Annyeong Chingus!

The 4th generation groups popularly known as the Gen Z groups, are constantly putting the older generations on their toes and taking over the music industry by storm with their powerful record-breaking performances, diverse musical styles, charisma and charismatic leaders.

We understand the importance of a leader in the Korean music community is one of great importance. They serve not only as performers but representatives, spokespersons, emotional support, strategists, and also motivators of their fellow members as well as their fans. Although young and with limited experience, they are crushing this leadership suitcase with every trick in their arsenal.

Let’s check out some amazing girl group leaders of the 4th gen.

Karina From Aespa

Yo Ji-min, known by her stage name Karina, leads “Aespa”, one of SM Entertainment’s most prominent new-generation girl groups. Aespa is a 4-girl group known for its unique "metaverse" concept, blending real-life members with virtual counterparts. Fun fact; Karina’s stage name is a play on her baptismal name “Katarina”.

Born on October 30, 2000, she is the oldest member of the girl group. Karina serves not just as the leader but also as a main dancer, rapper, and vocalist in the group.

She has also personally worked with top brands such as Lotte Chilsung, YSL, and Prada and has topped South Korea’s Idol Power list a number of times.

After the release of her debut introduction video, her fans and the Korean press adopted the phrase “Karina is a god” praising her multiple performance talents and charisma. Karina is popular for being an attentive leader, always watching out for both the stage and personal well-being of her fellow members.

She is also a member of the SM super group “Got The Beat” which consists of fellow label mates such as Winter from Aespa, Girl’s Generation Taeyeon and Hyoyeon and Red Velvet; Seulgi and Wendy.

Chaewon from LE SSERAFIM

Le SSerafim is a 5-member girl group formed by Source Music and Hype and its leader is Kim Chaewon. She was born on August 1, 2000, making her the second oldest member of the group.

Chaewon started her career as a member of IZ*ONE as a result of coming in 10th place in the popular idol reality competition “Produce 48” in 2018. In 2022, she joined Le sserafim as the 4th member and later became the leader of LE SSERAFIM a new girl group under HYBE and Source Music. Chaewon's past experience in the idol world before becoming the leader of one of the most popular girl groups in the world is one of the qualities that makes her stand out.

Don’t let her small stature and sense of humor fool you because Chaewon is both a master of the girl group craft and a badass leader.

Haewon from Nmixx

Also taking the popularity award in the Gen Z girl group is JYP’s very own Nmixx led by the beautiful Oh Haewon, born on 25th February 2003 and debuted in 2022. Oh Haewon is the leader and main dancer of Nmixx.

When Haewon was asked what she wanted Nmixx to represent, she stated that she wanted a group that resonates with not just local but international K-pop fans as well as those who are new to K-pop.

Despite Nmixx's rigorous experimental music themes and complex performances, Haewon’s warm presence and energy always shine through, making her a natural leader within the group. Although she’s the second oldest in the group, it’s evident that she might be young but definitely ain’t dumb or stupid. (Hope you get the joke?)

Her vocal abilities, stage charisma, visuals, and natural leadership are why we absolutely love her. Fun fact, she’s fluent in English, Korean, and Spanish

Minji from NewJeans

Leading the infamous monster rookie group, New Jeans formed by ADOR, a subsidiary of Hype, is Kim Minji. While NewJeans quickly became popular due to their fresh retro and girl-next-door vibes, Minji got a share of fame before signing up as to the team.

According to reports, Minji started getting offers from agencies since middle school and became a trainee at the age of 13. She was born on May 7th, 2004, and is the oldest member of the group

She later became the face of the Hype Global audition, appearing in BTS’ Permission to Dance before joining New Jeans in 2022. Since then, she has topped K-pop artists' popularity ranks so much that it feels like she lives there. Minji has also personally represented brands such as Chanel Korea, and the Seoul Jazz Festival and even appeared in a South Korean National Election Commission broadcast encouraging younger people to vote. That’s what a leader like Minji can do.

Although the girls are currently experiencing a bit of a rough patch due to ADOR/HYPE controversies, Minji has been able to keep the team together and assure fans that New Jeans remain strong.

Some may have the misconception that leading a musical group is child’s play because these amazing idols make it look so easy. Being responsible for other people can be quite challenging because you will have to put their needs above yours constantly and face lots of criticism in your duties.

We are super proud of these lovely girl-boss leaders and can’t wait to see what else they have in store for us personally and in their various groups. Go girls!