New idol groups announced for the 2025 KGMA in Incheon include MEOVV, AHOF, and more, showcasing their impressive achievements.
September/12/2025 12:31Related Groups & Members
New idols will all mobilize for the 'KOREA GRAND MUSIC AWARDS' (hereafter 'KGMA'). Today (12th), the KGMA organizing committee announced the 'rookie' lineup for the 2nd KGMA, to be held on November 14 and 15 at Inspire Arena in Incheon, Jung-gu, Unseo-dong, including MEOVV, AHOF, ALLDAY PROJECT, KiiiKiii, KickFlip, CLOSE YOUR EYES, Hearts2Hearts, and SMTR25. MEOVV debuted in May this year, with their double title tracks 'HANDS UP' and 'DROP TOP' hitting simultaneously, starting their momentum. With a hip-hop-based sound and excellent performances, they left a strong impression on K-POP fans, showing long-lasting popularity due to the resurgence of 'HANDS UP'. AHOF is a boy group born from SBS's audition program 'UNIVERSE LEAGUE'. Their 1st EP 'WHO WE ARE', released in July, recorded an initial sales of 360,985 copies, ranking 5th in the debut album initial sales ranking for boy groups. ALLDAY PROJECT is a mixed-gender group that shocked the music world by achieving the number one spot on music charts right after their debut in June with double title tracks 'FAMOUS' and 'WICKED'. They captured the hearts of global fans with their sensory music and stylish performances, proving their solid skills despite being newcomers. KiiiKiii made a strong first impression with their title track 'I DO ME' upon debut in February. They captivated K-POP fans with their unique charm and also hit with 'DANCING ALONE' released in August, becoming a representative of the 5th generation girl groups. KickFlip is a new star that debuted in January this year. In just six months, they performed at the large music festival 'Lollapalooza Chicago', establishing their status as a 'K-POP rookie'. They will release their 3rd mini-album 'My First Flip' on the 22nd, delighting fans with three continuous activities this year. CLOSE YOUR EYES is a multinational boy group born from the JTBC audition program 'PROJECT7', which achieved the number one spot on music programs just six days after releasing their debut song 'All My Poetry', setting a record for the fastest number one for a boy group debuting in the 2020s. Hearts2Hearts, the first girl group from SM Entertainment in five years, garnered attention even before their debut. Their debut single 'The Chase', released in February, sold over 400,000 copies, recording the highest initial sales for a girl group debut album, and they are being watched as a representative group for the next generation. Their song 'STYLE', released in June, continues to enjoy long-lasting popularity. The lineup for the 2025 KGMA also includes the project team SMTR25, composed of 25 male trainees from SM Entertainment's next generation. They have showcased high-quality stages at events like 'SMTOWN LIVE 2025' and '2025 TME live International Music Awards (TIMA)', attracting attention from overseas fans. As this will be the stage for SM's new idol group set to debut, interest from K-POP fans both domestically and internationally is expected to be very high. The details of which members will perform what stages will be revealed at the KGMA event. The '2025 KGMA' will feature artists who have achieved significant results in various popular music genres, including K-POP, bands, and trot, receiving great support from fans both domestically and internationally over the year, creating a festival where artists and fans come together. Irene from Red Velvet and Natty from KISS OF LIFE will serve as MCs on the 14th and 15th, respectively, with actor Nam Ji-hyun returning as an MC for two consecutive days to liven up the stage. Prior to this, the KGMA organizing committee announced the first lineup including BOYNEXTDOOR, Stray Kids, IVE, ATEEZ, Kiss of Life, and FIFTY FIFTY. They plan to sequentially announce the second and third lineups following the first and rookie lineups.
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The 2025 KGMA, themed 'LINK to K-POP', will take place on Nov 14-15 in Incheon, featuring 31 artists. Highlights include unique performances by Stray Kids and IVE, a special stage by NATTY, and covers by 5th generation groups of hits from earlier generations, showcasing K-POP's evolution.
AHOF opens the second chapter towards their complete form with the announcement of their 2nd mini-album 'The Passage'. The album explores the growth pains of transitioning from boyhood to adulthood. The release schedule includes teasers and concept photos starting from October 20, with the album launching on November 4 at 6 PM.
AHOF is set to make a comeback with their 2nd mini-album 'The Passage' on November 4. Following their debut success, they aim to continue their momentum. The group has gained attention for their heartfelt music and impressive performances, and fans are excited to see their journey unfold through this new album. They have already achieved significant milestones, including awards and sold-out concerts, showcasing their potential in the K-POP scene.
The 2025 KOREA GRAND MUSIC AWARDS will showcase 31 artists over two days in Incheon. Notable performers include ATEEZ, Stray Kids, and BOYNEXTDOOR, promising exciting live performances. The event will feature a mix of established and rookie artists, with Nam Ji-hyun as MC and various top actors as presenters.
The 2025 Idol Star Championships highlighted top K-pop idols competing in various sports. X:IN's Nova won gold in dance sports, achieving a record score. The event showcased fierce competition, including mixed-gender shooting and thrilling relay races, solidifying its status as a premier entertainment program during the Chuseok holiday.
The 2025 Idol Star Championship aired in Korea, achieving a 0.9% rating among the 20-49 demographic. Highlights included thrilling competitions in events like the PK shootout and 60m races, with idols showcasing their athletic skills. The event is set to continue with more exciting matches in its second part.
The 2025 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS concluded successfully in Macau, featuring 15 K-POP artists. Stray Kids won four awards, including 'Honor of the Year,' while aespa and ENHYPEN also received multiple accolades. The event highlighted the vibrant K-POP scene and was hosted by Jung Hyun-moo and Sooyoung from Girls' Generation.
The 2025 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS will be broadcast live on Niconico on September 20, 2025, from 5 PM to 11:30 PM JST, showcasing performances from 15 K-POP artists. A Japanese-subtitled encore will air on October 25. The event includes a red carpet and awards ceremony, with premium access required for certain segments.
On the morning of the 18th, AHOF departed through Incheon International Airport to Macau for the 2025 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS (TMA), set to take place on September 20 at the Macao Outdoor Performance Venue. Additionally, Zuan from AHOF has paused activities just two months after debut, leaving the group with eight members.
AHOF's member Zuan has paused all activities due to health issues, as advised by medical professionals. Despite his desire to continue for fans, the agency prioritizes his health and has decided he should focus on recovery. Starting today, AHOF will temporarily operate with 8 members: Steven, So Jungwoo, Cha Eungi, Zhang Shuai Bo, Park Han, JL, Park Ju Won, and Daisuke.
