If you've been following the K-Pop industry, you will have noticed the sudden boom of groups from small to mid-sized companies achieving glorious success regardless of competition in recent years. This usually comes in the form of viral hits, organic "word of mouth" promotion, which is further followed up with activities that keep the spotlight shining. One such K-Pop girl group is H1-KEY, and it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that these young women are quickly becoming the next "it-girls" of K-Pop. How did this happen? Keep reading to find out!

H1-KEY is a 4th generation girl group that currently consists of members SEOI, RIINA, YEL, and HWISEO. The group debuted on January 5, 2022, with their first single album, "Athletic Girl", which was largely considered to be a strong debut. The title track, 'Athletic Girl' raked in millions of views on the music video and even showed impressive presence in several charts.

K-Pop fans could easily spot the brimming potential and could not help but support the group's music, especially considering the novel concept and empowering message of the debut song. Quickly, H1-KEY became a group that fans knew to keep an eye out for, with high expectations for their comeback.

Despite a change in the lineup with the departure of former member Sitala and the addition of HWISEO, H1-KEY made a wonderful comeback with their 1st Maxi Single Album, "RUN" which grew to be somewhat of a sleeper hit as it continues to gain traction and appreciation from fans even now. The bright, youthful sound of the title track 'Run' was reminiscent of early 2000s teen movies and drew in more fans as well as critical acclaim.

The members gained much praise for their stable live vocals as well as their charming and spirited stage presence. Fans also commended the group for retaining their concept of "healthy beauty" while also venturing into newer sonic territory and doing it incredibly well! There was simply no way not to stan.

This steady growth and success made itself evident through sales, as H1-KEY went from selling 264 copies in 1st-week sales (Hanteo) with "Athletic Girl" to 1,940 copies sold in 1st-week sales (Hanteo) with "Run". Little did they know, this number was to multiple manifolds with their next comeback.

H1-KEY's big break that finally launched the group from monster rookie status to rising stars came with their first mini-album, "Rose Blossom". The title song, also called 'Rose Blossom' or '건물 사이에 피어난 장미', written by DAY6's Young K and composed by Hong JiSang, attracted incredible attention for its profound and universally resonant lyrics, which naturally intrigued non-fans, introducing more and more of the general public to H1-KEY.

"I’m a rose among the concrete 
Until this bleak city becomes filled with color 
I’ll keep my head up, stand my ground until the very end 
Until they get drunk off of my scent and smile"

Several other factors, such as Young K's participation in and generous promotion of 'Rose Blossom', added to the surging popularity of the track. H1-KEY's performance of the song alongside Young K himself on "The Seasons: Long Day, Long Night with AKMU" and Young K's own cover of the song on "K-909" had an undeniable contribution towards sustaining the viral effect. The endearing relationship between both artists, with H1-KEY dubbing Young K the "mother of music" and Young K thanking H1-KEY for bringing the song to life, effortlessly fostered a crossover between fandoms. Moreover, sincere support from beloved celebrities like Lee MiJoo kept the momentum going until H1-KEY's outstanding talent was acknowledged on a global scale. Undoubtedly, the influence of social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts also played a pivotal role in "trending" the song and spreading its charm worldwide. As a result, 'Rose Blossom' is currently H1-KEY's most-streamed song on Spotify (5,554,506 streams). Many M1-KEY have also noted that H1-KEY's YouTube channel is proactive about making videos accessible to global fans through subtitles, which increases interest and immersion into the group's various contents.

For new fans, H1-KEY's mature concept/sound, meaningful lyrics, and impressive vocals presented the perfect image of a breakout star that deserves more attention. However, for long-time M1-KEY, the viral success of 'Rose Blossom' felt less like a surprising sensation and more like an affirmation of what they already knew: "as expected, this is H1-KEY". Rather than catering to ongoing trends in K-Pop, H1-KEY stuck to their musical signature and consistently delivered hits that stayed true to their style yet were diverse and fresh. In this regard, 'Rose Blossom' served as an excellent representation of H1-KEY's versatility and scope, piquing curiosity about what the group could have in store for us next.

'Rose Blossom' became a chart-topping hit, propelling H1-KEY to the big leagues. Their popularity in the mainstream snowballed, and so did sales, with "Rose Blossom" selling 6,920 copies in the 1st week (Hanteo). This journey of H1-KEY, blooming against all odds and making their name known all over the world through their art, is precisely the essence of 'Rose Blossom', which adds a layer of significance to this release.

