These boy bands have defined K-Pop. Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for every K-Pop generation’s biggest and brightest groups who’ve won over both our hearts and bank accounts.
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00:00 [Music]
00:07 Welcome to Ms. Mojo, and today we're counting down our picks for every K-Pop generation's
00:14 biggest and brightest groups who've won over both our hearts and bank accounts.
00:19 [Music]
00:28 Number 20. Astro. You may have seen Astro in 2023 headlines due to the sudden and tragic
00:35 passing of 25-year-old member Moonbin. While the band's long-term future is uncertain following
00:42 the devastating loss, Moonbin and his bandmates built an incredible legacy together.
00:47 [Music]
00:52 From the start, the group's online popularity led to them performing around South Korea
00:58 before they'd even officially debuted. They went on to climb the ranks,
01:02 releasing popular hits that earned them Billboard success and recognition.
01:06 [Music]
01:12 On top of a standout dance line, member Yunwoo is also an extremely popular public figure and
01:19 actor in Korea. While many would call the band underrated, their music and performances speak
01:25 for themselves. [Music]
01:33 Number 19. H.O.T.
01:35 [Music]
01:42 Today, idol groups rule the pop music scene, but it wasn't always that way. H.O.T. was brought
01:49 together by SM Entertainment's Lee Soo-man in 1996, and their goal was to reach a brand new
01:56 audience - teenagers. As the band's music and style caught on, their younger audience developed
02:02 the dedicated fan culture that has become the backbone of K-pop today.
02:06 [Music]
02:13 H.O.T. were also one of the first Korean acts to capitalize on their popularity among overseas
02:20 fans. Though they disbanded in 2001, they have since notably performed a reunion concert,
02:26 and the members have continued their careers in various areas of entertainment.
02:30 [Music]
02:36 Number 18. N-Hypen.
02:38 [Music]
02:46 From the beginning, this band had big shoes to fill. Not only were they a brand new boy group
02:52 debuting under HYBE, but they were also formed on a reality show that aimed to create the perfect
02:58 K-pop act. However, rather than fold under the pressure of a pandemic debut, N-Hypen went on
03:04 to win multiple Rookie of the Year awards. [Music]
03:14 As you may have guessed, the hyphen in their name refers to their desire to create connection,
03:20 and they've done so with both international members and fans. Whether it's both of their
03:25 albums being hits or getting rid of positions due to their members' well-rounded talents,
03:30 this group truly stands out from the crowd.
03:32 [Music]
03:39 Number 17. 2PM.
03:42 When the 11-man group 1DAY was split in two, 2PM was born. In their very first music video,
03:49 they attracted attention with their crazy dance skills. Sure, boy bands are generally known for
03:54 impressive dancing, but 2PM does acrobatics to boot. They also have a big presence in television,
04:01 since they hosted NBC's Idol show and starred in their own reality show, Wild Bunny. As if that
04:07 wasn't enough, they're quite the trendsetters, and their image created an entire "jimjongdool,"
04:14 or "beast" phenomenon in their home country. [Music]
04:22 We certainly missed them during their hiatus,
04:25 but we were beyond thrilled to see them back in action in 2021.
04:29 [Music]
04:35 Number 16. GOT7.
04:38 Back in 2014, this JYP boy band quite literally flipped their way into K-pop fans' hearts,
04:44 and it wasn't long before they were hurtling to the top of the charts.
04:48 [Music]
04:53 While their style evolved, their popularity hasn't waned. Thanks to catchy hits,
04:58 international members, and endless talent, GOT7 is extremely popular both in Asia and all around
05:05 the globe. [Music]
05:11 They're one of those boy bands whose members all have significant followings outside of the group.
05:17 Though they split from JYP in 2021 and have been working on their solo ventures,
05:22 they did treat us to an EP in 2022. Plus, they've assured fans that something big is coming in the
05:28 near future. [Music]
05:35 Number 15. Stray Kids.
05:38 You can't talk about K-pop's international impact without bringing up this young group,
05:43 since they took the world by storm. [Music]
05:51 Brought together by a reality show, the JYP band officially debuted in 2018 and quickly earned
05:58 multiple awards for new and rising artists. Known for writing and producing their own songs,
06:04 an amazing rap line, and their unique sound, the group is unafraid to take up space with
06:09 their edgy style. [Music]
06:17 A true viral phenomenon, they've risen to fame alongside a loyal fanbase that has earned them
06:23 millions of views and streams. Just like their lyrics say, Stray Kids is well on its way to
06:29 world domination. [Music]
06:37 Number 14. Shin-La.
06:39 These first-generation trailblazers have earned the title as the longest-running K-pop group.
06:44 [Music]
06:51 Since their debut in 1998, they've released countless albums and EPs,
06:56 as well as more than 30 singles, not including the members' solo music.
07:00 While their success started at SM, they later created their own company to promote the band,
07:05 to great effect. Part of the reason they've maintained their popularity is that they're
07:10 unafraid of change. [Music]
07:18 Their evolving style has made each comeback feel fresh and new. After paving the way and
07:23 staying the course, it's no surprise that the band's become so legendary.
