The Best Rookie K-pop Idols of 2021: A Year of Emerging Talent
Introduction to K-pop Rookies
In the K-pop jargon, the term 'rookie' can be a bit confusing. Traditionally, rookies refer to groups or idols who have just debuted, but in reality, the label can linger for a couple of years until they release a second album or win awards. This fluidity in definition often sees two-year-old groups still being referred to as rookies. All of the following rising artists debuted in 2021, and each one has the potential to captivate fans with their unique talents and emotions.
Attributes and Origins of Rising Groups
is a Perfect Existence
is a seven-member girl group formed by TR Entertainment and Universal Music Group. The group's name is unique, derived from 'Tri' (an abbreviation of 'Triangle', symbolizing perfection) and 'Be', which means existence, giving the name the meaning of 'perfect existence' or 'perfect being'. The group released their musical projects in 2021 and has already gained recognition for their powerful lyrics and poignant delivery.
KINGDOM: A History of Kings
KINGDOM, also a seven-member boy group under GF Entertainment, debuted on February 18, 2021. The 'cool' aspect of this group is that each member represents a historical king. Their debut album, 'History of Kingdom: Part Ⅰ. Arthur', tells the story of King Arthur. The group's name and concept evoke a sense of historical reverence and modern pop sensibilities.
MIRAE: The Future Age
MIRAE is a new South Korean group under DSP Media, consisting of seven members: Lien, Lee Jun-hyuk, Dou-hyun, Khael, Son Dong-pyo, Park Si-young, and Jang Yu-bin. Debuting on March 17, 2021, with their first EP 'KILLA', MIRAE quickly garnered attention for their visual blend and impressive performance. Fans considered 'KILLA' the best debut of the year, highlighting the group's promise and potential.
HOT ISSUE: Honest and Outstanding
HOT ISSUE, a seven-member South Korean group under S2 Entertainment, debuted with the name 'HOT ISSUE', combining the words "Honest", "Outstanding", and "Terrific". Members include Mayna, Nahyun, Hyeongshin, Dana, Yewon, Yebin, and Dain. Through their name, the group positions itself as a group of honest individuals, outstanding in their craft, and terrific in their talents.
EPEX: Apex of Excellence
EPEX, an eight-member boy group under C9 Entertainment, made their debut in June with the EP 'Bipolar Pt.1: Prelude of Anxiety'. Their group name combines the number 8 and Apex, symbolizing the peak of their potential. Members include Wish, Keum, MU, A-Min, Baekseung, Ayden, Yewang, and Jeff. Their debut single, 'Lock Down', showcases the group's lyrical depth and emotional resonance, particularly in the line 'Walking a tightrope between envy and jealousy the smell of dearth breath in the cruel lambs all competing getting jealousy and hatred spreading widely like Covid'. This sentence encapsulates the struggle and complexity of modern relationships.
Lee Mu-jin: A Reflection of Life
Lee Mu-jin gained some popularity in 2020 on the singing audition show 'Sing Again', finishing in third place. His single 'Traffic Light' reflects on the difficulties of making decisions in society, using the title to symbolize the different choices one faces in daily life, from the literal traffic lights to the metaphorical ones in life's journey.
Omega X: A Group of Leaders
Omega X, an eleven-member boy group under Spire Entertainment, is unique in that all members are considered leaders. Debuting in June with the EP 'Vamos', their four songs show a versatile range of moods and feelings, showcasing their ability to adapt and evolve musically.
Ive: I Have
Ive, a six-member girl group under Starship Entertainment, made their debut on December 1 with the single 'Eleven'. The name 'Ive' is just a short form of 'I Have', signaling a shared bond and sense of ownership. This group aims to capture the essence of modern females and their individuality.
Conclusion
2021 was a notable year for K-pop rookies, with each group bringing a unique twist and a fresh take on the genre. From the symbolism-laden names of to the versatile MIRAE, these groups have shown enormous potential and a promising future for K-pop enthusiasts and fans worldwide.