Forbes recently released their annual “30 Under 30 Asia” list, which highlights Asian talents and individuals under the age of 30 that showed notable achievements in their respective industry. Under the “Entertainment and Sports” section, two notable K-pop groups were crowned the title – NewJeans and LE SSERAFIM!

Keep reading to learn more.

Rising Queens of K-Pop: NewJeans & LE SSERAFIM Named in Forbes '30 Under 30 Asia' List

Forbes has officially dropped their coveted "30 Under 30 Asia" list, which pays homage to notable Asians under the age of 30 that excel in their industries. To select who makes the list, Forbes reporters and editors go through thousands of online submissions, while also tapping industry sources and list alumni for potential recommendations.

Candidates are then evaluated by the Forbes Asia team, with the help from a panel of independent, expert judges. Some factors that are taken into account include funding, revenue, social impact, scale, potential, and inventiveness. As stated in the name, all final listers must be 29 years old or younger as of December 31, 2022.

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Under the "Entertainment & Sports" section included two of the most notable names in K-pop at the moment: NewJeans and LE SSERAFIM. Both girl groups are under HYBE Labels and are considered one of the biggest K-pop girl groups worldwide.

NewJeans Hailed as Next Biggest K-Pop Sensation

Forbes praised NewJeans as a group on track to becoming a K-pop sensation! Starting with their debut in July 2022 with "Attention," NewJeans has shown no signs of slowing down. Their most recent single, "OMG," has over 90 million views since its release in January of 2023.

Most recently, NewJeans snagged the "Rookie Artist of the Year" award at the 2023 Golden Disc Awards, as well as the "Hot Rookie Award: at the 2022 THE-K Billboard Awards. With their massive achievements just a year into their debut, NewJeans is expected to reach even higher levels.

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Individually, the members are also proving to be powerhouses. Maknae Hyein currently represents fashion house Louis Vuittion, while Danielle has ties with Burberry. Hanni is the global ambassador for Gucci, while Dior tapped Haerin to represent the brand.

LE SSERAFIM Dubbed One of the Most Popular K-Pop Groups

LE SSERAFIM was applauded for elegantly overcoming a scandal involving one of their former members and rising up to be one of the most popular K-pop groups right now. Debuting in 2022, LE SSERAFIM debuted with the single "FEARLESS," which quickly amassed 150 million views on YouTube. 

The group continues to live up to their name, which is an anagram of "I'm Fearless," releasing confident tracks such as "ANTIFRAGILE" and "UNFORGIVEN." At this year's Golden Disc Awards, LE SSERAFIM took home the "Rookie Artist of the Year" award. Additionally, they won the "Favorite New Artist" trophy at the 2022 MAMA Awards.

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Both NewJeans and LE SSERAFIM are expected to be household names as their careers progress. Congratulations!

Other Korean Names Mentioned in Forbes '30 Under 30 Asia Entertainment & Sports' List

Besides NewJeans and LE SSERAFIM, other Korean talents were given the spotlight by Forbes.

Singer LØREN was praised as an up-and-coming singer-songwriter. Debuting in 2020, LØREN is known for his work as a lyricist in BLACKPINK's debut studio album, "THE ALBUM."

Actresses Lee Yoo Mi, Jung Ji So, and Hye Yoon Kim were also included in the list. For sports, Hwang Dae Heon, Cho Gue Sung, and Choi Min Jeong were given shoutouts. 

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Written by Alexa Lewis