K-pop rookie race, part 1: 3 groups that defined 2026 so far

The K-pop rookie race is entering a new phase as the second half of the year gets underway. Several breakout acts have emerged, but the competition for the spotlight is only starting to heat up as a new wave of debut acts prepares to pull focus. In the first of a two-part series, The Korea Herald highlights three rookie groups that emerged as the biggest success stories of the first half of 2026. Part two, to be published July 3, will turn to four more promising newcomers expected to shine in th