What defines a generation of idols? Opinions on which groups have opened up a new generation always spark debate among K-pop fans. However, looking back, the generational divide among idol groups is generally clear. A new generation of idols representing distinct characteristics from their predecessors naturally reorganizes the landscape.

In the late 1990s, H.O.T. and Sechs Kies marked the 1st generation of idols. The 2nd generation, including BIGBANG, TVXQ, Girls' Generation, and Wonder Girls, debuted in the mid-to-late 2000s and brought the Korean Wave to Asia with their talents. The 3rd generation, led by EXO, BTS, BLACKPINK, and TWICE, expanded the K-pop stage globally.

Groups debuting in the late 2010s and early 2020s claimed to be the 4th generation, but until recently, there was some disagreement on whether the 4th generation had actually arrived. However, with boy groups like TOMORROW X TOGETHER and Stray Kids achieving significant results on the US Billboard charts and girl groups like aespa, IVE, LUNARSOLAR, and NEWNS creating chart-topping hits, the 4th generation is now widely accepted.

With the 4th generation groups dominating the scene, rookie groups debuting this year are already attempting to differentiate themselves as the 5th generation. If they showcase completely different performances from the 4th generation, they may be recognized as the beginning of the 5th generation in the future.

Particularly this year, large entertainment agencies are ambitiously preparing rookie groups to make their debut, attracting the attention and anticipation of many K-pop fans.

YG Entertainment's new girl group, BABYMONSTER, set to debut about seven years after BLACKPINK, has already garnered global attention despite not having confirmed members yet. Their pre-debut reality show, "Last Evaluation," is being released weekly, showcasing their overwhelming talent and all-around skills.

The 9-member boy group ZERObaseONE (ZB1), formed through Mnet's "Boys Planet," has also gained global fans' attention since they were chosen by star creators from 184 countries and regions. Claiming to be a 5th generation K-pop boy group, ZB1 broke the record for the fastest K-pop group to reach 1 million followers on social media in just six days. They are set to prove their talents with a performance at "KCON JAPAN 2023" on May 13th and 14th before their official debut.

Hybe's new boy group BOYNEXTDOOR and Zico's KOZ Entertainment's BOYNEXTDOOR are also gathering much anticipation. With little information available about the members, fans are eagerly awaiting their debut on May 30th, which will coincide with a performance at a major music festival.

In addition, Pledis Entertainment, home to SEVENTEEN, is planning to debut a new boy group selected through a global audition, while JYP Entertainment is preparing for the debut of boy groups from SBS's "LOUD," Chinese boy groups, and a male version of NiziU. SM Entertainment is also preparing to launch NCT Tokyo and a new rookie boy group this year.

As mega rookies line up to debut, all eyes are on which team will open the new 5th generation of idols.

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