The Billboard K-Pop Artist 100 is back!
The 2025 ranking was compiled by Billboard Korea in partnership with Billboard based on each artist’s achievements from October 2024 to September 2025 on the U.S.-based Billboard Hot 100 songs chart and Billboard 200 albums chart, along with the internationally reflective Billboard Global 200 songs chart, global Billboard Boxscore touring data and streaming and songs sales activity within Korea. Luminate is the streaming and sales source for all of the respective rankings (excluding Billboard Boxscore).
The No. 1 spot goes to SEVENTEEN and its 13 members, with consistent performance in the U.S., global and Korean markets. SEVENTEEN’s decade-long career reached new heights this year, cementing its status as one of the most powerful K-pop groups. The act had an exceptionally active year — not only in touring, but also in album releases. Spill the Feels (November 2024) debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200, while SEVENTEEN’s most recent album, HAPPY BURSTDAY, debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 in June. Additionally, three of the group’s subunits — BSS, HOSHI X WOOZI and CxM (S.COUPS X MINGYU) — released albums that contributed to the brand’s global dominance.
One of the most groundbreaking moments of the year came from BLACKPINK’s Rosé, whose collaboration with Bruno Mars on “APT.” debuted at No. 8 on the Hot 100 in October 2024, making her the highest-charting solo female artist in K-pop history; the song went on to peak at No. 3 in February. She already earned chart honors as a member of BLACKPINK, the highest-charting K-pop girl group to date on the Hot 100.
Meanwhile, Stray Kids continued their record-breaking streak, achieving two No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 with HOP in December 2024 and KARMA in August 2025. The albums helped make them the first act from any country to debut at No. 1 with its first seven chart entries on the Billboard 200 since the chart began publishing on a regular weekly basis in 1956.
ATEEZ also reached a new milestone with Golden Hour: Part 2, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in November 2024, marking the group’s second album to achieve this distinction. In 2025, ATEEZ appeared on the Billboard 200 and Hot 100 with their album Golden Hour: Part 3 and the song “Lemon Drop,” respectively.
Additionally, TWICE’s fourth studio album THIS IS FOR remained on the Billboard 200 for 14 consecutive weeks since its release in July. “Strategy” and “TAKEDOWN (JEONGYEON, JIHYO, CHAEYOUNG)” from KPop Demon Hunters also received notable attention, peaking at No. 51 and No. 50 on the Hot 100, respectively.
A closer look at the charts reveals several notable trends that defined the performance of the K- pop genre in the past year. First, groups that debuted after 2023 made a strong showing. BOYNEXTDOOR placed five consecutive releases on the Billboard 200, while ILLIT — who entered the Hot 100 with their debut track “Magnetic” — saw their album bomb hit the Billboard 200 this July. KATSEYE is particularly dominant, with their EP Beautiful Chaos gaining steady momentum, and both “ Gnarly” and “Gabriela” entering the Hot 100, where “Gabriela” peaked at No. 33. KATSEYE kicked of their first U.S. tour in November.
Second, K-pop artists’ solo activities stood out. Following Rosé, who released her first studio album Rosie in December 2024, all BLACKPINK members went on to to release albums or mini-albums as well. The group also returned with “Jump” in July, debuting at No. 28 on the Hot 100. BLACKPINK, which kicked off their DEADLINE World Tour in July, has also announced a comeback scheduled for January. NCT members Mark and Haecha launched their first solo albums, while i-dle’s Minnie, Yuqi and Miyeon also continued individual promotions. Meanwhile, BTS members JIN and j-hope, who completed service earlier, pursued solo releases and embarked on their first world tours as solo artists. All BTS members promised to come back in March, and will likely shake up the rankings once again.
A stark contrast between the U.S. and Korean music charts emerged in 2024. While bands like DAY6 experienced a phenomenal year in Korea — dominating domestic streaming platforms with both old and new hits (“Happy,” “Welcome to the Show,” “Time of Our Life,” “You Were Beautiful,” and “Congratulations”) and selling out major venues, their success has yet to generate major attention in the U.S. market. The continued rise of Korean bands raises the question of whether the K-band genre will gain similar traction internationally in the coming years.
Finally, we cannot overlook the phenomenal success of KPop Demon Hunters. What kind of presence will the voices of HUNTR/X and Saja Boys, born of the smash 2025 Netflix film, establish moving forward Keep your eyes on K-pop through the final moments of 2025.
For the 2025 Billboard K-Pop Artist 100, group members are sometimes listed together, except for where notable solo or unit activity separates the artists. Member order generally follows the official listings provided by their agencies, though those on hiatus for military service are placed toward the bottom.
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DAY6
Celebrating their 10th anniversary in 2025, DAY6 is a four-piece band under JYP Entertainment — the same label behind TWICE, ITZY and Stray Kids. The members are SUNGJIN (vocals/guitar), Young K (bass/vocals), WONPIL (vocals/keyboard) and DOWOON (drums). Even during their military service period, songs like “You Were Beautiful” and “Time of Our Life” saw a resurgence on Korean streaming charts. In 2024, YouTube Music ranked DAY6 as the highest-charting male idol group of the year, and in 2025 they became the first Korean band ever to perform a solo stadium tour in celebration of their 10th anniversary. With their third world tour Forever Young held across 2024 and 2025, DAY6 visited 18 cities around the world.
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RM (BTS)
The leader and main rapper of BTS, RM began his solo career in 2015 with his first mixtape Rap Monster and officially changed his stage name to RM in 2017. His 2018 mixtape mono. topped the iTunes Album Chart worldwide, showcasing his strength as both a producer and lyricist. In 2022, his first studio album Indigo peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, setting a new record for the highest-ranking Korean solo artist at the time. His second album Right Place, Wrong Person reached No. 5 on the same chart. In 2026, he is set to hold a special exhibition at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art expanding his influence to art.
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G-DRAGON
G-DRAGON is back! In October 2024, he resumed his solo career after seven years with the single “PO₩ER.” In February, he dropped his third full-length album Übermensch and immediately kicked off his tour. His comeback dominated both global and Korean charts, proving that fans around the world had been eagerly awaiting his music. G-DRAGON is also set to perform with his fellow BIGBANG members at Coachella 2026.