07:28 [Music]
07:35 Number 13. ATEEZ.
07:38 You could consider this group a dark horse in the K-pop scene, but ATEEZ have made their mark
07:43 with their incredible performance ability and a host of catchy hits. [Music]
07:53 Since their 2018 debut, the group's been breaking down walls, rising to the top without big company
07:59 privilege. Since their "KQ Fellas" dance video to their iconic "Mamas" performance, they've
08:05 continued to capture the world's attention. [Music]
08:14 Their unique pirate concept is brought to life by the members' incredible stage presence and
08:19 acting abilities. And as their momentum has grown, so has their recognition. With a slew
08:24 of awards and multiple world tours under their belt, ATEEZ has truly become a global sensation.
08:30 [Music]
08:36 Number 12. TOMORROW X TOGETHER.
08:39 This band broke into the music scene with a fresh new style. With few members and a fun
08:45 and upbeat concept, the members' talent was immediately obvious. [Music]
08:55 The first boy band to debut under big hits since K-pop giants BTS, they had a lot to live up to.
09:02 And with a record-setting debut album, it's safe to say they delivered. [Music]
09:13 Since then, they've been dubbed an "it group," consistently topped charts, and became the first
09:19 headlined Lollapalooza, a first for K-pop bands. They've also fueled their international popularity
09:25 with a series of collabs with everyone from the Jonas Brothers to Ian Dior and Anitta.
09:31 After their recent success at the VMAs, it's clear this band's not going anywhere.
09:36 [Music]
09:43 Number 11. SUPER JUNIOR.
09:45 [Music]
09:53 Few K-pop bands have been as influential as this super group. The second-generation
09:58 phenomenon are considered one of the main drivers of the Hallyu wave,
10:02 but their success isn't just history. Over the years, the band has raked in achievements and
10:08 continued to churn out hits, both as a full ensemble and through a series of successful subgroups.
10:13 [Music]
10:21 To say SUPER JUNIOR is decorated is an understatement, and they've been touring
10:25 and performing consistently over the years as well. Whether it's their iconic hit "Sorry Sorry,"
10:31 or their newer single "Mango," it looks like this boy band will always have a place at the top of K-pop.
10:37 [Music]
10:43 Number 10. B.A.P.
10:45 To get straight to the heart of B.A.P., all we have to do is explain their name.
10:49 Best. Absolute. Perfect.
10:51 [Music]
10:56 After its formation in 2012, the group rejected the polished image typical of K-pop in favor of
11:02 being rough and tumble bad boys. This translated into their music, which is edgy and full of attitude.
11:09 [Music]
11:16 Their first EP released, "Warrior," was full of militaristic vibes,
11:21 and it deservedly marched its way to number 10 on the World Albums Chart.
11:25 They won multiple trophies, including several MTV Europe Music Awards,
11:30 prior to their 2019 disbandment, a testament to their legacy.
11:35 [Music]
11:41 Number 9. G.O.D.
11:43 While their success might not have been immediate, this band's impact is timeless.
11:48 [Music]
11:54 They were one of the first idol groups to gain popularity through their own reality show,
11:58 and their debut song, "To Mother," later became a popular radio staple in Korea.
12:04 After rising to fame during the digital age, they set the benchmark for pop culture domination with
12:09 millions of sales and decades-long records that stood even as K-pop's popularity grew.
12:15 [Music]
12:23 After parting ways in the mid-2000s, they reunited in 2014. Maintaining their well-loved reputation
12:29 and storytelling strengths, G.O.D. has also continued to come together for anniversary
12:34 concerts and albums.
12:36 [Music]
12:43 Number 8. Monsta X
12:45 This group lives up to their name with a fierce stage presence and a beast-like image.
12:50 Originally formed on a survival show, their ambition has carried them to great heights.
12:55 [Music]
13:01 From having multiple albums certified platinum in Korea,
13:05 to reaching the top five on the U.S. Billboard 200,
13:08 they've made their presence known in the global K-pop scene.
13:11 Several members even help write their hit songs,
13:14 and they're known for experimenting with everything from rock to drill beats.
13:18 [Music]
13:24 As they've grown as a band, so have the idol's solo careers.
13:28 Shownu and Hyungwon notably birthed their own sub-unit, making a splash with their music
13:35 and performances. We can't wait to see what everyone has coming up next.
13:39 [Music]
13:46 Number 7. NCT
13:49 There's no easy way to break down the NCT system, but we'll keep it as simple as possible.
13:54 [Music]
13:59 Neo-culture technology is a heavily populated boy band with an array of sub-units,
14:05 each with their own concepts. This includes NCT Dream, Wavy NCT U, and NCT 127, among others.
14:14 And it's not just this unconventional structure that makes this boy band unique.
14:19 They've stayed relevant since NCT U's 2016 debut by representing both the
14:25 third and fourth generations of K-pop over the years.
14:28 [Music]
14:35 Many of the members are international, which has also aided their global success.
