While many think of K-pop as synonymous with idol groups, there's a rich tapestry of genres within Korean music. One often overlooked but exceptional segment is K-bands. Despite the dominance of catchy pop tunes, these bands offer a unique blend of authenticity and melody.

Several K-bands from the 2nd and 3rd generation, like FTISLAND, CNBLUE, TRAX, DAY6, N.Flying, and The Rose, have left an indelible mark on the industry. Now, the 4th generation brings a fresh set of K-bands with their own distinctive charms.

SURL

A quartet that began as high-school friends and made their indie debut in 2018. Later joining Happy Robot Records in 2019, SURL's music is characterized by its soothing, lazy afternoon vibe. They recently clinched the 2nd spot in the MNet band survival show, Great Seoul Invasion. Recommended tracks include "Snow", "Dry Flower", and "Hot Air Balloon".

Hoppipolla

Named after a renowned Icelandic song, this band gained recognition as winners of the JTBC band survival show, Superband. They debuted in 2019, delivering profoundly emotional music. Following their contract's expiration in 2021, the members continue to engage in solo projects. Songs like "Enough", "Let's!", and "Your Ocean" are must-listens.

ONEWE

Formerly known as M.A.S. 0094, they re-debuted under RBW Entertainment in 2019. With an upbeat sound, their tracks could fit seamlessly into any film or drama. Tracks like "Rain to Be", "Regulus", and "End of Spring" stand out.

LUCY

Participants of Superband, they debuted in 2020 under Mystic Story. Their uplifting, violin-centric music speaks of youth and everyday life. Tracks like "Flowering", "PLAY", and "I Got U" are noteworthy.

Rolling Quartz

The one and only all-female band in 4th generation. Formed in 2019, originally a two separate bands named "Rolling Girlz" and "Rose Quartz", but later they merged into a single group named "Rolling Quartz". The band consists of lead vocalist and keyboardist Jayoung, guitarists Iree and Hyunjung, bassist Arem, and drummer Yeongeun. During their early pre-debut era, they usually performed primarily in clubs and festivals, especially in Hongdae region of Seoul. They also uploaded some live cover on their official YouTube channel. The band officially debuted on December 30, 2020 with the single "Blaze" under Rolling Star Entertainment. Some recommendations of their songs include "Blaze", "Delight", and "Holler".

YUDABINBAND

A five-member co-ed indie-pop band formed in 2021. They debuted on March 9 with single "LETTER". Consists of Yu Dabin (vocals, acoustic guitar), Lee Junghyun (electric guitar), Cho Youngyun (bass), Lee Sangwoon (drums), and Yoo Myeongjong/YOU (keyboard). The band simply named after their main singer, Yu Dabin. Their music mainly tells about hopes and dreams with pretty chilling music. Some recommendations of their songs include "LETTER", "Over the Dream", and "Voyage". In 2022, they participated on MNet band survival show Great Seoul Invasion and finished in 3rd place. They later moved to MPMG Music's sub-label, Faction A Like in 2023.

TOUCHED

A five-member co-ed indie-rock band consisting of vocalist and guitarist Yunmin, drummer Kim Seungbin, bassist John B. Kim, electric guitarist D.on, and keyboardist Chae Dohyeon. They debuted with a digital single "The Dawn Star" on January 20, 2021. The band has so many achievements even before debuting. Such as winning a grand prize at the Yoo Jae Ha Music Contest, winner of the music competition 2021 Rising Star and Indiestance 2021, and recently also won the MNet band survival show Great Seoul Invasion in 2022. They later moved to MPMG Music's sub-label, Faction A Like and released the EP "Yellow Supernova Remnant" in 2023. Some recommendations of their songs include "The Dawn Star", "Hi Bully", and "Night View".

Xdinary Heroes

One of the popular idol bands formed under JYP Entertainment in 2021. Made up of six members: Gunil (leader, drums), Jungsu (vocals, keyboard), Gaon (guitar, vocals), O.de (synthesizer, rap), Junhan (guitar), and Jooyeon (vocals, bass). Xdinary Heroes means "everyone can be the heroes". Compared with their senior DAY6 who usually expresses deep feeling in their music, their music is notably upbeat and rock. They officially debuted with a digital single, "Happy Death Day" on December 6, 2021. In 2022, the band won two awards in MAMA in the categories Best New Male Artist and Best Band Performance for "Happy Death Day". Some recommendations of their songs include "Test Me", "Freakin' Bad", and "Good Enough".

9001 (Ninety O-One)

Last but not least 9001 is a four-piece rock band made up of Jo Gon (leader, vocals, guitar), Won Woo (keyboard), Ui Geon (drums), and Ju Won (bass). They originally known as name "Oyster", and later they re-debuted in 2022 under Amuse Entertainment with a single album "Plastic Love" released on January 4. They also joined several band survival shows, such as JTBC Superband (as Oyster), MBC Asian Top Band, and MNet Great Seoul Invasion. Some recommendations of their songs including "Zinnia", "Mannequin", and "Upside Down".

It's evident that while K-bands might not have the spotlight like their idol counterparts, their talent and diversity cannot be ignored. Dive into this generation's gems, and discover a new side of K-music. Do share your thoughts on any bands you're familiar with!