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P1Harmony
Consisting of six members — Keeho, Theo, Jiung, Intak, Soul and Jongseob — P1Harmony entered the Billboard 200 with four consecutive releases. In October, their first English-language album EX debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard 200, underscoring their accelerating global rise. P1Harmony is also recognized for their dynamic stage presence. The group’s new tour, P1ustage H: MOST WANTED, which kicked off in August, aims to reach 25 cities worldwide, including eight stops across North America.
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KATSEYE
Formed through the global audition program The Debut: Dream Academy, KATSEYE is a multinational girl group under HYBE and Geffen Records that officially debuted on June 28, 2024. The six-member lineup — Daniela, Lara, Manon, Megan, Sophia and the only Korean member Yoonchae — made their debut in the United States. Their single “Gnarly” reached No. 90 on the Hot 100 and their follow-up track “Gabriela” climbed to No. 30 on the Nov. 15, 2025, chart, marking their highest placement yet. KATSEYE kicked off their first concert tour Beautiful Chaos in late November.
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BOYNEXTDOOR
BOYNEXTDOOR (Seongho, Riwoo, Myeong Jaehyeon, Taesan, Ihan and Unhak) — who debuted in 2023 — is quickly emerging as one of K-pop’s fastest-rising acts. The group’s 4th EP: No Genre, released last May, debuted at No. 62 on the Billboard 200, marking their fourth entry on the chart — an impressive streak for a rookie group less than two years into its career. BOYNEXTDOOR also achieved its first-ever No. 1 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 with “Count to Love” from BOYLIFE. Adding to their growing global presence, the sextet made a successful appearance at Lollapalooza. The team, which has been ranking high not only on the U.S. and global charts but also on Korean charts, made their comeback in October with new EP The Action.
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Shuhua (i-dle)
Yeh Shuhua is the youngest of the group. Originally a theater major at an arts high school, she shifted her dream from acting to K-pop after being captivated by its performance energy. Known for her bold, witty personality, she has shown remarkable improvement in vocals and stage presence since the group reorganized as five members.
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Yuqi (i-dle)
Inspired by Super Junior to pursue K-pop, Yuqi passed Cube Entertainment’s audition and moved to Korea during high school. She regularly contributes to songwriting and composition, having co-written and composed “Giant” from her first solo single A Page. She released her first solo EP in 2024, followed by the single “Motivation” in 2025, further establishing herself as a multifaceted artist.
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Soyeon (i-dle)
Soyeon is the act’s leader, main rapper and creative core. Before debut, she gained recognition through Produce 101 and Unpretty Rapstar 3. Since debuting in 2018, Soyeon has written, composed and produced most of i-dle’s title tracks, shaping the team’s distinct musical and visual identity. She continues to expand her influence as a producer.
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Minnie (i-dle)
With her dreamy, otherworldly tone, Minnie broadens the group’s identity. A prolific songwriter and composer, Minnie released her first solo mini-album HER in January, cementing her position as a producer/artist. Fluent in Thai, Korean and English, she continues to explore acting and fashion alongside her music career.
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Miyeon (i-dle)
Main vocalist Miyeon is known for her clear tone and steady vocal control. Beyond her flawless stage presence, her candid and down-to-earth charm endears her to fans. She released her first solo album in 2022 and co-produced the 2025 single “Sky Walking,” expanding her range as a singer/songwriter. Her solo project My Lover arrived last month.
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V (BTS)
V is known for his soulful tone and striking visuals that captivate fans worldwide. His 2023 solo album Layover debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, marking the highest-charting position for a K-pop solo album to date. The title track “Slow Dancing” entered the Hot 100 at No. 51, while “Love Me Again” and “Rainy Days” also appeared on Billboard’s global charts. After opening his Instagram account, he set multiple Guinness World Records by becoming the fastest person to surpass 1 million followers and then attained 65 million followers, solidifying his status as a globally influential artist whose every move draws attention.
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Lisa (BLACKPINK)
Born in Thailand, Lisa became YG Entertainment’s first non-Korean artist and debuted in 2016 as BLACKPINK’s rapper, dancer and vocalist. Her 2021 solo debut album LALISA entered the Hot 100, earning her global acclaim, while the B-side track “Money” became the first song by a K-pop solo artist to surpass 1 billion streams on Spotify. She currently holds the highest number of Instagram followers among K-pop artists worldwide — approximately 100 million — and graced the global cover of Billboard Magazine in November 2024. She also made strides as an actress, starring in season 3 of HBO’s White Lotus, premiering in February.
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Iroha (ILLIT)
Iroha began her trainee life at JYP Entertainment in 2019 before competing on R U Next?, where she placed fifth and earned a spot in the debut lineup. She currently serves as the group’s main dancer.
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Wonhee (ILLIT)
Wonhee became a trainee after being street-cast by BELIFT LAB. When she appeared on the survival audition program R U Next?, she had trained for only about one month — and by the show’s finale, just around 11 weeks — making her the member with the shortest trainee period. Despite that, she ranked first in the final episode and joined the debut lineup of ILLIT, where she now serves as the group’s lead vocalist.
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Moka (ILLIT)
Moka joined HYBE LABELS JAPAN in 2020 and transferred to HYBE’s BELIFT LAB in 2022 to compete on R U Next? Her delicate emotional delivery helps refine and complete ILLIT’s sound.
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Minju (ILLIT)
Minju began her trainee journey at YG Entertainment in 2018, training for about three years before joining HYBE’s BELIFT LAB in 2021 to participate in the survival audition program R U Next? Finishing third, she earned her place in ILLIT’s debut lineup. She has said that singing makes her feel happiest and most natural, and she is recognized as an all-rounder with strong skills in vocals, visuals, dance and rap.
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Yunah (ILLIT)
Since debuting in April 2024 as the first girl group under ENHYPEN’s label BELIFT LAB, ILLIT have built their own musical world with clear and catchy concepts. Yunah began her trainee journey at Fantagio in late 2017. With years of training behind her, she now serves as the group’s lead vocalist and, as the eldest member, provides a steady and reliable presence.
