Fifth-generation K-pop girl groups are making waves as they gear up for their debuts, with BabyMonster from YG Entertainment and ILLIT from HYBE’s Belift Lab garnering significant attention. Meticulously crafted by major agencies, both groups raise high expectations among global K-pop fans even before their official launches.
BabyMonster, YG Entertainment’s rookie girl group launched seven years after Blackpink, officially debuted last November with the track “BATTER UP.” The multinational group comprises three members from South Korea (Ahyeon, Haram, Rora), two from Thailand (Pharita, Chiquita), and two from Japan (Ruka, Asa). They have been praised as an “all-rounder” group with talents in vocals, rap, and dance.
Since their debut, BabyMonster have showcased their versatility across genres with the hip-hop-infused “BATTER UP” and the pop ballad “Stuck In The Middle,” underscoring their rapidly growing global popularity by achieving notable success on global charts and YouTube as rookies.
Primarily focusing on music releases so far, the rookie septet is poised for a full-group comeback with their first mini-album, “BABYMONS7ER,” on April 1, marking the return of member Ahyeon, who had been absent from debut activities due to health reasons.
BabyMonster plan to engage in various activities with the album, including music broadcasts and fan meetings. In August, they are slated to make their debut appearance at Japan’s premier music festival, “Summer Sonic 2024,” signaling their expansion to global stages.
The seven-member full group comeback and promise of active promotions mark the true beginning of BabyMonster’s journey. Following in Blackpink’s footsteps, there is high anticipation to see if they will emerge as a global girl group commanding worldwide attention.
ILLIT, referred to as “HYBE’s youngest daughter,” have garnered attention even before their debut. The girl group was formed through JTBC’s audition program “R U NEXT?” last year and consists of Yuna, Minju, Moka, Wonhee, and Iroha.
Through the program, the quintet demonstrated their proficiency in various music genres, earning acclaim for their vocal, rap, and dance skills, and have been dubbed an “all-visual center” group.
Set to debut with their mini-album “SUPER REAL ME” on March 25, ILLIT have the full support of HYBE chairman Bang Si-hyuk, who has produced all the tracks.
The five girls have already proven their global appeal by participating in a fashion week event in Paris, France, becoming the first K-pop act to do so even before their debut.
