I. Introduction

One of the most fascinating aspects of the K-pop industry is the continuous increase in the number of K-pop groups debuting every year. In 2025, the number of groups is larger than ever, and this trend is not expected to slow down. Entertainment companies are consistently introducing new groups, each with their unique concept and style, contributing to the richness and diversity of the K-pop landscape. These groups, ranging from boy bands and girl groups to co-ed units, are part of a broader ecosystem that thrives on talent, competition, and fan engagement.

This blog will explore the current landscape of K-pop in 2025, shedding light on the total number of K-pop groups active today and the reasons behind the industry's rapid growth. We will examine how K-pop groups are formed, what drives their success, and what the future holds for the industry. Whether you are a long-time fan or new to the K-pop scene, this blog will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how many K-pop groups exist in 2025 and why their numbers continue to rise.

II. What Makes K-pop Groups So Popular?

K-pop's rise from a domestic music genre in South Korea to a global cultural force has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over the past two decades, K-pop groups have garnered an international following, becoming icons not just for their music, but for their ability to connect with fans on a deeper cultural and emotional level. The genre’s ability to transcend language barriers, combined with its highly produced performances and catchy tunes, has played a major role in its rapid global expansion. K-pop is no longer confined to the Korean Peninsula; it has cemented its place in mainstream global music culture, with groups regularly charting in various international markets.

Key Characteristics of K-pop Groups That Set Them Apart

K-pop groups are known for their multi-faceted approach to entertainment, setting them apart from other music genres around the world. Some of the key features include:

1. Diverse Talent: Members of K-pop groups are often trained in multiple disciplines, including singing, dancing, acting, and even variety show hosting. This versatility makes K-pop groups appealing across a wide range of entertainment forms, with idols often making appearances on TV shows, movies, and advertisements.
2. Visual Appeal and Performance: K-pop performances are carefully choreographed, showcasing incredible synchronization, powerful stage presence, and visual artistry. K-pop groups use elaborate music videos and stunning stage designs that emphasize strong visuals and storytelling, creating an immersive experience for fans.
3. Concepts and Themes: K-pop groups often debut with a unique concept or theme that defines their image. These concepts range from edgy and rebellious to sweet and cute, allowing groups to carve out their identity and resonate with different fanbases. Concepts evolve over time, keeping fans engaged as they witness the group’s growth and transformation.
4. Production Quality: High-budget production values are a hallmark of K-pop. From music videos to live shows, the quality of visuals, sound, and choreography is top-tier, providing an impressive viewing experience that enhances the appeal of the groups.

The Significance of K-pop Fandoms

The fandom culture in K-pop is unlike anything seen in other genres of music. These dedicated fan communities are a driving force behind the success and global expansion of K-pop groups. Here are some reasons why K-pop fandoms are so important:

1. Fan Loyalty: K-pop fandoms, often called "stans," are known for their unwavering loyalty to their idols. Fans show support through voting in music show polls, streaming songs, buying albums, and attending concerts. They also engage in community-driven activities, such as trending hashtags on social media to promote their favorite groups.
2. Global Unity: K-pop fans are a global network that unites people from different cultures and languages. This sense of unity is a big reason why K-pop has become so popular worldwide. The dedication of K-pop fans often transcends national borders, creating a shared, collective experience that strengthens the group’s popularity across continents.
3. Emotional Connection: The relationship between K-pop idols and their fans is often described as more personal than in many Western music industries. Idols regularly communicate with their fans through social media, fan meetings, and live broadcasts, creating a sense of closeness. The members’ hard work, struggles, and triumphs are often openly shared, and fans feel like they are part of the idols' journey.
4. Fan Projects and Support: Fandoms often organize fan projects to support their idols, such as charity donations, fan events, or even birthday celebrations for group members. These gestures not only strengthen the bond between fans and idols but also promote the group’s image and create a sense of collective achievement.

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III. How Many K-pop Groups Are There in 2025?

The K-pop industry has seen explosive growth over the years, with new groups debuting every year. As of 2025, the number of K-pop groups continues to rise, reflecting the genre’s global popularity and the increasing demand for fresh talent. While there is no exact figure due to the constant formation and disbandment of groups, estimates suggest that there are hundreds of active K-pop groups currently, spanning across different generations of K-pop.