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j-hope (BTS)
j-hope is BTS’ main dancer and rapper, as well as an accomplished solo artist. His 2018 mixtape Hope World peaked at No. 38 on the Billboard 200, marking the highest chart position ever achieved by a Korean solo artist at the time. In 2019, his single “Chicken Noodle Soup” featuring Becky G entered the Hot 100 at No. 81, making him the first BTS member to chart solo. In 2023, “On the Street (with J. Cole)” reached No. 60 on the Hot 100, followed by “Killin’ It Girl (feat. GloRilla),” which reached No. 40 in 2025. He also made history as the first Korean solo artist to headline Lollapalooza Chicago.
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NewJeans
A five-member girl group under ADOR (Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin and Hyein), NewJeans debuted in 2022. Their debut songs “Attention” and “Hype Boy” sparked a sensation with a fresh musical direction that broke from traditional K-pop formulas, paired with a nostalgic, retro-inspired visual. Following hits such as “Ditto,” “OMG,” “Super Shy” and “ETA,” they established themselves as a new icon of K-pop and the act was featured in Billboard’s 21 Under 21 list for two consecutive years. While they haven’t been able to carry out any musical activities since their last stage at ComplexCon in Hong Kong in March, the charts show that countless people around the world are still listening to NewJeans’ music. Since their legal dispute has now been resolved, with the five members returning to ADOR in November, we may look forward to NewJeans’ new music in 2026.
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Jisung (NCT DREAM)
Jisung joined SM Entertainment at just 12 years old, quickly gaining recognition for his exceptional dance skills. In recent years, he’s also been showcasing his warm and distinctive vocal tone, adding a new layer of color to NCT DREAM’s music. Known for his deep, expressive voice, Jisung especially stands out in tracks like “‘Bout You” from the group’s fifth album.
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Chenle (NCT DREAM)
Alongside Haechan and Renjun, Chenle is one of the key voices of NCT DREAM. Born in Shanghai, he showed his talent early on — releasing albums as a child even before joining the group. His stable high notes and naturally powerful vocals are his greatest strengths. Offstage, Chenle continues to shine through his personal passions, including basketball and cooking.
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Jaemin (NCT DREAM)
Alongside Jeno, Jaemin stands out in NCT DREAM with a strong presence onstage. Known for his distinctive voice and rap, he often takes on many of the group’s show-stealing parts in NCT DREAM’s songs.
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Jeno (NCT DREAM)
Jeno commands a unique stage presence, captivating audiences in concerts and live performances. He has also contributed as a featured artist on tracks by senior SM Entertainment artists, including KEY and Super Junior’s DONGHAE.
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Renjun (NCT DREAM)
“Thanks to the members and fans who waited for me, and most of all, to myself for overcoming and returning to the stage,” Renjun said during Dream Show 4 after a six-month hiatus due to health issues. His heartfelt words were met with overwhelming support from both his fellow members and the audience. For a closer look at Renjun’s delicate emotional expression and soft, airy vocals, be sure to check out his cover songs uploaded on NCT’s official channel.
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Haechan (NCT 127, NCT DREAM)
Along with Mark, Haechan successfully balances activities with both NCT 127 and NCT DREAM, showcasing a truly distinctive vocal tone. A lifelong fan of Michael Jackson, he has expressed his love for R&B from an early age. In September, he broadened his artistic range by releasing his first solo album, TASTE, which reflects his diverse musical tastes.
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Mark (NCT 127, NCT DREAM)
In 2024, NCT DREAM’s tour THE DREAM SHOW 3: DREAM( )SCAPE ranked eighth on Billboard’s Top K-Pop Tours ranking. Following the release of their fifth album Go Back to the Future in July, the group immediately embarked on their fourth tour, The Dream Show 4: Dream The Future too. Amid this busy schedule, Mark achieved a meaningful milestone by completing his first solo album. Released in 2025 April, The Firstfruit traces Mark’s journey as a K-pop artist through 13 tracks, spanning Toronto, New York, Vancouver and finally Seoul. The album’s title track, “1999,” reflects the year Mark was born, highlighting his personal story and focusing on his own experiences. A prolific songwriter, Mark had registered over 100 songs with the copyright association as of July. “1999” also garnered significant attention with a viral challenge in Korea, further cementing his presence as a solo artist.
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Saja Boys (Andrew Choi, Neckwav, Danny Chung, Kevin Woo & samUIL Lee)
Featured in KPop Demon Hunters, Saja Boys is a five-member fictional boy band composed of leader Jinu, Mystery, Baby, Abby and Romance. Portrayed as the dark counterparts to HUNTR/X, they achieved major real-world success with the film’s soundtrack songs. “Soda Pop” peaked at No. 3 on the Hot 100, while “Your Idol” reached No. 4. “Soda Pop” in particular went viral among real K-pop idols through dance-challenge trends, fueling the song’s worldwide popularity.
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IU
Singer, actress and producer IU has left an indelible mark on Korean pop history. Since debuting with her single “Lost Child” in 2008, she has built a distinctive artistic universe through self-written songs and emotionally detailed storytelling. IU is also well known for her live performance. In 2024, she finished at No. 6 on Billboard’s Top K-Pop Tours Boxscore chart — the only solo artist to make the top 10 that year.
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Leeseo (IVE)
The act’s youngest member, Leeseo was born in 2007. Discovered as a trainee while in elementary school and debuted in middle school. The former child model shortened her birth name Lee Hyun-seo to create her stage name. With a uniquely husky yet bright vocal tone, versatile performance and lively stage expressions, Leeseo radiates charisma well beyond her age.
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Liz (IVE)
Cast through an open audition during her third year of middle school, Liz debuted with IVE in 2021. Recognized for her clear yet powerful vocals, Liz serves as a key part of the group’s vocal line, and her grounded, easygoing personality has endeared her to fans.
