The South Korean music industry is known to have such competitive companies, fighting for the top spot that there was even a time that the realm was reigned by the Big 3, namely, JYP Entertainment, YG Entertainment, and SM Entertainment. As time went by, there have been changes in the ranking, and more agencies have gained attention due to these K-pop groups that helped their company rise.
1. BTS
BTS had a pretty rough start from a small company since they debuted. Being managed by Big Hit Entertainment and Bang Sihyuk's guidance, the group has been getting so much recognition from all around the world that they became the most loved group with their dedication to music and awareness of social issues. Because of their success, the group became the youngest recipients of Order of Cultural Merit at the 2018 Korean Popular Culture & Arts Awards that no other group has ever gotten.
2. MAMAMOO
In March 2010, Kim Jin Woo established the first OEM company, Rainbow Bridge Agency, which trains students who are not trainees with a similar process as the regular entertainment company, such as vocal, dance, acting, language, etc. The company soon rebranded as Rainbow Bridge World, which became the home of MAMAMOO. Due to the massive response from the fans of this incredibly talented group and their success, this has helped RBW Entertainment grow tremendously and even purchased a building for RBW Vietnam.
3. IU
Lee Ji Eun, popularly known as IU, had her fair share of difficulties before she was established as one of the top solo singers in South Korea. When she officially made her debut back in 2008, it took a while for her to garner success until 2010. And so her popularity as a singer and such a fantastic performer made LOEN Entertainment receive massive attention from the K-pop industry into what it is now.
4. Chungha
MNH Entertainment is extremely lucky to have Kim Chungha, who became the first artist to debut under the company. After she departed from IOI, from the first season of Produce 101, Chungha came back as a solo artist. She is now considered as one of the best in Korea through her iconic songs, such as Gotta Go and Snapping. With Chungha's success, MNH has been able to debut a new group, BVNDIT.
5. B1A4
B1A4 also took a steep trail before they were ready to make their debut. They even had rough times where they have to practice under the streetlights because they did not have a proper practice room to prepare for their dances. Since then, the group has achieved great success with their music, allowing WM Entertainment not only to debut new groups. Since then, the group has made a significant breakthrough because of their music, which allowed the agency to debut new groups.
6. GFRIEND
GFRIEND was the only idol group that was under Source Music Entertainment back in 2015. Because of the enormous success most of their songs got, their company was able to expand and grow as they go on. On the most recent news, Source Music Entertainment is now acclaimed by the powerhouse of K-pop, which is Big Hit Labels.
