Illit

Illit is a South Korean girl group formed by Belift Lab, a subsidiary of Hybe Corporation, through the 2023 JTBC survival show R U Next?. The show aired from June to September 2023, and the final five-member lineup was announced in September. Originally planned as six members, trainee Youngseo left before debut due to contractual disagreements. The group's name comes from the phrase "I Will Be It," allowing fans to insert any word between "I'll" and "It" to express that one can become anything.

Before their official debut, Illit made a historic appearance at the Acne Studios show during Paris Fashion Week on February 28, 2024, becoming the first K-pop artist to attend such an event prior to debuting. Their debut EP Super Real Me dropped on March 25, 2024, with Hybe chairman Bang Si-hyuk personally producing the album. The lead single "Magnetic" became a massive success, topping South Korea's Circle Digital Chart and entering the Billboard Hot 100 at number 93, a rare feat for a debut group.

As of 2025, Illit continues to build their discography and fanbase. They made their Japanese debut in September 2025 with the single "Toki Yo Tomare." The group is known for their whimsical, mysterious concept and viral TikTok-friendly choreography. They represent the third generation of Hybe girl groups following Le Sserafim and NewJeans. [edit]

Illit was formed through the JTBC survival competition show R U Next?, which aired from June to September 2023. The show featured 22 trainees from Belift Lab competing for a spot in the final lineup. Over the course of 10 episodes, contestants were evaluated through various missions focusing on vocals, dance, and stage presence. The final episode on September 1, 2023, revealed the six winning members: Yunah, Minju, Moka, Wonhee, Iroha, and Youngseo.

However, before the group's official debut, Youngseo left due to contractual disagreements with the agency, leaving Illit as a five-member group. The remaining members continued preparations under the guidance of Hybe chairman Bang Si-hyuk, who took a hands-on role as producer for their debut album. The group made their first public appearance as a complete unit at Paris Fashion Week in February 2024, generating buzz before their music even dropped. [edit]

Illit's music is built around a youthful, whimsical concept that blends pop with dance and R&B elements. Their debut EP Super Real Me established a sound characterized by catchy melodies, bright synths, and infectious rhythms designed for viral TikTok challenges. The lead single "Magnetic" exemplifies this approach with its repetitive hook and easy-to-follow choreography.

Lyrically, the group explores themes of self-discovery, confidence, and the excitement of youth. Their production often features layered vocals and polished arrangements typical of Hybe's signature style. As a rookie group, their musical identity is still evolving, but early indicators point toward a fun, energetic sound that prioritizes accessibility and repeatability. [edit]

Illit's pre-debut appearance at Paris Fashion Week for Acne Studios marked a milestone as the first K-pop artist to attend such an event before officially debuting. This strategic move highlighted the growing intersection between K-pop and high fashion, and set a precedent for future rookie groups.

The viral success of "Magnetic" on TikTok demonstrated the power of social media in launching new acts. Fans worldwide created dance covers and challenges, propelling the song to international charts. Illit also represents the continued expansion of Hybe's label system, following the global dominance of BTS and the success of Le Sserafim and NewJeans. [edit]

Illit's official fandom name is GLLIT, symbolizing the idea that fans help the group shine brightly. The fandom has quickly grown through social media engagement, particularly on TikTok and Instagram, where fans share dance covers and edits. As a newly debuted group, many traditions like fan colors and lightsticks have not yet been established. However, GLLIT members have already organized streaming parties and voting campaigns to support the group's music show wins and award nominations. [edit]

Illit's name is derived from the phrase "I Will Be It," allowing flexibility to insert any word between "I'll" and "It" to convey that one can be anything. Hybe chairman Bang Si-hyuk personally produced their debut album. The group made history by attending Paris Fashion Week for Acne Studios before their official debut. One pre-debut member, Youngseo, left due to contractual disagreements. Illit is the third girl group to debut under Belift Lab and Hybe after Le Sserafim and NewJeans. [edit]