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Jang Wonyoung (IVE)
Discovered by chance at her sister’s graduation ceremony, Jang Wonyoung ranked first on Produce 48 and debuted as the center of IZ*ONE before re-debuting with IVE in 2021. With her tall stature, elegant aura and unmistakable presence, she stands as the visual icon of the group. Active across endorsements, music and television, Wonyoung is admired for her composure and positive mindset — and is widely known for coining the phrase “Lucky Biki.”
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Rei (IVE)
The rapper and vocalist born Nakamoto Rei was the first Japanese artist under Starship Entertainment. Captivated by K-pop from a young age, Rei moved to Korea during middle school after passing an audition and debuted with IVE in 2021. Her lovely visuals, refined fashion sense and warm, expressive personality have made her a fan favorite both on and off stage.
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Gaeul (IVE)
Gaeul is the rapper and eldest member. Scouted at a middle-school dance competition, she spent the longest trainee period among the members, which shows in her stable skills and confidence onstage. Known for her sharp rap tone and charismatic performance, she contrasts that intensity with a calm and gentle personality offstage, often guiding her younger members.
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An Yujin (IVE)
An Yujin is the leader and vocalist of IVE. Inspired to become a singer after watching an awards show performance in middle school, she ranked fifth on Produce 48 (2018) and debuted with project group IZ*ONE before re-debuting with IVE in 2021. With her solid vocals, commanding stage presence and quick wit, she has earned a reputation as a true “all-rounder idol.”
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Jung Kook (BTS)
As the main vocalist and youngest member of BTS, Jung Kook is nicknamed the “Golden Maknae.” His 2023 solo single “Seven” debuted atop the Hot 100, Billboard Global 200 and Billboard Global 200 Excl. U.S. charts, marking a historic sweep for a K-pop solo artist. The song stayed on the Hot 100 for 15 weeks and became the fastest in Spotify history to reach 1 billion streams, earning a Guinness World Record.
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Hong Eunchae (LE SSERAFIM)
As the beloved youngest member of the group, Hong Eunchae brings bright, uplifting energy to LE SSERAFIM. From early on, she has showcased remarkable performance skills and confidence — enough to pull off solo stages in special performances.
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Kazuha (LE SSERAFIM)
It’s a well-known story that when Kazuha, then a student at the Dutch National Ballet Academy, began dreaming of becoming a K-pop idol during the COVID-19 pandemic, the agency sent vocal and dance trainers all the way to the Netherlands just for her. Although she debuted after a short trainee period, Kazuha has shown impressive growth across the board — in dance, vocals and beyond. Don’t miss her appearance on ‘=Lee Mujin Service, a live performance video series loved by many K-pop idols.
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Huh Yunjin (LE SSERAFIM)
Originally from New York, Huh Yunjin came to Korea to pursue her dream — even after being accepted to college in the U.S. Known for her powerful vocals, she also consistently releases self-written songs in digital single form. Her track “CRAZIER” was officially included in LE SSERAFIM’s fourth mini album. Yunjin has also collaborated with artists like j-hope and MAX, and in July this year, she became a member of the Recording Academy.
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Sakura (LE SSERAFIM)
Since starting her career in Japan in 2011 as a girl group member, Sakura has re-debuted twice — first with the project group IZ*ONE in 2018 and then with LE SSERAFIM in 2022. Her passion and dedication are truly second to none.
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Kim Chaewon (LE SSERAFIM)
Kim Chaewon first debuted through the survival audition program PRODUCE 48 as a member of IZ*ONE. After the group’s disbandment, she began a new chapter alongside Sakura with LE SSERAFIM. As the group’s leader, she’s known for her steady vocals and strong dance skills. Her distinct tone especially shines through the ballad covers she occasionally shares with fans. The group’s recent single “SPAGHETTI (feat. j-hope of BTS)” entered the Hot 100 for two weeks as of November, peaking at No. 50.
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NingNing (aespa)
Born in Harbin, in China, from a young age NingNing participated in numerous singing competitions, including China’s Got Talent season 2 in 2011, where she demonstrated her early performance prowess. As the member with the longest trainee period, she’s recognized as an all-rounder with strong skills in vocals, dance and stage control.
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Giselle (aespa)
Born in Seoul to a Japanese father and Korean mother, Giselle grew up in Tokyo and speaks Japanese, English and Korean fluently. Remarkably, she joined the debut lineup only three to four months after entering SM Entertainment. As aespa’s main rapper, she delivers charismatic performances with a distinctive tone and confident energy.
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Winter (aespa)
Winter, the main vocalist and lead dancer of aespa, was born Kim Min-jeong and gained attention upon debut in 2020 for her crystalline tone and refreshing visuals. Discovered during a dance festival in middle school, she now anchors the group’s vocal line with stability and emotional depth. Her precise diction and rhythmic phrasing on “Next Level” earned widespread praise. In 2024, co-wrote and composed her solo song “Spark,” showcasing her lyrical sensitivity and songwriting talent.
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Karina (aespa)
Before her debut, Karina, the leader of aespa, appeared in SHINee Taemin’s “WANT” music video and stage performances in 2019, gaining early attention. Recognized as an all-rounder skilled in vocals, rap and dance, she showcased her individuality through solo stages such as “Up,” highlighting her lyrical participation and interpretive performance. Admired for her striking visuals and statuesque presence, she’s often called the “4th-generation visual leader” and serves as an ambassador for various global luxury brands.
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HUNTR/X (EJAE, Audrey Nuna & REI AMI)
The rookie group topped the Hot 100 for eight weeks with their first chart entry: the breakout hit “Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters. A fictional three-member girl group from the hit Netflix animated movie, each character’s vocals were brought to life by talented artists: EJAE as RUMI, Audrey Nuna as MIRA, and Rei Ami as ZOEY, adding depth and brilliance to the soundtrack. When “Golden” first reached No. 1 on the Hot 100 chart dated August 16, it marked the ninth K-pop–related song ever to top the chart — and the first by a female-vocal act. Remarkably, EJAE recently signed an exclusive contract with major U.S. agency WME, showing how KPop Demon Hunters is influencing the real-life music careers of its cast.