Current Statistics on the Number of K-pop Groups in the Industry

In 2025, the K-pop industry is home to a vast number of groups, with active boy groups, girl groups, and co-ed groups. With the rise of both major companies and independent artists, the number is expected to surpass 300-400 active groups in total. These groups vary in size, concept, and genre, ranging from traditional pop to experimental blends of hip-hop, R&B, EDM, and more.

• Boy Groups: Boy groups dominate the K-pop industry, with major groups like BTS, EXO, Stray Kids, and ATEEZ maintaining international success. As of 2025, there are over 100 boy groups actively promoting, each catering to a variety of sub-genres within K-pop.
• Girl Groups: Girl groups are equally significant, with top groups like BLACKPINK, TWICE, Red Velvet, and ITZY still leading the charge. However, the number of active girl groups in 2025 is slightly lower than boy groups, but still substantial, with over 70-100 girl groups continuing to make waves.
• Co-ed Groups: Co-ed groups, which feature both male and female members, remain less common in the K-pop scene but are gaining attention. Groups like KARD and XYLID have shown that there is demand for this unique group format. There are currently 10-20 co-ed groups active in the industry.

Breakdown of Active K-pop Groups

The active K-pop groups in 2025 can be broken down into the following categories:

1. Boy Groups (100+): These groups are at the forefront of K-pop, with major players like BTS, SEVENTEEN, and NCT continuing to gain global recognition. These groups vary in size, ranging from the smaller 4-5 member groups to larger groups with 13-20 members. Boy groups tend to have dedicated fanbases known for their fandom loyalty and global outreach.
2. Girl Groups (70-100): Girl groups like BLACKPINK, TWICE, Red Velvet, and newer groups like New Jeans and LE SSERAFIM have an enormous fan following. These groups are known for their intricate choreography, strong vocal performances, and striking visuals. With more companies entering the K-pop scene, the number of girl groups continues to rise.
3. Co-ed Groups (10-20): Co-ed groups, which have a mix of male and female idols, are not as prevalent but still carve out a niche market. They tend to offer something different, mixing styles and genres, appealing to fans who enjoy diversity in their K-pop experience. Co-ed groups often explore a variety of concepts and musical styles, from hip-hop to pop to EDM.

The Role of Smaller Entertainment Companies in Creating New Groups

While the big three entertainment companies—SM Entertainment, YG Entertainment, and JYP Entertainment—still produce the majority of the top K-pop groups, smaller entertainment companies have played a significant role in diversifying and expanding the K-pop scene. These companies have introduced a variety of independent and rookie groups, contributing to the growing number of active K-pop groups.

• Independent Labels: Smaller labels like Big Hit Entertainment (which now manages HYBE Corporation), Pledis Entertainment, and FNC Entertainment have been launching new groups with unique concepts that appeal to a global audience. These labels often bring fresh, unconventional ideas to the K-pop industry, offering more variety to the fandom.
• Survival Shows: The rise of popular survival reality shows such as Produce 101, K-pop Star, and Queendom has also contributed to the formation of new groups. These shows select talented trainees from different backgrounds and form groups that are often given a platform to debut and grow in the industry. Many up-and-coming groups have gained fame through such shows, further boosting the number of active groups.
• Rising Star Companies: Newer and smaller entertainment companies, including Stone Music Entertainment, MNH Entertainment, and Jellyfish Entertainment, continue to debut groups regularly. These smaller companies are often able to take more risks with group concepts and are starting to carve out a niche for themselves in the competitive K-pop market.

IV. Key Factors Behind the Growing Number of K-pop Groups

The explosive growth of K-pop groups over the past few years can be attributed to several key factors that have helped shape and expand the industry. From the international success of K-pop to the training systems that develop top-tier talent, the factors behind the increasing number of K-pop groups are multifaceted. Additionally, the rise of sub-units, solo projects, and collaborations have also played a significant role in expanding the scope and diversity of the K-pop landscape.

1. The Impact of K-pop’s International Success on the Growth of Groups

K-pop’s meteoric rise on the global stage has had a profound impact on the number of new groups forming in South Korea and beyond. As K-pop gained popularity in Western markets, Asia, and other parts of the world, the demand for fresh talent skyrocketed, prompting entertainment companies to debut new groups regularly.

