Here Are The 8 Fourth Generation Idol Groups Dominating K-Pop, According To Hanteo

In 2021, it seems as if the rising success of fourth-generation groups has dominated the charts and news. Recently, Hanteo Chart posted a report looking at some of the most successful groups who have debuted in the last four years and their achievements. It includes digital streaming scores, Global Authentication rankings (global purchases), and social media growth.

Here is a look at the eight fourth-generation idols that are paving the way, in no particular order, according to statistics by the Hanteo Chart.

1. ITZY

Since debuting in 2019, ITZY has taken the K-Pop world by storm. After the release of their fourth mini-album Guess Who, the group had success in various departments. It included a digital score of 453223.89 and an increase in Instagram followers by 2.72 million, which is the second-highest for fourth-generation groups. 

2. aespa

Once aespa debuted, there was no stopping them from earning the nickname “Monster Rookies.” In 2021, the group showcased their dominance by having the highest digital streaming score of fourth-generation girl groups, alongside their success in breaking YouTube records. On social media, their rise in followers also showcases their rise in popularity.

3. TXT

TXT has had huge success in 2021 and has caught the eyes of fans globally. The group sold over 722,000 copies of their albums and ranked within the top ten in the global authentication chart. Alongside that, their presence on social media has grown, and they have gained more than 2.72 more Twitter followers.

4. Stray Kids

Many fans see Stray Kids as being the leaders of the fourth generation after officially debuting in 2018. The report shows the amount of success the group has had, from showing the most growth through social media and proving their popularity abroad with their global authentication ranking.

5. TREASURE

Although the group only debuted in 2020, the group has achieved huge success in the Hanteo charts. TREASURE ranked fifth in global authentication, which is a big deal! The group also ranked in the top three fourth-generation groups with the biggest social media growth, as they had a 1.68 million increase in YouTube subscribers.

6. STAYC

STAYC is one of the most underrated girl groups around, but their success in this report shows their rise in popularity. The group had the second highest digital score for fourth-generation female idols with 518310.86 points. Despite being the first act from High Up Entertainment, they have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with.

7. ENHYPEN

Although only debuting 2020, ENHYPEN has already seen huge success both in Korea and internationally. With album sales totaling over 488,000 and ranking ninth for album authentication, the group has also proven their power on social media in 2021.

8. ATEEZ

Throughout 2021, ATEEZ has continued to show their growth globally. They joined some huge third-generation names by joining the list of top-selling artists with their latest album selling more than 420,000 copies. ATEEZ also ranked in the top ten for the global authentication chart, showcasing their international popularity.