2024 Review & 2025 Predictions: The Future of K-Pop Girl Groups
Published February 27, 2025
If there was one defining trend in K-pop last year, it was the dominance of girl groups. The industry made a major push, recognizing that girl groups had a stronger chance of breaking into the Western market compared to boy bands. However, this surge also brought a challenge—many groups started to look and sound alike, making it difficult for any single act to stand out.
The Rise and Repetition
Looking back, groups like 2NE1 made a lasting impact because they broke the mold. At a time when the industry was focused on wholesome, cute concepts, 2NE1 arrived with their fierce and powerful image. This formula later paved the way for BLACKPINK, though with a different approach—BLACKPINK was curated with visuals as a top priority, while 2NE1 was built on raw talent.
Now, in 2025, newer groups like BABYMONSTER and MAVE: are echoing similar themes, emphasizing glamor and power.
But the challenge remains—how can they set themselves apart? With so many acts following the same blueprint, it’s critical for these groups to carve out their own sound and identity moving forward.
Underrated & Underpromoted
One of the biggest disappointments in 2024 was the mismanagement of promising girl groups. Take aespa, for instance. When they debuted with Black Mamba, they showed immense potential, yet despite their talent, SM Entertainment hasn’t positioned them at the level they should be.
By now, they should be doing full-fledged world tours in arenas, but instead, they seem stuck in a cycle of underwhelming promotions.
The same issue applies to groups like Red Velvet, who had the potential to dominate but never quite reached their peak. Similarly, WJSN (Cosmic Girls) and Dreamcatcher have consistently delivered top-tier music but haven’t received the industry push they deserve.
Imaginary Friend, one of the best tracks released last year, could have been a breakthrough moment for its group, but it ultimately felt like a missed opportunity.
The Need for Creative Freedom
Another ongoing issue is the lack of female idols who have creative control over their music. While boy groups often have members involved in writing and producing, girl groups rarely get the same opportunities.
A few exceptions stand out—(G)I-DLE’s Soyeon continues to be a powerhouse, shaping her group’s sound and narrative.
LE SSERAFIM’s Yunjin is also emerging as a strong songwriter, hinting at a shift towards more creative independence for female idols.
TWICE members have been contributing to songwriting for a while, though they still aren’t given title tracks. Hopefully, 2025 will bring more recognition and opportunities for these artists to shape their own music.
The Changing Public Interest
Another intriguing shift last year was the decline of interest in controversies that once dominated headlines. What used to be major news barely made a ripple in 2024. K-pop has always thrived on scandals, but the past year proved that public attention is fleeting.
This change might influence how entertainment companies handle controversies moving forward. With BTS members set to return from military service, the industry’s focus could shift back to them, pushing other narratives out of the limelight.
This year will be crucial for girl groups. Those who can truly differentiate themselves—whether through sound, concept, or artistic autonomy—will have the best chance at long-term success. Meanwhile, the return of BTS is bound to reshape the industry. Will the new wave of girl groups continue their momentum, or will the spotlight shift once again?
One thing is certain—2025 is set to be an interesting year for K-pop. Let’s see who rises to the challenge and who gets left behind.
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