• Global Fanbase: The rise of massive fanbases in countries like the United States, Japan, China, and Southeast Asia has created a global market for K-pop music and idols. This global reach has encouraged companies to form more groups to cater to this expanding audience, which in turn fosters more competition and innovation in the industry.
• Cross-Cultural Collaborations: K-pop groups are often collaborating with international artists and appearing on global platforms like Billboard, The Ellen Show, and major award shows, which brings them exposure to new audiences. This trend of international success has paved the way for even more K-pop groups to emerge, as labels strive to capitalize on this newfound global popularity.

2. The Influence of K-pop Training Systems and Idol Development

One of the most important elements of K-pop’s rapid expansion is the idol training system, which is integral to the development of every K-pop artist. K-pop trainees typically undergo years of rigorous training before they debut, learning everything from singing, dancing, acting, to mastering foreign languages. This extensive development process has paved the way for a consistent influx of new talent into the industry.

• Highly Structured Training Programs: K-pop idols are nurtured within highly structured training systems that help them develop their skills to a professional level, ensuring that each group can consistently produce high-quality music and performances. As the demand for K-pop grows, more entertainment companies are focusing on cultivating new groups through their specialized training systems.
• Talent Pool Expansion: The trainee system also enables smaller entertainment companies to discover and debut new groups without the need for large-scale auditions or talent searches. Since the system is so established, it becomes easier for companies to assemble groups with unique skills and characteristics that appeal to a diverse audience.
• Competitive Edge: K-pop’s competitive nature—both among idols and companies—pushes entertainment labels to consistently form new groups to stay ahead of the market trends. The continual influx of talent ensures that the industry remains dynamic and fresh, with new faces and concepts introduced regularly.

3. The Rise of Sub-units, Solo Projects, and Collaborative Groups

The explosion of sub-units, solo projects, and collaborative groups has also contributed to the growing number of K-pop groups in the industry. These alternative formats provide artists with more opportunities to showcase their individual talents, while still maintaining their position within the larger group.

• Sub-units: Many K-pop groups have created sub-units—smaller units within the main group that focus on different musical styles or concepts. These sub-units often explore a more niche genre or style, attracting a different audience segment while also showcasing the individual talents of specific members. For instance, EXO-CBX (EXO’s sub-unit) and Red Velvet - Irene & Seulgi have successfully added depth and diversity to their respective groups. Sub-units allow companies to create new, smaller-scale projects without the need to form completely new groups.
• Solo Projects: K-pop idols often pursue solo projects alongside their group activities. Solo releases from members of groups like BTS’s Jin, EXO’s Baekhyun, and TWICE’s Nayeon have gained massive popularity. These projects further expand the scope of the K-pop industry, as solo careers often lead to more fans and additional promotional content. The rise of solo endeavors has contributed to a broader variety of content being released by the same idol under different formats.
• Collaborative Groups: The increasing trend of collaborations—whether between K-pop idols from different groups or between K-pop artists and international musicians—has also resulted in the formation of collaborative groups. These collaborations can be a one-off project or a long-term partnership, but they offer new dynamics and musical experiences to fans. The famous collaboration between BTS and Halsey on “Boy With Luv” or the KARD co-ed group have been prime examples of this expanding trend.

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V. How Do K-pop Groups Form?

The formation of a K-pop group is a meticulous and highly structured process that involves auditions, intensive training, and the strategic direction of entertainment companies. From the selection of trainees to the final debut, the formation of K-pop groups is a well-calculated procedure designed to create not only talented performers but also marketable idols who can captivate both domestic and international audiences.

1. The Audition and Training Process of K-pop Idols

The journey of a K-pop idol typically begins at one of the many auditions held by entertainment companies, where hopeful candidates are scouted for their talents in singing, dancing, and sometimes acting or modeling. These auditions are open to the public, allowing trainees from all over the world to apply. Some companies even hold global auditions to find talent beyond South Korea’s borders, which has become a key factor in the international appeal of K-pop.

