Top 20 Best K-Pop Boy Bands

You may have seen Astro in 2023 headlines due to the sudden and tragic passing of 25-year-old member Moonbin. While the band’s long-term future is uncertain following the devastating loss, Moonbin and his bandmates built an incredible legacy together. From the start, the group’s online popularity led to them performing around South Korea before they’d even officially debuted. They went on to climb the ranks, releasing popular hits that earned them Billboard success and recognition. On top of a stand out danceline, member Eun-woo is also an extremely popular public figure and actor in Korea. While many would call the band underrated, their music and performances speaks for themselves.

Today, idol groups rule the pop music scene, but it wasn’t always that way. H.O.T was brought together by SM Entertainment’s Lee Soo-man in 1996, and their goal was to reach a brand new audience: teenagers. As the band’s music and style caught on, their younger audience developed the dedicated fan culture that has become the backbone of K-Pop today. H.O.T. were also one of the first Korean acts to capitalize on their popularity among overseas fans. Though they disbanded in 2001, they’ve since notably performed a reunion concert, and the members have continued their careers in various areas of entertainment.

From the beginning, this band had big shoes to fill. Not only were they a brand new boy group debuting under HYBE, but they were also formed on a reality show that aimed to create the “perfect” K-Pop act. However, rather than fold under the pressure of a pandemic debut, Enhypen went on to win multiple Rookie of the Year awards. As you may have guessed, the “hyphen” in their name refers to their desire to create connection, and they’ve done so with both international members and fans. Whether it’s both of their albums being hits or getting rid of positions due to their members' well-rounded talents, this group truly stands out from the crowd.

When the 11-man group “One Day” was split in two, 2PM was born. In their very first music video, they attracted attention with their crazy dance skills. Sure, boy bands are generally known for impressive dancing – but 2PM does acrobatics to boot. They also have a big presence in television, since they hosted MBC’s “Idol Show”, and starred in their own reality show “Wild Bunny”. As if that wasn’t enough, they’re quite the trendsetters, and their image created an entire jimseung-dol, or “beast,” phenomenon in their home country. We certainly missed them during their hiatus, but were beyond thrilled to see them back in action in 2021.

Back in 2014, this JYP boy band quite literally flipped their way into K-Pop fans hearts, and it wasn’t long before they were hurtling to the top of the charts. While their style evolved, their popularity hasn’t waned. Thanks to catchy hits, international members, and endless talent, GOT7 is extremely popular both in Asia and all around the globe. They’re one of those boy bands whose members all have significant followings outside of the group. Though they split from JYP in 2021 and have been working on their solo ventures, they did treat us to an EP in 2022. Plus, they’ve assured fans that something “big” is coming in the near future.

You can’t talk about K-Pop’s international impact without bringing up this young group, since they took the world by storm. Brought together by a reality show, the JYP band officially debuted in 2018 and quickly earned multiple awards for new and rising artists. Known for writing and producing their own songs, an amazing rap line, and their unique sound, the group is unafraid to take up space with their edgy style. A true viral phenomenon, they’ve risen to fame alongside a loyal fan base that has earned them millions of views and streams. Just like their lyrics say, Stray Kids is well on its way to world domination.

These first generation trail blazers have earned the title as the longest-running Kpop group. Since their debut in 1998, they’ve released countless albums and EPs, as well as more than 30 singles, not including the members' solo music. While their success started at SM, they later created their own company to promote the band, to great effect. Part of the reason they’ve maintained their popularity is that they’re unafraid of change. Their evolving style has made each comeback feel fresh and new. After paving the way and staying the course, it’s no surprise that the band’s become so legendary.

You could consider this group a dark horse in the K-pop scene, but ATEEZ have made their mark with their incredible performance ability and a host of catchy hits. Since their 2018 debut, the group’s been breaking down walls, rising to the top without big company privilege. From their KQ Fellaz dance video to their iconic MAMA’s performance, they’ve continued to capture the world’s attention. Their unique pirate concept is brought to life by the members’ incredible stage presence and acting abilities, and as their momentum has grown, so has their recognition. With a slew of awards and multiple world tours under their belt, ATEEZ has truly become a global sensation.

This band broke into the music scene with a fresh new style. With few members and a fun and upbeat concept, the members’ talent was immediately obvious. The first boy band to debut under Big Hit since K-Pop giants BTS, they had a lot to live up to. And with a record-setting debut album, it’s safe to say they delivered. Since then, they’ve been dubbed an “IT group,” consistently topped charts, and became the first headlined at Lollapalooza – a first for K-pop bands. They’ve also fueled their international popularity with a series of collabs with everyone from the Jonas Brothers to Iann Dior and Anitta. After their recent success at the VMAs, it’s clear this band’s not going anywhere.

Few K-Pop bands have been as influential as this super group. The second-generation phenomenon are considered one of the main drivers of the Hallyu Wave, but their success isn’t just history. Over the years, the band has raked in achievements and continued to churn out hits, both as a full ensemble and through a series of successful subgroups. To say Super Junior is decorated is an understatement, and they’ve been touring and performing consistently over the years as well. Whether it’s their iconic hit “Sorry, Sorry” or their newer single “Mango,” it looks like this boy band will always have a place at the top of K-Pop.