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Jongho (ATEEZ)
Jongho is renowned for his powerful and unmatched vocals. He contributed to ATEEZ’s image as a skilled powerhouse group through appearances on various Korean music variety shows and the competition show ‘KINGDOM: LEGENDARY WAR’ in 2021, where they competed alongside groups like Stray Kids and The Boyz.
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Wooyoung (ATEEZ)
Wooyoung stands out for his dedication to constantly refining both his looks and skills. He demonstrated solid live performance abilities during ATEEZ’s 2024 Coachella set and recently released his solo track “Sagittarius.”
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Mingi (ATEEZ)
Mingi stands out as one of ATEEZ’s rappers, alongside Hongjoong. Beginning with his 2024 solo track “Tunnel,” which compared feelings of emptiness to a tunnel, he has showcased his talent in songwriting and composition through a series called Desire Project. Recently, he compiled these works into his first EP, FIX OFF: Desire Project 1, further highlighting his creative abilities.
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San (ATEEZ)
San stands out across multiple fields. He actively participated in choreography for a performance video inspired by Imagine Dragons’ “WARRIOR,” demonstrating the multifaceted artistry unique to K-pop performers. Despite his strong stage presence, San also reveals a sensitive side. With member Jongho, he has performed emotional covers such as IU’s “Dear Name” and Lee Hi’s “Breathe.”
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Yeosang (ATEEZ)
Yeosang is known for his ability to pull off high-concept performances. Recently, he showcased his performance skills through his solo stage “Legacy.”
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Yunho (ATEEZ)
While all ATEEZ members are known for their stable vocal skills, Yunho stands out for his exceptional dance abilities. Lately, he has been expanding his range — not only performing cover songs but also contributing to OSTs and lending his vocals to film projects.
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Seonghwa (ATEEZ)
Seonghwa, described by fellow member Hongjoong as the one most open to challenges and experimentation, pursues a wide range of styles and performances. His ability to embody different concepts allows him to make a strong impression during concerts and special stages. He has also naturally pulled off genderless concepts in performances such as a cover of LISA’s “MONEY” and Kylie Minogue’s “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” with the members.
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Hongjoong (ATEEZ)
ATEEZ has shown balanced growth in both album releases and tour performances. The Golden Hour era, launched in May 2024 and completed as a three-part trilogy, all entered the Billboard 200 at high positions. Tracks from Golden Hour: Part 3, released in June 2025 — “In Your Fantasy” and “Lemon Drop” — landed at Nos. 68 and 69 on the Billboard Hot 100.
As the group’s leader, Hongjoong is often called Captain. He works closely with ATEEZ’s in-house producer team, Eden-ary, to oversee the group’s entire music production. Beyond this, he also produces songs for the team Xikers as well as the members’ solo tracks, exemplifying his leadership. Offstage, he has made a mark in the fashion world, attending shows for Balmain and Jacquemus.
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Jimin (BTS)
Jimin is BTS’ main dancer and lead vocalist trained in contemporary dance, celebrated for expressive choreography and emotive vocals. In 2023, he became the first Korean soloist to top the Hot 100 with “Like Crazy,” also charting across Billboard’s three major rankings: Hot 100, Billboard 200, and Artist 100. His latest solo album Muse was released in July 2024, but the title track “Who” has still charted on the marking in Billboard Global 200 chart as of November.
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Ni-Ki (ENHYPEN)
Ni-Ki, the youngest member and the only Japanese member of ENHYPEN, has been dancing since a very young age. Known for his exceptional dance skills, he shared a special stage in 2024 at a Korean year-end awards show with his childhood role model, SHINee’s Taemin. While his low-pitched voice is one of his charms, he’s been showing impressive growth as a vocalist too.
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Sunoo (ENHYPEN)
Sunoo is a member who has shown consistent growth. With a clear and pure tone distinct from Heeseung, he adds a unique charm to the group’s songs. His signature emotion can be felt in tracks like “XO (Only If You Say Yes)” and “Bills.” Recently, he has also explored new styles, showing a visually refreshed side.
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SungHoon (ENHYPEN)
SungHoon is the member who best embodies ENHYPEN’s distinct “Vampire” concepts visually. As a child, he was a well-known figure skater, and he spent his early years focusing on athletics alongside leader Jungwon, who was a taekwondo athlete. Recently, he also proved his personal artistic sensibility by covering “Odoriko” by the Japanese band Vaundy.
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Jake (ENHYPEN)
Jake, hailing from Australia, played a key role in ENHYPEN gaining global attention when his smooth vocals opened the viral 2022 TikTok hit “Polaroid Love.” Despite a brief trainee period of less than a year during his appearance on I-LAND, he demonstrated rapid growth and proved his potential. Fans can also experience Jake’s expressive sensibility through his covers of Harry Styles’ “Watermelon Sugar” and Bazzi’s “I Don’t Think I’m Okay.”
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Jay (ENHYPEN)
Jay spent his childhood in Seattle and developed a deep understanding and passion for American rock and band music. He also consistently practices guitar, recently performing Bon Jovi’s “Always” on a Gibson guitar. Within the group, Jay is known as the team’s mood maker.
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Heeseung (ENHYPEN)
Heeseung, the eldest member of ENHYPEN, is known for his exceptional and stable vocals as well as his keen musical ear. In 2024, he performed The Weeknd’s “Can’t Feel My Face” as a solo during a music show in Madrid, and he revealed that he began practicing earlier than the other members to prepare for ENHYPEN’s successful 2025 Coachella stage, demonstrating his responsibility as the team’s vocalist. Heeseung is also heavily involved in recording direction, including the rap parts of “Bite Me,” and has participated in the fan song “Highway 1009.”
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Jungwon (ENHYPEN)
Formed through Mnet and BigHit Entertainment (now HYBE)’s joint survival program I-LAND, ENHYPEN quickly built a global fanbase following their debut in 2020. By 2024, the group had performed 36 shows, ranking second on Billboard Boxscore’s Top K-Pop Tours of the Year, highlighting their active touring schedule.