• Audition Stage: Aspiring idols participate in auditions where they showcase their skills, with a significant focus on singing, dancing, and charisma. Those who pass the auditions are then offered training contracts with entertainment companies, where they are expected to hone their skills and prepare for a possible debut.
• Training System: Once accepted, trainees undergo rigorous training programs, often lasting several years. They are taught not only how to sing and dance but also how to develop their personal brands and interact with fans. Training is extremely competitive, with only a few trainees eventually making it to the debut stage. The extensive training system ensures that every K-pop group is filled with highly skilled and versatile performers.
• Training for Global Appeal: In addition to developing singing and dancing skills, language training is also crucial for K-pop idols. Many K-pop idols are taught multiple languages—such as English, Japanese, and Chinese—so they can communicate effectively with international audiences. This global training strategy plays a key role in making the groups appealing to fans across the world.

2. The Role of Entertainment Companies in Group Formation

The entertainment companies play a significant role in shaping K-pop groups by managing the entire process from auditions to the debut stage. Major companies such as SM Entertainment, JYP Entertainment, YG Entertainment, and Big Hit Entertainment (HYBE) have established training systems and resources to scout and nurture young talent.

• Strategic Group Formation: Entertainment companies often form groups with a particular concept in mind, aligning with specific target audiences and the current trends in K-pop music. For instance, companies may create groups with different member roles such as leader, lead vocalist, main dancer, or rapper, ensuring that each group has a balanced dynamic.
• Branding and Marketability: K-pop idols are not just musicians; they are brands. The companies ensure that the group’s image, music style, and public persona are carefully crafted to suit market demands. From fashion choices to social media presence, every aspect of a K-pop group's branding is designed to enhance its appeal, both locally and internationally. Companies frequently strategize the debut of a group based on market analysis to ensure the group’s success.
• Fan Engagement: Entertainment companies also play a major role in creating strong fanbases for their groups. From interactive social media campaigns to fan meetings and exclusive content, companies understand that a group’s success often depends on maintaining a loyal and engaged following. This fan engagement is a significant part of K-pop group formation as it boosts their popularity and helps ensure long-term success.

3. How K-pop Groups Are Strategically Designed to Appeal to Global Audiences

In today’s globalized entertainment landscape, K-pop groups are no longer just catering to South Korean audiences; they are being designed for global appeal. This involves strategic planning on the part of entertainment companies to ensure that the group has elements that resonate with fans across different cultures and regions.

• Multinational Members: Many K-pop groups now include members from various countries, such as China, Thailand, the United States, Japan, and even Europe. This diversity allows groups to connect with a global audience and breaks the language and cultural barriers that might exist in traditional pop music groups.
• Music and Concept Diversity: The music and concepts of K-pop groups are often internationally influenced, incorporating popular elements from different genres like hip hop, EDM, R&B, and pop. The music is designed to appeal not only to South Korean fans but also to audiences worldwide. For instance, BTS incorporated English lyrics into several of their songs, which allowed them to reach an even wider international audience.
• Global Promotion: The global expansion of K-pop is driven by the promotion strategies used by the companies. K-pop groups often participate in international music festivals, award shows, and appear on global media outlets like The Ellen Show, Jimmy Fallon, and Billboard. These promotional strategies increase the group’s visibility and solidify their international fanbases.
• Engaging with International Platforms: Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Twitter are essential tools for promoting K-pop groups internationally. Entertainment companies actively use these platforms to share music videos, behind-the-scenes content, and live broadcasts, helping K-pop groups connect with fans from all over the world.

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VI. Notable K-pop Groups in 2025

As of 2025, K-pop continues to dominate the global music scene, with an increasing number of both established groups and emerging stars making their mark in the industry. From the legendary acts that paved the way for K-pop's global success to newly debuted groups pushing the boundaries of the genre, the K-pop landscape remains dynamic and ever-evolving. Below is an overview of some of the most popular and influential K-pop groups in 2025, spanning across different generations of K-pop.

1. Established K-pop Groups Leading the Scene

These groups have been around for several years, creating a legacy that solidifies their position in the K-pop industry. They’ve amassed significant fanbases, dominated charts, and continue to influence both the local and international K-pop scene.

• BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan): Even in 2025, BTS remains at the forefront of the K-pop industry. Despite some members pursuing solo projects, BTS continues to release music, and their influence as global icons is undeniable. Their ability to blend genres and tackle meaningful social issues has kept them relevant and adored worldwide.
• EXO: EXO’s consistent presence in the K-pop world has made them a staple in the industry. Known for their strong vocal performances and impressive choreography, EXO continues to be one of the most influential boy groups. Their diverse talents in music, acting, and variety shows ensure their enduring popularity.
• BLACKPINK: As one of the top girl groups in K-pop, BLACKPINK has achieved global recognition through their chart-topping hits and collaborations with Western artists. Their powerful performances and stylish image keep them at the top of their game, continuing to captivate international audiences in 2025.
• Twice: With their infectious music, vibrant personalities, and mass appeal, Twice has firmly established themselves as one of the leading girl groups in K-pop. Their catchy songs and impressive discography ensure that they remain popular across Asia and beyond, particularly in Japan.

2. Rising Stars in K-pop: New Groups Making Waves in 2025

While established groups dominate the scene, there are also a number of newer K-pop groups that have gained significant attention in recent years and are on the rise in 2025.

• Stray Kids: Known for their energetic performances, experimental sound, and strong involvement in producing their own music, Stray Kids have become a force to be reckoned with. Their ability to blend electronic, hip hop, and rock influences has earned them a dedicated following and recognition as one of the top boy groups in 2025.
• ATEEZ: Since their debut, ATEEZ has quickly grown in popularity with their high-energy performances and unique concepts. Their loyal international fanbase, known as ATINY, has propelled them to success, and their popularity only continues to grow.
• ITZY: This girl group has quickly made a name for themselves with their empowering themes of self-confidence and individualism. Their unique blend of pop and hip hop, paired with their high-energy choreography, continues to earn them a spot among the top groups of 2025.
• TXT (Tomorrow X Together): TXT has rapidly risen to prominence thanks to their innovative concepts, strong vocal performances, and youthful charm. As part of the HYBE family alongside BTS, they continue to gain recognition with their creative and ever-evolving music.

3. Noteworthy K-pop Groups Across Different Generations

K-pop’s growth over the years has given rise to different generations of idols. While newer groups are making waves in 2025, it’s important to acknowledge the legacy left behind by groups from earlier generations, whose influence still impacts K-pop today.

• 2nd Generation Groups:
  
  • Super Junior: One of the pioneering boy bands of the 2nd generation, Super Junior’s success paved the way for K-pop’s international reach. Despite being in the industry for over a decade, they continue to remain active with new music and tours.
  • Girls' Generation (SNSD): Known as one of the most iconic K-pop girl groups, Girls' Generation remains an integral part of the history of K-pop. Their impact on global K-pop fandoms still resonates, especially through their occasional reunions and legacy music releases.
• 3rd Generation Groups:
  
  • Seventeen: Known for their strong self-producing abilities and dynamic performances, Seventeen remains an influential force in K-pop. Their highly organized unit system and experimental music style have earned them a global following.
  • Red Velvet: Known for their versatility in blending various musical genres, Red Velvet continues to maintain a loyal fanbase and enjoys global recognition. Their ability to seamlessly switch between upbeat pop songs and more mature concepts has ensured their lasting success.

4. Emerging Trends in K-pop Groups

As the K-pop industry continues to grow and evolve, new trends are emerging that shape how groups form and perform. These trends include:

• Global Members: More groups are incorporating international members, which helps increase the group’s appeal in their home countries and overseas markets. This trend is being seen with groups like ATEEZ, Stray Kids, and NCT, all of which have diverse lineups that appeal to fans worldwide.
• Collaborations with Western Artists: K-pop groups increasingly collaborate with Western artists, further cementing the global nature of K-pop. These collaborations help K-pop groups gain even more international exposure and showcase their versatility.
• Digital Platforms and Social Media: The use of TikTok, YouTube, and other social media platforms to promote K-pop groups continues to grow. K-pop companies are strategically using these platforms to engage with global audiences, release content, and connect with fans in real-time.

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VII. The Future of K-pop Groups

As the K-pop industry continues to expand and evolve, it’s exciting to imagine where it will go in the coming years. With new groups debuting regularly and a growing global audience, the future of K-pop is full of potential. Below are key trends and expectations that will shape K-pop groups in the future:

1. Evolving Trends in K-pop Group Formations

The way K-pop groups are formed has changed significantly over the years, and this evolution is set to continue.