To get straight to the heart of B.A.P, all we have to do is explain their name: ‘best, absolute, perfect’. After its formation in 2012, the group rejected the polished image typical of k-pop in favor of being rough and tumble bad boys. This translated into their music, which is edgy and full of attitude. Their first EP released, “Warrior”, was full of militaristic vibes, and it deservedly marched its way to number 10 on the World Albums Chart. They won multiple trophies, including several MTV Europe Music awards, prior to their 2019 disbandment, a testament to their legacy.

While their success might not have been immediate, this band’s impact is timeless. They were one of the first idol groups to gain popularity through their own reality show, and their debut song “To Mother” later became a popular radio staple in Korea. After rising to fame during the digital age, they set the benchmark for pop culture domination with millions of sales and decades long records that stood even as K-Pop’s popularity grew. After parting ways in the mid-2000s, they reunited in 2014. Maintaining their well-loved reputation and storytelling strengths, g.o.d. has also continued to come together for anniversary concerts and albums.

This group lives up to their name with a fierce stage presence and a beast-like image. Originally formed on a survival show, their ambition has carried them to great heights. From having multiple albums certified platinum in Korea to reaching the top five on the US Billboard 200, they’ve made their presence known in the global K-Pop scene. Several members even help write their hit songs, and they’re known for experimenting with everything from rock to drill beats. As they’ve grown as a band, so have the idols’ solo careers. Shownu and Hyungwon notably birthed their own sub-unit, making a splash with their music and performances. We can’t wait to see what everyone has coming up next!

There’s no easy way to break down the NCT system, but we’ll keep it as simple as possible. Neo Culture Technology is a heavily populated boy band with an array of sub-units, each with their own concepts. This includes NCT Dream, WayV NCT U, and NCT 127, among others. And it’s not just this unique structure that makes this boy band unique. They’ve stayed relevant since NCT U’s 2016 debut by representing both the third and fourth generations of K-Pop over the years. Many of the members are international, which has also aided their global success. The combination of a massive discography, an experimental sound, and the diverse talent among members has carried this group to the top.

EXO made one of the most creative debuts in K-pop history with the release of their music video for “Mama”. The video is centered on the tree of life, with each of the members showing off some flashy supernatural powers. People fell in love with their dramatic presentation and unique sound, and it set EXO on their path to fame. The members of EXO are also official culture icons, and have the commemorative medals to prove it. They even performed for the closing ceremonies of the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in 2018!

Would you believe this group’s debut appearance was on a holiday special starring Britney Spears and BoA? No pressure, right? After the first wave of SM’s early 2000s K-Pop burned bright and fast, TVXQ stepped up to the plate in 2003. They produced multiple award-winning albums, and their track “Mirotic” is one of K-Pop’s most iconic hits. The group is known for their genre-blending style and their immense success overseas, particularly in Japan. In 2010, contract and other disputes led to three of the members stepping away, but the two remaining ones continued to release music both as a duo and as soloists.

This next group is truly, well… SB hot. The thirteen member band debuted in 2015, and they soon became known for their high-energy performances. In 2017, they broke further into the mainstream with “Don’t Wanna Cry,” and they’ve released multiple charting albums since. So, you might not guess that this hit-making machine was kind of a happy accident. Only three members reportedly formally auditioned, while the others were apparently cast/discovered. It’s even more incredible when you consider that several of the members are highly involved in both choreography and music production. As a larger group, their dances are stunning with so many members in perfect unison, giving the group a jaw-dropping effect that still feels effortless.

They’re not just music icons, but fashion icons as well. They created what has been called the “SHINee trend”, which involves high-tops, skinny jeans and a whole lot of color. But of course, they also excel on the music front, and are notably known for their live performances, where they pull off insane choreography while still nailing their vocals. Originally a five piece, SHINee suffered a blow when lead vocalist Jongyun died at 27. His death reverberated through the k-pop community, with many celebrities and fans paying their respects. SHINee decided to keep going as a four piece, and they continue to honor Jongyun’s memory.

Ever since their formation in 2006, they’ve had a huge influence on the entire genre. As the so-called “Kings of K-pop”, BigBang not only write their own material but have creative control as well, which sets them apart from their peers. Their unique sound has earned them over 130 awards over the years, as well as international success. And let’s not forget to mention their edgy style, which can only be described as ‘Mad Max meets high fashion’. In 2018 the band was forced into hiatus by outside circumstances, but they left fans with “Flower Road” as something of a parting gift. Thankfully, they were back before we knew it, though the lineup underwent some changes.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

iKON
Their Fans Aren’t the Only Iconic Ones

The Boyz
A Group That Will Steal Your Heart

WINNER
YG’s “Monster Rookies”

P1Harmony
The Rising Stars Earning their “P1ece” of the Spotlight

PENTAGON
The Boy Band Representing the Five Elements of Perfect Pop

Over the course of the last ten years, this boy band went from seven young artists who were “2 Cool 4 Skool” to the world’s most cherished superstars. Their road to stardom wasn’t necessarily straightforward or easy, but with hard work and an incredible fan base, the BTS craze caught like wildfire. By now, you’ve probably heard about their records and awards, their philanthropy, and their endless radio hits. Even after announcing a temporary break in 2022, the members' successes as soloists have only continued to grow. More than just the “next big boy band”, the Bangtan Boys haven’t only changed K-Pop forever: they’ve made global music history.

Which of these boy bands’ posters did you have on your wall, and which is at the top of your playlist today? Let us know in the comments below.