Born in 2004, Jungwon is ENHYPEN’s leader and known for active communication with fans, standing out even among K-pop artists. Under his leadership, the albums Romance: Untold (July 2024) and Desire: Unleash (June 2025) consecutively entered the Billboard 200. Famous for his light and agile dance style, Jungwon recently showcased growth as a vocalist with his cover of Shawn Mendes and Justin Bieber’s “Monster” in February.
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JENNIE (BLACKPINK)
Debuting with BLACKPINK in 2016 and becoming the group’s first soloist with “Solo” (2018), Jennie scored the first song by a K-pop solo artist to surpass 300 million Spotify streams. After founding her own label OA, she partnered with Columbia Records and released her first full-length album Ruby in March. The album was later named one of Billboard staff’s The 50 Best Albums of 2025 (So Far).
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I.N (Stray Kids)
The youngest member of Stray Kids, I.N has shown steady growth in both vocals and dance. Known for his naturally high-pitched voice, his clear tone is especially highlighted in the solo performance video for “HALLUCINATION.”
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Seungmin (Stray Kids)
As Stray Kids’ main vocalist, Seungmin continues to shine with his strong and emotive singing. A digital single Mixtape: dominATE, which is released to celebrate the group’s seventh anniversary, Seungmin featured the track “CINEMA” with Lee Know, showcasing his songwriting and composing abilities.
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Felix (Stray Kids)
Felix’s naturally deep and rich voice adds a unique charm to every Stray Kids track. With his distinctive appeal and friendly demeanor, he is working with global fashion houses like Louis Vuitton as well as Korean brands such as Gentle Monster and HERA. Onstage, he strives for perfection, and offstage, he takes on social responsibility with equal dedication. Felix even spent his vacation volunteering with UNICEF in Laos, a remarkable commitment that sets him apart.
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Han (Stray Kids)
Han spent his childhood in Malaysia. As a member of 3RACHA, while Bang Chan is known for creating Stray Kids’ most signature tracks, the songs led by Han often feature lyrical storytelling combined with emotional depth, as seen in tracks like “Volcano” and “MESS.” He’s not just a rapper — his ability to hit high notes makes him a versatile performer.
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HyunJin (Stray Kids)
Fueled by passion for the stage and consistent effort, Hyunjin is known for his outstanding performance skills. He comfortably handles not just dance, but also vocals and rap. One of his greatest strengths is that he isn’t afraid of expressing his emotions, and he’s very open to feedback. His steady creative output, including self-written tracks showcased through SKZ-RECORD and paintings, serves as a testament to his dedication and growth.
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ChangBin (Stray Kids)
ChangBin’s precise delivery and powerful rapping have become a signature sound of Stray Kids’ songs. As a member of 3RACHA alongside Bang Chan and Han, he is deeply involved in the group’s music production too.
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Lee Know (Stray Kids)
Even before his debut, Lee Know showcased exceptional dance skills, having worked as a professional backup dancer. Since debut, his vocal growth — including hitting high notes — has been equally impressive. His playful and bright charm shines in tracks like “Youth” from HOP (2024), which featured solo songs from all members. Recently, he was also chosen as an ambassador for Gucci.
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BangChan (Stray Kids)
Since debuting in 2018, Bang Chan has been at the center of Stray Kids’ growing global influence. The group won Billboard Music Awards for two consecutive years in 2023 and 2024, and their recent tracks — including “Ceremony,” “Chk Chk Boom” and the team’s first official English single “Lose My Breath (Feat. Charlie Puth)” — all entered the Hot 100. Their fourth album Karma, released in August, marked a major milestone: Stray Kids achieved seven consecutive No. 1s on the Billboard 200. Originally from Australia, Bang Chan trained for nearly eight years before debuting and serves as both the group’s leader and a key creative force in 3RACHA, contributing heavily to the team’s music production. Fans can notice his deep involvement in the group’s music through behind-the-scenes recordings and the podcast-style album feature video [INTRO “KARMA”]. Offstage, he is also recognized as a FENDI ambassador.
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Dahyun (TWICE)
Discovered after a viral “Eagle Dance” video filmed at church during middle school, Dahyun joined JYP and debuted through SIXTEEN. Known for her expressive face, quick wit and bright humor, she energizes TWICE’s stages. She has also explored acting and piano performances, and since Feel Special (2019), she has consistently contributed as a lyricist. Her solo track “Chess” will be featured on the 10th-anniversary album.
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Mina (TWICE)
The act’s sub-vocalist from Kobe, Japan, Mina is a former ballet student who was scouted by JYP while shopping with her mother. Her graceful demeanor and refined stage presence earned her the nickname “Black Swan.” Calm yet captivating, she brings an understated depth to TWICE’s music. Her solo song “STONE COLD” will appear on the 10th-anniversary album.
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Sana (TWICE)
One of TWICE’s Japanese members, Sana was born in Osaka and joined JYP through a 2009 public audition and became known for her bright personality and charming speech. Her “shy shy shy” line from the 2016 hit “CHEER UP” became a viral pop-culture moment. She is also a member of MISAMO and has expanded into hosting and variety work. Her solo track “DECAFFEINATED” is featured on the 10th-anniversary album.
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Momo (TWICE)
Momo is TWICE’s main dancer, celebrated for her precision, flexibility and power. Born in Kyoto, Japan, she began dancing at age 3 and joined JYP Entertainment after auditioning with her sister. Although eliminated during SIXTEEN, she was reinstated by J.Y. Park and ultimately debuted with TWICE.
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Tzuyu (TWICE)
The youngest member, born in Tainan, Taiwan, Tzuyu’s striking visuals drew attention immediately after debut. In September 2024, she released her first mini album abouTZU, debuting at No. 19 on the Billboard 200.
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Jihyo (TWICE)
Jihyo is TWICE’s leader and powerhouse vocalist. Renowned for her strong voice and warm leadership, she keeps the team musically grounded. She co-wrote “Trouble” from the mini album Between 1 & 2 and made her solo debut in 2023 with ZONE, which peaked at No. 14 on the Billboard 200. Alongside Jeongyeon and Chaeyoung, she performed “TAKEDOWN (JEONGYEON, JIHYO, CHAEYOUNG)” for the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack.
