In the first half of 2023, the K-pop scene has been significantly dominated by girl groups, echoing the trend we observed last year. These female powerhouses have not only taken center stage, but have effectively captured the heart of the public, taking over the Korean digital charts with unyielding force. This meteoric rise of new-generation girl groups like ADOR's NewJeans and Starship Entertainment's IVE has certainly left a resonating impact in the industry, resulting in a tangible shift in the K-pop landscape.

Digital music platforms such as MelOn bear witness to this transformative wave, displaying charts majorly dominated by these girl groups.

However, this doesn't mean that the male groups have been silent. Groups like Seventeen and Stray Kids have taken the international music scene by storm, breaking ground and setting impressive records on the Billboard charts. Their success extends beyond just international recognition, as they've also set all-time records for album sales, reflecting their broad-based appeal. Notably, Seventeen's hit "Super" has demonstrated robust digital performance in Korea, proving their mettle in the domestic market as well.

This notable performance from both female and male groups has ignited a debate among K-netizens, as they discuss and deliberate over who deserves the accolades at this year's biggest music awards. Let's delve into some of their opinions below.

1. [+65, -6]

One thing I'm sure of is that the Seoul Music Awards will either award NCT or aespa.

2. [+64, -31]

If NewJeans doesn't win, it's rigged.

3. [+48, -52]

NewJeans will do an all-kill on the end of the year awards. Nobody can refute this. This year was NewJeans' year.

4. [+46, -12]

I feel like Seventeen will win one (Daesang) too.

5. [+45, -40]

Song of the year: New Jeans Ditto, Artist of the year: IVE, Album of the year: Stray Kids - S-Class. It's gonna be this 100%.

6. [+22, -19]

The Daesang and all the awards given to female idols will go to NewJeans.

The most important awards in any musical celebration and the ones we know as DAESANG, are: Album of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Song of the Year. Putting your own personal biases aside, who do you think deserves to win?