Meanwhile, H1-KEY members RIINA and HWISEO participated in the idol survival show "Queendom Puzzle", further popularising the group both in South Korea and overseas. Being an Mnet show, especially a spin-off of the highly popular "Queendom", "Queendom Puzzle" was a remarkable platform for RIINA and HWISEO to cement their position in the K-Pop industry as individuals and also boost the buzz around H1-KEY. HWISEO ultimately won the competition, ranking 1st and becoming a part of the project girl group EL7Z UP, which in turn amplified interest in H1-KEY's discography. As new fans were directed to old songs, comments mentioning how they "came here" from "Queendom Puzzle" cropped up more often, indicating the impact of the show.

Not only was RIINA and HWISEO's participation in "Queendom Puzzle" effective, but it was also well-timed. Fans could not get enough of H1-KEY, and the demand for new music was evident. So, within months of "Rose Blossom" and days after the finale of "Queendom Puzzle", H1-KEY returned with their 2nd mini-album, "Seoul Dreaming" on August 30, opening up a new era of hopes, dreams, and fantastic music.

"Seoul Dreaming" sold 74,231 copies in 1st week of sales (Hanteo) - ten times what their previous album sold. H1-KEY also took home their first music show win on "The Show" with 'SEOUL (Such a Beautiful City)', the title track, once again written by Young K and composed by Hong JiSang, proving the magic of the unbeatable "Trust & Listen" combination. The synth-pop, retro-funk sound captivated listeners at once, confirming H1-KEY's streak of success.

In conclusion, H1-KEY has the formula down pat - music that resonates with the world, energy that reaches M1-KEY everywhere, and a strong identity that is unforgettable. This is not just how H1-KEY went viral but also how they entered our hearts, crept into our playlists, and made us fall head over heels in love. So, as H1-KEY continues to break records, top charts and achieve their dreams, we will keep cheering these lovely, talented women on.

Are you a M1-KEY? What is your favorite H1-KEY song? Tell us in the comments section down below!

 

We are blessed with new talent in the K-Pop industry almost every day. This is one of the best parts of being a K-Pop fan! You get to enjoy new groups with cool concepts and new music continuously. However, it's important to appreciate the artists already active in the industry who might be going underappreciated, too. You might feel like it's hard to keep up with all of the groups, but we've got you covered!

We are back with our selection of underappreciated K-Pop artists we'd like to get more recognition in the new year! For 2024, we truly hope to see these artists get some much-deserved spotlight

In 2022, we selected artists such as OMEGA X, A.C.E, Billlie, Ciipher, Dreamcatcher, KINGDOM, woo!ah!, SECRET NUMBER, bugAboo, and ONF.

In 2023, we selected artists such as Weki Meki, WOODZ, DKB, PURPLE KISS, OnlyOneOf, E'LAST, BAE173, PIXY, DKZ, and TO1.

Check out our selection for this year!

Note: This list is in random order and is not a ranking. 

 

1. Lapillus

Lapillus is a group that debuted in 2022.

Known for their killer choreography and catchy music, Lapillus is the first group on our list that we hope will get more recognition in 2024. The members have not only been praised for their bright and charismatic personalities but also for their talent as shining vocalists, dancers, and rappers. Many fans are hoping that Lapillus' stage presence will be appreciated on the main stage of the K-Pop industry this year as they deserve the special limelight.

Check out Lapillus' 'Who's Next' music video here.

 

2. CIX

CIX is a group that debuted in 2019.

Whilst they've been in the K-Pop game for a while, they are one of those groups that makes you scratch your head as they are overwhelmingly talented yet somehow still go underappreciated. Their discography speaks for itself and the sheer magnetic charm that they have when they perform on stage does the same. CIX has been stealing the hearts of many since its debut. However, we think it's about time that they steal the hearts of the entire K-Pop fandom as their dedication to their craft truly entitles them to. This group deserves all of the spotlight and more.

Check out CIX's 'Save me, Kill me' music video here.

 

3. BOYNEXTDOOR

BOYNEXTDOOR is a group that debuted in 2023.

Whilst BOYNEXTDOOR is from a sub-label of a huge company and has a popular mentor/CEO, they are still one of the groups that can honestly use a boost in recognition. The group has yet to release a skippable song and yet many are still sleeping on their golden discography. Once people get to listen to their music, they will ask themselves why they hadn't added BOYNEXTDOOR to their stan list much sooner. There is no doubt about this.

Check out BOYNEXTDOOR's '뭣 같아 (But Sometimes)' music video here.

 

4. tripleS

tripleS is a group that debuted officially in 2023 although they were quite active before.

tripleS has been one of the most innovative K-Pop groups we have seen in the industry as of late. Not only is the group's concept unique and keeping K-Pop fans on their toes/hyped with anticipation, but their music is so soothing to the ear, too. With their praiseworthy discography and all-rounder skills, this group lacks very little. Whilst the group has been steadily gaining attention, we predict that 2024 will be a big year for this group where they will become even bigger stars thanks to their dedication.

