Charting the Future: Which Rookie Group Will Dominate K-Pop in 2026?
- lewishooper1
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
K-pop is set to have a new reign! We cover the top six rookie groups ready to take the crown in 2026!
A new year means new music! The Dojeon team is excited about the prospect of new drama, music, and catchy melodies this year! We have compiled a short list of possible rookie groups that may or may not dominate the K-pop charts in 2026. Let's take a look!
This new group is a self-produced boy band, which is clearly leading the way when it comes to the "anarchic" pop-punk trend, with high international streaming numbers and a global audience. Their creative autonomy and guitar-driven sound make them the primary contenders for global dominance in 2026. Do you think 2026 could see the rise of a new K-boyband?
IDID was formed through one of Korea's notorious survival shows, and since then, they have achieved "million-seller" status with their debut album. Thanks to their success, they are expected to sweep domestic digital charts next year. Could their high-end and high-energy performance style and strong public recognition be to thank for this?
KiiiKiii is capturing the Gen Z market by blending 90s nostalgia with a chic, easy-listening city-pop aesthetic. With a new year incoming, KiiKii's blend of old and new could really take over the charts, as well as social media platforms, and elevate them as one of the go-to groups for trendy melodic hits in 2026. The Dojeon team certainly hope so!
As the product of Boys II Planet, this group is about to enter 2026 with a massive, pre-built global fandom ready to dominate physical sales. Thanks to their success already, it is rumored that they will be the main rivals for every major Rookie of the Year award. Do you think this could be true? We certainly hope so!
This group has made it to the list of groups to watch out for next year, mainly due to the fact of their success and history when it comes to topping the Billboard Hot 100. This just goes to prove that virtual idols are a permanent fixture in the industry. Their crossover appeal into film and gaming ensures they will remain a dominant cultural force throughout 2026. Could there be new global hits from this virtual group?
Slated for a late 2025 or early 2026 debut, depending on how you look at it, this group is expected to uphold SM's reputation for experimental sounds and top-tier visuals in 2026. They are the most anticipated traditional "big label" launch, likely focusing on a sophisticated, high-concept brand. Could SMTR26 bring a new generation of fans to SM's already packed portfolio?
Final Thoughts
2026 really is looking like it is set to become the new year in the K-pop music industry! The Dojeon team are really looking forward to watching how some of these rookie groups perform in what is an oversaturated market!
Which rookie group do you think will take over K-pop in 2026? Have your say and comment below!