As 2025 draws to a close, it stands out as a year filled with an unusually high number of debuts from K-pop rookies. This momentum shows no signs of slowing in 2026. In focus are the so-called “Big 4” agencies HYBE, SM Entertainment, JYP Entertainment and YG Entertainment, each moving behind the scenes with their own plans to introduce the next generation of idols.
HYBE is expected to debut two girl groups in 2026. The first is a Korea-based girl group currently in preparation. While nothing has been officially confirmed, industry observers speculate that the group could come from Pledis or Source Music. For now, the agency is keeping details tightly under wraps. In the second half of the year, HYBE plans to launch a four-member girl group in the United States. Building on the success of KATEYEwhich debuted in collaboration with Geffen Records, HYBE collaborates once again with the US label. Lexie, Samara and Emily who didn’t make it to the finals KATEYE The lineup has reportedly been confirmed, with an additional member to be selected before the group officially debuts.
SM Entertainment, meanwhile, is focusing on a new boy group. During “SMTOWN LIVE 2025“, introduced the company SMTR25a multinational team of male trainees, and subsequently opened official social media accounts for the project. SM also announced a reality program produced by Egg Is Coming, titled Answer: high schoolwhich will air in the first half of the year. According to statements made during an August 2025 conference call, SM plans to debut two to three teams SMTR25with at least one group started first. However, with undisclosed trainees and some departures from the lineup, the final configuration remains subject to change.
YG Entertainment is also preparing a new boy group. In May 2025, executive producer Yang Hyun Suk revealed that two boy groups and two girl groups were in development, underlining his desire to debut at least one boy group in the next year. While concrete information about the boy group remains scarce, YG has shared more visible hints about a future girl group tentatively titled “Next Monster,” posting trainee videos of Evelli and Chanya. That said, Yang said the company plans to focus on BABYMONSTER’s growth until the end of next year, suggesting the girl group’s debut could come later. As always with YG, timing may change depending on internal priorities.
JYP Entertainment has yet to clearly announce plans for a new debut group. However, speculation is growing. Considering that boy group KickFlip debuted last year and that the agency’s newest girl group, NMIXX, debuted in 2022, many believe that JYP’s next launch will likely be a girl group. The company’s recent registration of new trademarks has further fueled rumors of an imminent debut. However, some analysts suggest that these brands could go to artists from JYP’s subsidiary INNIT Entertainment, leaving the situation open for now.
As the Year of the Red Horse begins, all eyes are on the Big 4’s next moves. With fans around the world watching closely, 2026 could usher in the rookie groups set to lead K-pop into its next era.
Sources: Naver