14:40 The combination of a massive discography, an experimental sound,
14:44 and the diverse talent among members has carried this group to the top.
14:47 [Music]
14:53 Number 6. EXO
14:55 EXO made one of the most creative debuts in K-pop history
14:59 with the release of their music video for "Mama."
15:01 [Music]
15:07 The video centered on the tree of life, with each of the members showing off some flashy
15:12 supernatural powers. People fell in love with their dramatic presentation and unique sound,
15:18 and it set EXO on their path to fame.
15:20 [Music]
15:27 The members of EXO are also official culture icons,
15:31 and have the commemorative medals to prove it.
15:33 They even performed for the closing ceremonies of the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in 2018.
15:39 [Music]
15:47 Number 5. TVXQ
15:50 Would you believe this group's debut appearance was on a holiday special
15:53 starring Britney Spears and BoA? No pressure, right?
15:56 [Music]
16:05 After the first wave of SM's early 2000s K-pop burned bright and fast,
16:10 TVXQ stepped up to the plate in 2003. They produced multiple award-winning albums,
16:15 and their track "Murotic" is one of K-pop's most iconic hits.
16:20 [Music]
16:26 The group is known for their genre-blending style, and their immense success overseas,
16:31 particularly in Japan. In 2010, contract and other disputes led to three of the members
16:37 stepping away, but the two remaining ones continued to release music both as a duo and as soloists.
16:43 [Music]
16:50 Number 4. SEVENTEEN
16:52 This next group is truly, well…
16:54 [Music]
16:59 The 13-member band debuted in 2015, and they soon became known for their high-energy performances.
17:05 In 2017, they broke further into the mainstream with "Don't Wanna Cry,"
17:10 and they've released multiple charting albums since.
17:14 So you might not guess that this hit-making machine was kind of a happy accident.
17:18 Only three members reportedly formally auditioned,
17:21 while the others were apparently cast/discovered.
17:25 [Music]
17:32 It's even more incredible when you consider that several of the members are highly involved in both
17:37 choreography and music production. As a larger group, their dances are stunning, with so many
17:43 members in perfect unison, giving the group a jaw-dropping effect that still feels effortless.
17:49 [Music]
17:55 Number 3. SHINee
17:57 [Music]
18:02 They're not just music icons, but fashion icons as well. They created what has been called the
18:08 "SHINee trend," which involves high tops, skinny jeans, and a whole lot of color. But of course,
18:14 they also excel on the music front, and are notably known for their live performances,
18:19 where they pull off insane choreography while still nailing their vocals.
18:23 [Music]
18:29 Originally a five-piece, SHINee suffered a blow when lead vocalist Jeongyeon died at 27.
18:37 His death reverberated through the K-pop community, with many celebrities and fans paying
18:42 their respects. SHINee decided to keep going as a four-piece, and they continue to honor Jeongyeon's
18:48 memory.
18:49 [Music]
18:56 Number 2. BIGBANG
18:59 Ever since their formation in 2006, they've had a huge influence on the entire genre.
19:04 [Music]
19:11 As the so-called "Kings of K-pop," BIGBANG not only write their own material,
19:15 but have creative control as well, which sets them apart from their peers. Their unique sound
19:21 has earned them over 130 awards over the years, as well as international success. And let's not
19:28 forget to mention their edgy style, which can only be described as "Mad Max" meets "high fashion."
19:34 [Music]
19:40 In 2018, the band was forced into hiatus by outside circumstances,
19:45 but they left fans with "Flower Road" as something of a parting gift.
19:49 Thankfully, they were back before we knew it, though the lineup underwent some changes.
19:54 [Music]
20:01 Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
20:06 IKON
20:07 Their fans aren't the only iconic ones.
20:09 [Music]
20:17 The Boyz
20:18 A group that will steal your heart.
20:20 [Music]
20:26 WINNER
20:27 YG's monster rookies.
20:29 [Music]
20:35 P1 Harmony
20:37 The rising stars earning their piece of the spotlight.
20:40 [Music]
20:48 PENTAGON
20:49 The boy band representing the five elements of perfect pop.
20:52 [Music]
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21:14 1. BTS
21:18 Over the course of the last 10 years, this boy band went from seven young
21:23 artists who were too cool for school to the world's most cherished superstars.
21:28 [Music]
21:35 Their road to stardom wasn't necessarily straightforward or easy,
21:39 but with hard work and an incredible fan base, the BTS craze caught like wildfire.
21:44 [Music]
21:51 By now, you've probably heard about their records and awards,
21:55 their philanthropy, and their endless radio hits. Even after announcing a temporary break in 2022,
22:02 the members' successes as soloists have only continued to grow.
22:06 More than just the next big boy band, the PENTAGON boys haven't only changed K-pop forever,
22:12 they've also made global music history.
22:15 [Music]
22:21 Which of these boy band's posters did you have on your wall?
22:24 And which is at the top of your playlist today? Let us know in the comments.
22:28 [Music]
22:35 Do you agree with our picks? Check out this other recent clip from Ms. Mojo,
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22:43 [Music]