K-pop has become a global phenomenon, and one of its most vibrant and influential parts is the dynamic K-pop girl groups. Over the years, these groups have not only garnered international fame but have also solidified their presence as trendsetters in the music, fashion, and entertainment industries. Today’s K-pop girl groups are known for their catchy music, incredible talent, and striking visuals, each group leaving a mark in their unique way.
The competition is fierce, and with new releases, collaborations, and trends emerging every year, keeping up with the most popular groups can be a task. But whether it’s their viral choreography, record-breaking music videos, or immense fan following, these groups are leading the charge. Here’s a look at the top 15 most popular K-pop girl groups right now, who continue to define the sound of modern K-pop, break records, and capture hearts worldwide.
1.BLACKPINK
BLACKPINK (Image via Getty)
Arguably the most well-known K-pop group internationally, BLACKPINK has become a cultural force. Known for their fierce performances, stunning visuals, and a music style that blends EDM, pop, and hip hop, BLACKPINK’s massive fan base, “Blinks,” spans across the globe. Hits like “DDU-DU DDU-DU” and “How You Like That” have broken numerous records, and they continue to dominate music charts globally. Their collaborations with international artists like Lady Gaga and Selena Gomez have only amplified their popularity.
2.TWICE
TWICE has maintained a strong presence in the K-pop industry since their debut in 2015. Known for their catchy tunes and vibrant concepts, TWICE’s “ONCE” fandom is one of the most dedicated and loyal. Songs like “Fancy” and “Feel Special” showcase their ability to balance youthful charm with powerful performances. With consistent chart-toppers and sold-out tours, TWICE continues to be a staple in the K-pop scene.
3.Red Velvet
With their versatility and ability to seamlessly transition between pop, R&B, and electronic sounds, Red Velvet has earned a reputation as one of the top K-pop girl groups. Known for their distinct “Red” and “Velvet” concepts, they consistently push boundaries with each comeback. Songs like “Psycho” and “Bad Boy” highlight their impressive vocal range and ability to switch between vibrant, energetic sounds and darker, more sophisticated tunes.
4.ITZY
Rising quickly through the ranks of K-pop, ITZY is a group that prides itself on its unique concept of “self-love” and empowerment. Known for their bold, high-energy songs like “WANNABE” and “ICY,” ITZY has become an inspiration for many fans with their catchy music and confident messages. Their powerful performances and distinctive style have made them one of the top contenders in K-pop today.
5.(G)I-DLE
Since their debut in 2018, (G)I-DLE has become one of the most innovative groups in K-pop. Their self-produced tracks and unique concepts set them apart from others in the industry. Known for their music that blends various genres such as pop, hip hop, and EDM, songs like “LATATA” and “Oh My God” have showcased their range. Their creative approach and the individual talents of each member make them a standout group in the K-pop world.
6.AESPA
One of the newer groups on the scene, AESPA, made a significant impact in 2020 with their debut single, “Black Mamba.” Their futuristic concept, which includes virtual avatars called “æ” members, fascinated fans worldwide. AESPA blends advanced technology and high-energy music to create a fresh and innovative take on K-pop. With hits like “Next Level,” AESPA is quickly becoming one of the leading groups of the next generation.
7.MAMAMOO
Known for their powerful vocals and diverse music style, MAMAMOO is one of the most respected and well-established girl groups in K-pop. With hits like “HIP” and “Décalcomanie,” the group has proven its ability to explore various genres and experiment with different sounds. MAMAMOO’s performances are known for their vocal prowess and chemistry, making them a favorite in the K-pop community.
8.IZ*ONE(Disbanded in 2021, but still influential)
Although IZ ONE disbanded in 2021, their impact on K-pop remains undeniable. As a project group formed through the survival show Produce 48, the members of IZ ONE captured hearts with their perfect blend of youthful energy and mature concepts. Songs like “Panorama” and “La Vie en Rose” became huge hits, and their legacy continues to influence new K-pop groups today.
9.STAYC
STAYC (Image via Getty)
STAYC has quickly risen to prominence since their debut in 2020 with the hit song “SO BAD.” Known for their bright and refreshing concepts, the group has gained a significant following with their unique sound and strong vocals. With their songs consistently topping charts and viral dance moves, STAYC is proving that they have what it takes to be K-pop’s next big thing.
10.Lovelyz(Disbanded in 2022, but notable)
Lovelyz, while disbanded in 2022, played an important role in shaping K-pop’s girl group scene. Known for their sweet and innocent concept, Lovelyz was adored for their soft vocals and harmonious music. Their hits like “Ah-Choo” and “Destiny” were beloved by fans and solidified their place in the K-pop history books.
11.EVERGLOW
EVERGLOW is a group known for their fierce and powerful concepts. Songs like “DUN DUN” and “LA DI DA” display their bold image and catchy beats. With a focus on dynamic performances and a high-energy style, EVERGLOW has captured attention for their confident presence in the K-pop world.
