In the fiercely competitive music industry of the 5th generation idol groups, a wave of '96-born idols' is blowing in.
From BLACKPINK's Jennie, who has started her solo career, to Seventeen's Hoshi and Woozi, who have formed a new unit group, and NCT's Doyoung, who has expanded his territory into musicals, the return of these talented 'SBN (senior)' idols is delighting fans.
First, Jennie will release her first full album 'Ruby' on March 7, continuing her reputation as a 'global top star.' The response to the pre-released tracks has already been enthusiastic. 'Love Hangover (feat. Dominic Fike)' and 'Mantra' have entered the US Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Official Singles Chart Top 100, and the most recently released 'Extra L (Feat. Doechii)' has also topped YouTube's trending music videos, showcasing her popularity.
Jennie's global status is also confirmed in the tracklist. Global pop stars such as Doechii, Dominic Fike, Dua Lipa, FKJ, and Kali Uchis have contributed to her new album. Along with her full-fledged solo activities, Jennie received the 'Global Force Award' at Billboard’s Women in Music 2025. In the second half of the year, she is also set to embark on a BLACKPINK world tour in major stadiums across North America, Europe, and Japan.
Seventeen's same-age friends Hoshi and Woozi will make their debut with their single 'BEAM' on March 10. This marks the formation of a duo after 7 years and 4 months since the track 'Shoot Me' from Seventeen's 2nd full album. The two have expressed their unique creativity and self-love, which they have built through challenges since their trainee days, in various ways.
Hoshi and Woozi, the two leaders of Seventeen's unique unit, are expected to showcase their distinctive music through 'BEAM' and step up as representatives of the '96 line.' As the leader of the performance team, Hoshi leads the 'sharp choreography,' while Woozi, as the leader of the vocal team and album producer, holds the key to Seventeen's music. Their meeting alone draws anticipation. While they exchange playful banter like real friends during group activities, the focus is on what kind of synergy these two captains will show through this new song.
NCT member Doyoung, who is currently active as the main character Gwynplaine in the musical 'The Man Who Laughs,' cannot be overlooked among the '96-born idols.' He has gained recognition for his potential by standing shoulder to shoulder with notable actors such as Park Eun-tae, Lee Seok-hoon, and Kyuhyun in 'The Man Who Laughs.' Reviews on ticket booking sites include comments like "Gwynplaine himself," "more developed than before," "great performance and singing skills," and "Doyoung's immersion is incredible."
Doyoung made his musical debut in 2021 with 'Marie Antoinette.' At that time, he drew attention for his ability to seamlessly transition between singing and acting while portraying the charming nobleman Ferzen. Additionally, last year, he released his first full album 'Foam of Youth,' charting all tracks, including the title song, on Melon's Top 100 on the first day, proving his strength as a solo artist.
In this way, '96-born artists are illuminating the music industry with their individuality and colors. From Jennie's global solo activities to Hoshi X Woozi's special unit activities, and Doyoung's musical endeavors, the movements of the '96-born idols' who will shine in 2025 are drawing attention.
[Geum Bitna, MK Sports Reporter]
