KGMA 2025 Unveils Explosive Rookie Lineup: The Future of K-Pop Takes the Stage!

Get ready for a K-Pop spectacle as the next generation of idol groups prepares to light up the stage at the '2025 Korea Grand Music Awards (KGMA)'!

The highly anticipated 'Rookie' lineup for the event, scheduled for November 14th and 15th at the Inspire Arena in Incheon, has been revealed, featuring Miyaho, Ahop, All Day Project, Kiki, Kickflip, Close Your Eyes, Hearts to Hearts, and the special project team SMTR25.

Miyaho, who saw success with their debut EP's double title tracks 'Hands Up' and 'Drop Top' this past May, has been making waves with their hip-hop-infused sound and striking performances. Ahop, a boy group formed through the SBS audition program 'Universe League', achieved a remarkable debut album first-week sales of over 360,000 copies, marking them as a strong contender.

All Day Project, a co-ed group, stormed the music scene by topping charts immediately upon debut with their double title tracks. Kiki has solidified its position as a leading 5th-generation girl group with consecutive hits like 'I Do Me' and 'Dancing Alone'. Kickflip, debuting in January, made their mark by performing at the 'Lollapalooza Chicago' festival, showcasing their rising international profile.

Close Your Eyes, a multinational boy group formed from the JTBC audition program 'Project 7', set a new record for the fastest music show win among groups debuted in the 2020s. Hearts to Hearts, SM Entertainment's first girl group in five years, shattered records with their debut album's initial sales, positioning them as a prominent next-generation act.

Adding to the excitement, SMTR25, a team comprised of 25 male trainees from SM Entertainment, will present their official debut performance at KGMA, drawing significant attention from global K-Pop enthusiasts.

The 2025 KGMA promises a festival atmosphere celebrating diverse music genres including K-pop, bands, and trot. The event will be hosted by Irene of Red Velvet, Natty of KISS OF LIFE, and actress Nam Ji-hyun, with further lineup announcements to follow.

Hearts to Hearts is the highly anticipated new girl group from SM Entertainment, marking the label's first girl group in five years. Their debut single 'The Chase' achieved over 400,000 pre-order sales, setting a new record for a girl group's debut album. The group's follow-up track 'Style', released in June, continues to garner popularity.