Check out tripleS' music video for 'Rising' here.

 

5. H1-KEY

H1-KEY is a group that debuted in 2022.

It seems that every time we write about H1-KEY, we have to praise their incredible lyricism and vocal talent. But what can we do? They're just that overwhelmingly talented that we need to emphasize their skills. H1-KEY has some of the best empowering songs that will leave you feeling like you can conquer the day and like a better version of yourself. Them getting more recognition is not just about more people discovering their talent, but also for the greater good of K-Pop fans who deserve to be blessed by their message.

Check out H1-KEY's music video for 'SEOUL (Such a Beautiful City)' here.

 

6. ATBO

ATBO is a group that debuted in 2022.

ATBO has one of the most slept-on discographies in K-Pop. Their music is of top quality and the kind that you will add to your playlist instantly upon hearing it. ATBO is especially great at performing their vibey music in a way that makes you want to dance along with them. This is one of their biggest performance charms. Not only do you get immersed in their performances but they make you want to join their bright energy, too.

Check out ATBO's music video for 'Must Have Love' here.

 

7. JUST B

JUST B is a group that debuted in 2021.

This group is known for being able to pull off versatile sounds and concepts but still keeping an admirable consistency. They are known for their strong and energetic persona which has captured the attention of many, especially during performances such as MAMA. Many of their fans have described them as a hidden gem in the industry that has huge potential to be the next big thing. Once people start listening to them, it will be a matter of time before they stan.

Check out JUST B's music video for 'MEDUSA' here.

 

8. VANNER

VANNER is a group that debuted in 2019.

Whilst this group won over the hearts of many during their time on the survival show "PEAK TIME", we need to give them more of their hard-earned flowers. Whilst their inspiring background is one thing to consider, you can't deny their level of talent. They have amazing energy, are captivating performers, have overwhelming passion, and their rap and vocal skills can't be ignored either. We hope that more and more people discover their charms as soon as possible.

Check out VANNER's music video for 'PERFORMER' here.

 

9. YOUNG POSSE

YOUNG POSSE is a group that debuted in 2023.

This group gained a lot of spotlight for their debut song as it embodied the not-too-serious essence that once was the biggest appeal of K-Pop. However, some could not appreciate the sentiment. Despite this, YOUNG POSSE's willingness to be creative has given them an appeal that is hard not to fall for in the eyes of many people. Many are looking forward to seeing more of their quirkiness in the future and hoping that this can be the driving force of them getting some more merited spotlight.

Check out YOUNG POSSE's music video for 'MACARONI CHEESE' here.

 

10. NINE.i

NINE.i is a group that debuted in 2022.

NINE.i has already been deemed a 'complete package' group thanks to their consistently good music, incredible production skills, and the carefree enchanting nature of the members themselves. They are the kind of idols who ease your worries as you stan them. It boggles the mind how this group has yet to get the buzz that they deserve, especially considering that their musical color is so one-of-a-kind.

Check out NINE.i's music video for 'NEVERLAND' here.

Do you have any other K-Pop groups that you think deserve more spotlight and recognition in 2024? 

In place of KBS' annual "Gayo Daechukje," the "2023 KBS Music Bank Global Festival" will be conducted this year, and the event is announced to be taking place in both Korea and Japan on 2 separate evenings. The event in Korea will be aired live, but the show in Japan will be pre-recorded. A lot of excitement is surrounding the event, especially fans are expecting mindblowing performances from the biggest artists in the industry. The event taking place in Korea will be hosted by RoWoon and Jang WonYoung, while the festivities in Japan will be hosted also by RoWoon, Go MinSi, and Lee YoungJi.

Wondering which artists will be present in the "2023 KBS Music Bank Global Festival"? Check it out below!

 

2023 Music Bank Global Festival In Korea Lineup (Part 1)

SunMi

MAMAMOO's HwaSa

fromis_9

(G)I-DLE

ONEUS

TXT

aespa

IVE

Xdinary Heroes

H1-KEY

ZEROBASEONE

RIIZE

NCT 127

NCT DREAM

CRAVITY

DAY6's Young K

FANTASY BOYS

xikers

 

2023 Music Bank Global Festival In Japan Lineup (Part 2)

LE SSERAFIM

ENHYPEN

STAYC

ITZY

ATEEZ

Stray Kids

THE BOYZ

NewJeans

NMIXX

Kep1er

NiziU

Kang Daniel

SHINee

J.Y Park

&TEAM

BOYNEXTDOOR

Golden Girls

Lee YoungJi

Melomance

P1Harmony

SHINee

 

[INFO]

Japan

Date: December 9, Saturday

Venue: Belluna Dome

 

Korea

Date: December 15, Friday

Venue: KBS Hall

 

Where You Can Watch Online

KBS World YouTube Channel