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JEONGYEON (TWICE)
Known for her solid vocals and rich lower tone, JEONGYEON brings musical balance to TWICE’s sound. After five years of training at JYP Entertainment, she debuted through the 2015 survival show SIXTEEN. With her soft voice and emotional expressiveness, she serves as the group’s sentimental core.
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Chaeyoung (TWICE)
The fourth TWICE member to debut solo, Chaeyoung released her first full-length album Lil Fantasy Vol. 1 in September, reaching No. 38 on the Billboard 200. She co-wrote and composed every track. She also took part in the’ KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack song “TAKEDOWN (JEONGYEON, JIHYO, CHAEYOUNG),” which peaked at No. 50 on the Hot 100.
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Nayeon (TWICE)
Nayeon is the eldest member of TWICE. After five years of training at JYP Entertainment, she was selected as a final debut member through the 2015 survival show SIXTEEN. With her bright personality and energetic stage presence, she leads the group’s mood both on and off stage. In 2022, she released her debut EP IM NAYEON, which peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard 200 — making her the first Korean solo artist ever to enter the chart’s top 10.
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Jin (BTS)
Jin’s second mini album Echo, released in May, saw its title track “Don’t Say You Love Me” enter the Hot 100 at No. 90. This marks Jin’s third appearance on the chart. Previously, he made the list with his first solo single “The Astronaut” (No. 51) in 2022 and the title track “Running Wild” from his first solo album Happy (No. 53) in 2024. His first solo concert tour, #RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR, which spanned nine cities across Asia, the United States, and Europe, was also a massive success. Jin surprised fans by announcing an encore concert in Korea in October.
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Huinengkai (TOMORROW X TOGETHER)
Huinengkai, who formed his own school band during middle school, has a deep understanding of instruments, playing guitar, piano and even drums. Alongside Beomgyu, who also plays guitar, he approaches TXT’s music with a strong instrumental perspective. Known for his stable high notes and vocal power, Hueningkai gained widespread attention in 2024 with his cover of the Japanese hit “Betelgeuse,” which went viral.
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Taehyun (TOMORROW X TOGETHER)
Taehyun is best known for his stable vocal skills, but fellow member HueningKai notes that he was the second-best dancer during their trainee days, right after Yeonjun. In TXT’s recording behind-the-scenes clips, he stands out for his quick grasp of songs.
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Beomgyu (TOMORROW X TOGETHER)
Beomgyu has two distinguished sides. He combines the bright personality fans see on variety shows with a delicate musical sensibility. While Taehyun and HueningKai are well known for their powerful high notes, Beomgyu possesses his own distinctive and captivating vocal tone. This can be heard in TXT’s 2024 tracks with rock elements, such as “Skipping Stones” and “Quarter Life,” as well as in his self-composed songs “Panic” and the recent emotional rock ballad “Take My Half.”
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SOOBIN (TOMORROW X TOGETHER)
As the leader of TOMORROW X TOGETHER, Soobin stands out in the K-pop scene for his deep affection and understanding of the industry. Beyond being a well-known fanboy of the iconic group KARA, he connects with fans through live sessions of up to five hours, sharing his own K-pop playlists and showing respect and enjoyment for the scene he’s part of. Soobin also shines in performance, as seen on the Afrobeat-inspired stage of “The Killa (I Belong to You)” with Yeonjun, highlighting a fresh side of his artistry.
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Yeonjun (TOMORROW X TOGETHER)
Since the release of minisode 3: TOMORROW in April 2024, followed by The Star Chapter: Sanctuary and The Star Chapter: Together, which all entered the Billboard 200 at high positions, TOMORROW X TOGETHER also completed their first-ever European tour in 2025.
Yeonjun, who earned the nickname “Legendary Trainee” for consistently ranking first during his trainee days, and “4th Generation It Boy” for his fashion style, proves that these titles are no exaggeration onstage. Beyond his renowned performance skills, he is a standout member for his rap and impressive vocal power, highlighted by his 2024 solo mixtape GGUM. He has earned recognition at various domestic and international awards, including the iHeartRadio Music Awards. Yeonjun’s full-scale solo activities NO LABELS :PART 01 embarked this November.
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Rosé (BLACKPINK)
Born in New Zealand and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Rosé joined YG Entertainment after winning first place at its 2012 global audition in Sydney (1 out of 700). She debuted in 2016 with BLACKPINK and launched her solo career with R (2021), featuring “On the Ground” and “Gone.” In December 2024, Rosé released her full-length album Rosie, featuring 12 tracks, which debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. The album’s pre-release single “APT.” — a collaboration with Bruno Mars — stayed on the Hot 100 for around 45 weeks, remaining on the chart through September this year. She scored three nominations at the 2026 Grammy Awards, including song and record of the year for “APT.”
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Wonwoo (SEVENTEEN)
As a member of SEVENTEEN’s hip-hop team, Wonwoo is known for his deep, distinctive voice that sets him apart from the other members. He also shows a warm and delicate sensibility, as heard in his covers of IU’s “Knee,” HYUKOH’s “TOMBOY,” his solo track “99.9%” and the song “GOGAE” released after his military enlistment. He has actively contributed to music, collaborating on singles with members Mingyu (2021) and Jeonghan (2024). Wonwoo enlisted in April 2025, following Jeonghan, becoming the second SEVENTEEN member to enter the military, and is scheduled to be discharged in January 2026.
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Jeonghan (SEVENTEEN)
Jeonghan, a member of SEVENTEEN’s vocal team and part of the group’s 1995-born “older” line alongside S.Coups and Joshua, enlisted in September 2024, becoming the first member of the group. Despite his absence, his consistent love for the team and fans makes his absence hardly noticeable. During SEVENTEEN’s newly launched [NEW_] tour, Jeonghan surprised fans with a special gift he personally made. Even after enlistment, he continues to engage in music collaborating with Japanese artists such as Omoinotake and performing cover songs.
