appeal, the group has built a strong fanbase in both Korea and abroad. Their albums often feature English tracks aimed at global listeners.

6. ENHYPEN

Formed through a survival show and backed by HYBE and CJ ENM, ENHYPEN quickly rose to fame with cinematic concepts and dynamic music.

With seven members, the group blends dark storytelling with polished visuals and choreography. They're often at the top of K-pop album sales charts.

7. ATEEZ

ATEEZ made waves with their high-energy performances and strong international presence. Managed by KQ Entertainment, the group is known for combining street dancing with powerful vocals.

Their concept-heavy albums attract fans who love a mix of theatrical flair and musical depth.

8. TREASURE

Backed by YG Entertainment, TREASURE debuted with massive hype and quickly proved their worth. The group mixes strong rap lines, dance, and catchy hooks, appealing to both Korean and Japanese markets. Their visuals and vocals keep them in the spotlight.

9. TXT (Tomorrow X Together)

Another HYBE group, TXT represents the next generation of K-pop boy bands. They blend pop, rock, and electronic elements, exploring themes of youth and growth.

TXT consistently hits high on music charts and is known for polished live shows and creative albums.

10. JO1

A Japanese-Korean act formed through the reality show "Produce 101 Japan," JO1 is managed by Lapone Entertainment, with Sony Music Entertainment Japan distributing their releases.

Though not based in South Korea, their influence in the K-pop world is significant. They release K-pop-style songs and perform with the precision fans expect from Korean boy groups.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.