New Generation of K-Pop Rises: Breakthroughs by New Groups Like KickFlip, Hearts2Hearts, and ALLDAY PROJECT in 2025

The K-pop market gained momentum in 2025 thanks to the performances of several new groups. Groups such as KickFlip, Hearts2Hearts, KiiiKiii, Close Your Eyes, CORTIS, and ALLDAY PROJECT attracted widespread attention from the beginning of the year to the end, demonstrating K-pop’s ongoing evolution and growth. KickFlip is a seven-member boy group under JYP Entertainment whose team name is derived from skateboarding skills, reflecting their ambition to “turn the world upside down in new ways.” The Leader, Gyu-hun, spent nine years as a Trainee starting at age 12, and each member brings a unique background to the group. KickFlip released three EPs over approximately four months starting in January of this year, characterized by direct messaging and rock guitar sounds. They proved the potential of the new generation by winning the Best New Artist award at the 2025 Asia Artist Awards (AAA). Hearts2Hearts, under SM Entertainment, is an eight-member girl group that made its Debut four years and three months after aespa. It features an international lineup including Stella, who holds dual Canadian citizenship, and Carmen, who comes from Bali, Indonesia. Just as the group name means “from heart to heart,” they aim to connect with global fans through music that conveys sincere messages. Debuted at the end of February, they continued aespa’s legacy with the bass synth and cyberpunk vocal style in their debut song “The Chase,” while differentiating themselves through music and music videos focused on the Gen Z audience. To date, they have released three singles and one EP. KiiiKiii, from Starship Entertainment, takes its team name from the sound of laughter, pursuing harmony that respects individuality within a relaxed atmosphere. With Kiya, born in 2010, handling vocals and rap, KiiiKiii built a strong fanbase early on through songs like “Debut Song,” “I Do Me,” and “DANCING ALONE.” Their style incorporates elements of aespa and NewJeans while emphasizing retro aesthetics and natural beauty, also carrying the genetic traits of their senior group IVE. Close Your Eyes, part of Uncore, is a boy band formed through the audition program “PROJECT 7.” In line with their group philosophy of delivering “convincing music even when eyes are closed,” they are known for music and performances that prioritize emotion and restraint over intensity. Since their Debut in April, they have released three EPs, with their debut EP having a volume comparable to that of a full studio album. They pursue a concept centered on members coming together after being invited to a guesthouse and have drawn attention for their literary approach that values Korean lyrics. ALLDAY PROJECT elevated its status by winning the Best New Wave Singer award at the 2025 Asia Artist Awards (AAA). The performances of these various new groups show that K-pop continues to evolve and develop, meeting the growing global demand as it expands beyond domestic markets.