• Global Auditions and Diverse Membership: As K-pop's international appeal grows, we can expect more global auditions for new groups, leading to even more diverse lineups. Entertainment companies will continue seeking talented individuals from around the world to cater to fans across various regions. This diversity helps broaden the group’s fanbase, offering a more relatable and global appeal.
• More Sub-Units and Collaborations: The trend of sub-units within K-pop groups, where smaller factions of the group focus on specific genres or concepts, is expected to grow. Groups may also collaborate more frequently with artists from different genres, expanding their musical range and connecting with different audiences.
• Emphasis on Virtual and Digital Platforms: With the rise of virtual concerts and digital fan engagement, future K-pop groups will likely prioritize online platforms for promotion. Virtual groups or the inclusion of AI idols could become more common as technology continues to advance, adding a futuristic element to the K-pop world.

2. Growth of the K-pop Industry Leading to More Groups

The growth of the K-pop industry is inevitable, and this will likely result in more groups emerging in the coming years. As global demand for K-pop continues to rise, entertainment companies will look to create more groups to meet this demand.

• New Entertainment Companies Entering the Market: As K-pop becomes a global industry, smaller entertainment companies will have more opportunities to debut groups. The increased interest in K-pop from all corners of the world will result in more independent labels and even some crossover collaborations between agencies.
• Emerging Markets and Regional Focus: In the future, more K-pop groups may be tailored for specific regional markets outside of South Korea. With rising interest from Southeast Asia, Europe, and South America, there may be K-pop groups formed with specific cultural influences in mind to appeal to these audiences while maintaining their K-pop roots.
• Focus on Niche Concepts: K-pop has always been known for its ability to blend different genres and experiment with fresh concepts. In the future, we could see groups experimenting with even more niche genres, such as incorporating traditional music or genre-bending styles into their work. This constant reinvention keeps the K-pop scene dynamic and appealing to both fans and newcomers.

3. Expectations for New K-pop Groups to Shape the Industry

Looking ahead, we can expect new K-pop groups to bring fresh energy and innovation to the industry. Several trends are likely to define the next generation of K-pop idols.

• Greater Cultural Exchange and Hybrid Idols: As the K-pop industry becomes more global, new groups will embrace greater cultural exchange, blending musical traditions and styles from around the world. Expect more groups featuring members from various countries, further contributing to K-pop's global appeal.
• Focus on Social Issues and Messages: K-pop idols have already begun addressing significant issues like mental health, equality, and societal problems through their music. The future of K-pop groups will likely involve more socially-conscious music that addresses global issues while maintaining entertainment value. These groups will use their platform to influence positive change on a global scale.
• Advanced Fan Interaction: The rise of technology means future K-pop groups will have even closer relationships with their fans. Virtual reality concerts, personalized fan interactions through social media platforms, and exclusive online content will likely become even more common, helping to build stronger bonds between idols and their fanbases.
• Blurring the Lines Between Art and Technology: As digital and physical worlds continue to merge, we could see the rise of augmented reality (AR) and AI-generated groups. While this might sound futuristic, K-pop has always been a genre at the forefront of technology, and its seamless integration with tech could lead to an entirely new wave of virtual idols.

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VIII. Conclusion

In 2025, the K-pop industry is thriving, with hundreds of active groups across various genres, making it one of the most dynamic and expansive music industries in the world. The number of K-pop groups continues to grow, fueled by the genre's global popularity and the increasing interest from fans worldwide. As the industry evolves, we can expect even more talented idols, unique group formations, and groundbreaking music that will shape the future of K-pop.

The expansion of K-pop groups is a testament to the genre’s success and its ability to adapt to the ever-changing music landscape. Whether it’s through innovative training systems, collaborations across borders, or the rise of new entertainment companies, the possibilities for future K-pop groups are limitless.

Stay tuned for new debuts and follow the latest trends in K-pop to keep up with this exciting industry. We’d love to hear from you—share your thoughts on K-pop group formations, your favorite groups, and what you expect from the next generation of idols in the comments below!

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