K-pop is a global phenomenon, but not every talented group gets the spotlight they deserve. Here are 11 underrated K-pop groups with incredible music, unique styles, and strong performances that are worth checking out. Each group brings something special to the table, from powerful vocals to diverse concepts, yet they remain underappreciated in the crowded K-pop scene.
A.C.E: Bold Sounds and Stunning Choreography
A.C.E is a five-member boy group under Beat Interactive, debuting in 2017 with their single CACTUS. Their music leans toward EDM and pop with hints of R&B, as seen in their 2024 album My Girl: My Choice. The title track My Girl is a smooth blend of pop and R&B, while Angel showcases their emotional ballad side. Fans praise their synchronized choreography and striking visuals.
“Their choreography and synchronization is just out of this world. Something about this group really makes you want to spend hours watching them perform.” —K-pop fan on Quora
Despite military enlistments slowing their activities, A.C.E returned in 2023 with three singles, proving their resilience. Their small label limits their reach, but their talent rivals bigger names.
PURPLE KISS: Rich Harmonies and Witchy Vibes
PURPLE KISS, a seven-member girl group under RBW, debuted in 2021 with Into Violet. Known for their dark, witchy concepts, they shine with strong vocals, especially from members Goeun and Swan. Their 2024 single BBB is a relaxed yet powerful track, while Ponzona blends eerie vibes with catchy hooks.
“Their rich harmonies and distinctly feminine persona keep fans entranced.” —Ranker
Despite a fan concert in Seoul in 2024, PURPLE KISS struggles to break through due to inconsistent promotion. Their self-producing skills and unique sound make them a hidden gem.
KARD: Co-Ed Charisma and Tropical Beats
KARD, a co-ed group under DSP Media, debuted in 2017 with Hola Hola. Their tropical house and EDM-infused tracks like Ring The Alarm (2023) and Bomb Bomb stand out. The group’s mixed-gender dynamic, with members BM, J.Seph, Somin, and Jiwoo, brings a fresh energy.
“I love KARD! Their english songs are great too.” —Reddit user
KARD renewed their contracts in 2022, but their focus on international tours over domestic promotions keeps them under the radar in South Korea. Their versatile discography deserves more attention.
fromis_9: Bright Vocals and Catchy Pop
fromis_9, formed through Idol School under PLEDIS Entertainment, debuted in 2018 with To. Heart. Their bright, melodic pop songs like DM and Unlock My World (2023) highlight their vocal talent. Members Lee Saerom, Song Hayoung, and Baek Jiheon shine with their charm.
“Fromis_9, they do have some popularity, but still super underrated considering how good their music is.” —Reddit user
Despite a loyal fanbase, fromis_9 is often overshadowed by other HYBE groups. Their consistent quality and humor make them a group to watch.
PIXY: Dark Fantasy and Ethereal Sounds
PIXY, a five-member girl group under Allart Entertainment, debuted in 2021 with Wings. Their dark, fantasy-driven concepts and electronic-infused tracks like Villain and Addicted set them apart. Members Lola, Dia, Sua, Dajeong, and Rinji deliver moody vocals and storytelling.
“PIXY conveys a dark and mysterious image, enchanting listeners with their distinct sound.” —Ranker
Health-related member changes and limited promotion have hindered their growth, but PIXY’s unique style is gaining a cult following.
E’LAST: Melodramatic Flair and Sonic Contrast
E’LAST, an eight-member boy group under E Entertainment, debuted in 2020 with Day Dream. Their music, like Creature and Gasoline, blends cinematic chords with sparse arrangements for dramatic effect. Their charm lies in balancing aggressive and soft sounds.
“Few groups so effectively weaponize sonic contrast in such a coherent way.” —ScreenRant
Coming from a smaller label, E’LAST struggles against bigger competitors but holds their own with polished performances. Their 2024 activities include fan meetings, hinting at new music.
WOOAH: Upbeat Pop and Girl-Crush Energy
WOOAH, a five-member girl group under SSQ Entertainment, debuted in 2020 with EXCLAMATION. Their upbeat pop tracks like BLUSH and Bad Girl mix girl-crush and bright vibes. Members Nana, Wooyeon, Sora, Lucy, and Minseo bring diverse energy.
“WOO!ah! nails the cute and youthful concept with their bubblegum pop aesthetic.” —Ranker
WOOAH’s small company limits their exposure, but their catchy discography and strong stage presence make them a group to stan.
VIVIZ: Veteran Talent with Fresh Vibes
VIVIZ, a three-member girl group under BPM Entertainment, debuted in 2022 with Beam of Prism. Formed by former GFRIEND members Eunha, SinB, and Umji, their track Bop Bop! won on Show Champion just seven days after release. Their 2024 release Versus continues their vibrant sound.
“The members are incredibly talented and have appealing visuals.” —Sportskeeda
Despite their experience, VIVIZ remains underrated due to their smaller label. Their polished performances make them a standout.
CRAXY: Rap-Centric Powerhouse
CRAXY, a five-member girl group under SAI Entertainment, debuted in 2020 with My Universe. Their rap-heavy tracks like NUGUDOM and Poison Rose feature bold instrumentals and confident verses. Members Woo-Ah, KaRin, HyeJin, Swan, and ChaeY shine with versatility.
“CRAXY’s discography leans heavily toward rap-centric songs, and it works!” —Soompi
Limited promotion hinders CRAXY’s reach, but their fierce energy makes them a group to watch.
H1-KEY: Rising Stars with Bright Pop
H1-KEY, a four-member girl group under GLG, debuted in 2022 with Athletic Girl. Their 2023 track Rose Blossom and 2024’s Seoul (Such a Beautiful City) earned them their first music show win. Members Riina, Hwiseo, Seoi, and Yel deliver fresh, optimistic vibes.
“H1-KEY blew up in Korea with Rose Blossom, but hasn’t made as much noise internationally.” —Reddit user
H1-KEY’s bright sound and growing domestic popularity signal a bright future, but they need more global attention.
These groups continue to release music and engage fans despite challenges like small labels or limited promotion. A.C.E and VIVIZ are planning 2025 comebacks, while PURPLE KISS and TAN focus on tours. KARD, fromis_9, and H1-KEY are gaining traction with recent releases. PIXY, E’LAST, WOOAH, and CRAXY are active with fan events, hinting at new projects. Supporting these groups through streaming and sharing can help them shine brighter in 2025.