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Dino (SEVENTEEN)
Dino, the youngest member of SEVENTEEN, joined the group as a trainee at the age of 13. Influenced by his father, a dance instructor, he learned various dance styles from an early age and, inspired by Michael Jackson’s videos, pursued his dream of becoming a singer.
Standing out in the Performance Team, Dino is a member who grows steadily and endlessly. Last year, he released his solo track “Wait”, showcasing not only his groovy dance style but also his vocal abilities that perfectly complement his performances.
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Vernon (SEVENTEEN)
Born in New York to a Korean father and a French-American mother, Vernon moved to Korea at the age of 5. He was street-cast in middle school, which led him to become a trainee. Known for his distinct personal music style, Vernon, alongside Woozi, joined the Recording Academy this year. As a solo artist, he leans toward pop-punk and rock genres. Tracks like “Blackeye” and “Shining Star” highlight his cool vibes. Recently, he even took the stage holding his father’s guitar during a concert performance.
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Seungkwan (SEVENTEEN)
Seungkwan is SEVENTEEN’s main vocalist. A well-known fan of Wonder Girls, he is both a performer and a K-pop enthusiast with a deep understanding of the scene, and he helped raise the group’s public acknowledgement early in their career through appearances on variety shows. While he shows a bright and cheerful side as a member of BSS, his vocals reveal a more emotional and sensitive dimension. Known for his high notes and clear tone, Seungkwan often covers songs by female vocalists such as Taeyeon and IU. Recently, he showcased his deepened artistry by performing his solo track “Raindrops” on the piano during the latest concert.
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The8 (SEVENTEEN)
Talented in dance from childhood, The8 attended an art high school in Beijing before being cast. His stage name The8 symbolizes the number eight, which is considered lucky in China. Onstage, he stands out with a distinctive presence. Fans can catch his delicate artistic side in solo tracks like “Orbit” and “Star Crossing Night (feat. GALI).”
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DK (SEVENTEEN)
DK, SEVENTEEN’s main vocalist and leader of the BSS unit, was inspired to pursue singing in high school after watching the Korean rock band YB. Interestingly, he made his debut as a musical actor in 2019 with Artus-Excalibur. Known for his solid vocal skills, DK frequently participates in soundtracks and is also one of the members who performs the most cover songs, showcasing his versatile voice.
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Mingyu (SEVENTEEN)
Street-cast while walking home from middle school, Mingyu trained for almost four years. Starting with collaborations with brands like Louis Vuitton and Cartier, he quickly made his mark in the fashion scene among SEVENTEEN members. He currently serves as an ambassador for CK and Dior. As part of the hip-hop team, Mingyu previously released the single “Bittersweet (feat. Lee-Hi)” with Wonwoo in 2021. This year, he teamed up with S.Coups to form the unit CxM, taking his artistry to the next level. Their first EP, HYPE VIBES, reached No. 71 on the Billboard 200.
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Woozi (SEVENTEEN)
SEVENTEEN’s main producer and leader of the vocal team, it’s no exaggeration to say that most of the group’s hit songs were created by Woozi. As of April 2025, he had 228 works registered with the Korea Music Copyright Association and joined the Recording Academy in July. Beyond his role as a producer, Woozi is also known for his impressive vocal tone and high notes. He completed his HxW activities in August before enlisting in the military in September.
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Hoshi (SEVENTEEN)
Hoshi is the leader of SEVENTEEN’s performance team, deeply involved in the group’s choreography. He also contributes to SEVENTEEN’s image as a self-producing idol group alongside producer Woozi. He showcases choreography that perfectly fits his dance style in solo tracks like “Spider” and “Damage (HOSHI Solo) (feat. Timbaland).” While known for his impressive performance skills, Hoshi also possesses vocal abilities, which can be heard on solo tracks such as “Stay” and “I Want You Back.” Beyond his work with the BSS unit, Hoshi released new album BEAM and held a fan concert tour with Woozi under the unit HxW this year. Leading up to his enlistment in September, Hoshi shows his passion for music until the very end.
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Jun (SEVENTEEN)
Jun, along with The8, is one of SEVENTEEN’s Chinese members. As a member of the performance team, he only began dancing after becoming a trainee, but with his natural physique, martial arts training and relentless practice, he quickly established himself with powerful dance lines. Originally a child actor, Jun continues his acting career. This August, the Chinese film The Shadow’s Edge, starring Jun, drew 6.3 million viewers in just two days in China, marking a major box-office success. To check his conceptual and intense artistry, don’t forget to watch his solo performance tracks like “Limbo” and “Psycho.”
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Joshua (SEVENTEEN)
Joshua, born in Los Angeles, is known for his sweet vocal tone and strong singing ability, and he has actively participated in collaborative projects with international musicians. Alongside fellow vocal team member DK, he contributed to Pink Sweat$’ “17 (feat. Joshua and DK of SEVENTEEN)” and the remix of New Kids on the Block’s “Dirty Dancing (feat. Joshua, DK & Dino of SEVENTEEN).” In August, Joshua teamed up with singer/songwriter Dylan Matthew to release “Love Is Gone (Acoustic) (with JOSHUA of SEVENTEEN & Dylan Matthew).”
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S.COUPS (SEVENTEEN)
Celebrating their 10th anniversary in 2025, SEVENTEEN’s recent activities have been remarkable. The group released three albums, and their RIGHT HERE tour held 24 shows, selling 865,000 tickets and setting a record as one of Billboard’s Top K-Pop Tours of 2024. As of September, four of the 13 members have enlisted in the military. The remaining nine members embarked on their NEW_ tour in September.
S.COUPS, as the group’s overall leader, plays a pivotal role in guiding SEVENTEEN. 2025 was a year that highlighted S.COUPS’ presence onstage. Through the unit CxM launched with member Mingyu in September., S.COUPS showcased a wide range of musical versatility.
In an interview with Billboard Korea, he expressed, “I believe that these new challenges as a unit will also contribute to the growth of SEVENTEEN as a team,” reflecting his enduring ambition. S.COUPS also made his Met Gala debut in 2025, marking him as the SEVENTEEN member who stood out most prominently this year.

























