From the bustling roads of Seoul to the romantic streets of Italy, a new era of girl groups is taking the global spotlight, selling out arenas and setting fashion trends. This reinvigoration of female-led dancer-singer ensembles blend culture, genre, and digital connection to reinvent what the ‘girl group’ represents today.
Known for their harmonized vocals, coordinated choreography, and dynamic performances, groups like KATSEYE, FLO, and ILLIT lead this new generation showcasing their multicultural identities through their musical talents while fusing genres; these groups bring a fresh voice to global pop music and style, propelling the girl group archetype back into mainstream success.
KATSEYE is a rising girl group known for fusing various cultural influences with hyperpop elements. Formed through the global reality show Dream Academy—where aspiring performers from around the world competed for one of six spots—KATSEYE quickly captured attention with their viral hit “Gnarly,” which defines their striking personality, with memorable lyrics and a deliberate incorporation of creative chaos. Embracing the international identities of each member, KATSEYE authentically blends their personalities into their sound and style, representing wider audiences in music. Each member’s unique sound and style contribute to a larger message: success in music is not limited to strict conformity— but to authenticity and diversity.
Similarly, K-pop group, ILLIT, has progressively gained popularity following their debut, merging house pop with R&B, and pairing music with savvy branding. For example, their debut single, “Magnetic,” is a buzzworthy sensation that captures Gen Z through relatable lyrics and aesthetic visuals. ILLIT notably promoted their albums through brand partnerships with well-known companies such as Acne Studios and M&M, catching the eye of the new generation. A fusion of genres, ILLIT offers a fresh and distinct sound that sets them apart from conventional K-pop groups, combining musical experimentation with strategic branding and digital engagement—creating masterpieces that resonate deeply with modern (Gen Z) audiences.
FLO, the British girl group known for reviving the smooth sounds of the early 2000s R&Bs, brings a modern twist to nostalgia. Reminiscent of groups like Destiny’s Child and TLC by bringing back smooth harmonies, soulful vocals, and a retro visual aesthetic, the trio appeals to nostalgia, while also–through a contemporary style production and modern messages of self-worth, emotional boundaries, and authenticity in the social media age FLO reminds listeners that girl groups can honor tradition while shaping the future, bridging the past and present.
Whether through genre-bending sound, cross-cultural storytelling, or digital engagement this new generation of girl groups redefines the art and sound of this style of pop–music while bringing it back into the mainstream. With fresh perspectives, unique sounds, and creative styles, groups like KATSEYE, ILLIT, and FLO are taking the music industry by storm. The rise of these three musical groups shows that the era of girl groups is long from over but rather has just begun.
