Legends Never Fade: The K-Pop Groups We Must Not Forget
- lewishooper1
- 6 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Honoring the bands that paved the way, defied the charts, and built the global stage we love today. We cover the top groups that left a lasting legacy, and which ones might be forgotten. Did we leave any groups out?
The Unsung Icons of K-Pop
In this article, the Dojeon team is going to take a deep dive into some groups that continue to dominate the daily charts, while others have built a legacy through sheer talent and a global bond that transcends rankings. It’s time we give flowers to the bands that continue to define the genre’s depth and diversity.
Understanding the 7 Tiers of K-Pop
The K-pop industry is often ranked into seven levels of popularity, ranging from the world-dominating "S-Tier" (like BTS and Blackpink) down to the "Nugu" groups fighting for a debut. Most of the artists that we have come to love and support, often for their unique concepts, like Dreamcatcher or WJSN, reside in the high "Mid-Tier," where they have huge talent but lack the "Big 4" company push.
Defying the Genre Norms
Dreamcatcher stands out thanks to their signature rock and metal-infused sounds! They are mainly known for having a bold, standout sound and image from the typical "bubbly" pop found on domestic charts. Dreamcatcher is often overlooked in Korea because their dark, supernatural concepts appeal more to Western rock fans than the mainstream domestic audience. Could 2026 and the shift of the K-pop industry welcome more mainstream music from this incredible band?
The Cost of Complexity
LOONA changed the game with an intricate "Loonaverse" lore and a high-budget pre-debut project that built a massive, cult-like international following. Ever since this mind-blowing success, legal battles and long gaps between releases have sadly caused them to lose momentum at home. This has unfortunately made it easy for casual listeners to lose track of their brilliance. What is your favorite track from LOONA?
Navigating the Crowded Market
Next up is WJSN (Cosmic Girls). The Dojeon team has spoken out about the crowded K-pop market and how difficult it is for bands to navigate and stand out. Sadly, this is the case for WJSN. In the past, they have been celebrated for their elegant, ethereal concepts and synchronized choreography that truly feels "out of this world." However, despite their high-quality discography, they often get lost in the shuffle of "Big 4" company debuts. This has proved how hard it is for mid-tier groups to maintain a permanent spot in the spotlight. Will you start streaming their music to get them more views and revenue?
The Price of Independence
Despite their massive global hits, NewJeans faced a turbulent period of hiatus and line-up shifts due to intense legal disputes with their label. The Dojeon team has followed this rollercoaster of a journey every step of the way. Sadly, they are at risk of being forgotten by the industry, not because of talent, but because corporate battles can often overshadow the music itself. With this scandal still ongoing, we wonder what 2026 will bring for them.
The Power of Fandom
For K-pop groups, having a strong fan base is key, especially when it comes to loyalty. Fan bases are known for keeping artists' music alive, and with social media, any news is simply good news, as it keeps artists relevant! Sadly, without this unwavering support, many of the industry's most creative moments would have gone unnoticed.
Final thoughts
We believe that popularity comes and goes; however, the impact from some of these K-pop acts is permanent. We want to continue to make sure that these talented artists remain part of the conversation when it comes to all things K-pop! Will 2026 bring more success for some of these incredible artists?
Which K-pop act from this article surprised you the most? Comment below!
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