12.GFRIEND(Disbanded in 2021)
GFRIEND disbanded in 2021, but the group’s influence on the K-pop industry remains significant. Known for their powerful choreography and consistent chart success, GFRIEND was adored for their elegant performances and distinct sound, which blended pop, rock, and classical elements. Tracks like “Rough” and “Time for the Moon Night” continue to resonate with fans.
13.SECRET NUMBER
With their debut in 2020, SECRET NUMBER quickly gained popularity with their catchy songs and multi-national members. Songs like “Dale Dale” and “Got That Boom” display their ability to blend catchy hooks with a solid mix of musical influences. The group’s growing popularity continues to rise as they solidify their place in the K-pop industry.
14.CIX(Though technically a boy group, often associated with girl group releases)
While CIX is technically a boy group, their collaborations with popular K-pop girl groups often make them a central figure in the conversation about top K-pop acts. Their fluidity in the music scene helps keep them connected to the broader K-pop trend, where girl groups and boy groups often come together to up the genre.
15.fromis_9
fromis_9 (Image via Getty)
Formed through a reality competition show, fromis_9 has steadily gained popularity for their sweet, innocent image and energetic performances. Hits like “Feel Good” and “DKDK” have solidified their position in the K-pop girl group lineup. With their impressive vocal performances and distinct style, fromis_9 continues to gain recognition in the industry.
A New Generation of K-Pop Icons
The world of K-pop continues to evolve, and these girl groups are at the forefront of that change. They not only create music that fascinated millions but also influence global trends in fashion, dance, and culture. As they continue to break records, expand their fan bases, and experiment with new concepts, these K-pop girl groups are sure to remain icons in the industry for years to come.
[Updated: 04/19/2025]
Released in 1976, Robin and Marian is a powerful retelling of the classic Robin Hood story, offering a refreshing take on the well-known characters and their adventures. Directed by Richard Lester, the film explores themes of aging, lost love, and redemption, bringing a new emotional depth to the characters of Robin Hood and Marian. While the original tale of Robin Hood is often depicted with youthful energy, Robin and Marian takes a mature approach, focusing on the later years of Robin’s life as he faces his inevitable decline and reunites with Marian.
The film stars Sean Connery as Robin Hood and Audrey Hepburn as Marian, both of whom give unforgettable performances that differ greatly from the swashbuckling portrayals often seen in other adaptations. The movie also features a number of notable actors, including Robert Shaw as the Sheriff of Nottingham, bringing additional weight and gravitas to the narrative. Beyond its exceptional performances, Robin and Marian is also known for its stunning filming locations that showcase the beauty of the English countryside and medieval architecture. The scenic backdrops complement the film’s themes of nostalgia and the passage of time, offering a visual representation of the characters’ emotional journey.
In this, we will explore both the filming locations that helped bring Robin and Marian to life and the movie’s compelling plot. We’ll also uncover some behind-the-scenes details that make this film a standout adaptation of the beloved legend.
Robin and Marian cast (Image via Getty)
Filming Locations ofRobin and Marian
One of the most memorable aspects of Robin and Marian is its stunning cinematography, with the picturesque English countryside serving as the perfect backdrop to the film’s emotional and action-filled scenes. The filmmakers chose locations that not only enhanced the storytelling but also highlighted the film’s themes of time and memory. Let’s take a look at some of the key filming locations that helped make this adaptation so visually striking.
1.Scotland’s Dumfries and Galloway
Many of the outdoor scenes in Robin and Marian were filmed in the Dumfries and Galloway region of Scotland. This area is renowned for its rugged landscapes, dense forests, and remote castles, all of which help to establish the film’s medieval atmosphere. One of the standout locations here is the Dunskey Castle , a ruined fortress perched on the cliffs, which serves as a key setting for some of the film’s more intense sequences.
The sweeping vistas of the region are used effectively in the film to emphasize Robin’s isolation and the passing of time. The remote nature of these locations underlines the sense of loss and melancholy that pervades the narrative, as Robin returns to his old home, now far removed from his past glories.
2.Berkeley Castle, Gloucestershire
Another significant filming location is Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire, England. This 11th-century castle provided a stunning and authentic backdrop for several of the interior scenes, where Robin and Marian reunite after many years apart. The grand halls and medieval architecture of the castle create a strong connection to the time period in which the film is set.
Berkeley Castle has a rich history and is still in use today, which adds an extra layer of authenticity to the film. The castle’s old stone walls and elegant interiors provide the perfect setting for the reunion between Robin and Marian, lending weight to their emotional moments and reinforcing the film’s themes of nostalgia and the passage of time.
3.Fountains Abbey, North Yorkshire
Another memorable location is Fountains Abbey , a UNESCO World Heritage site in North Yorkshire. The abbey’s ancient ruins provide the perfect backdrop for the film’s more contemplative and somber moments. The empty, crumbling stone structures symbolize the fading of once-glorious ideals and the inevitable decline of even the strongest heroes, aligning perfectly with the film’s central themes.
Robin and Marian cast (Image via Getty)
Fountains Abbey also played a key role in the film’s climactic moments, where Robin and Marian face their pasts and ultimately find peace. The abbey’s haunting beauty and serene atmosphere offer a striking contrast to the violence and action often associated with the Robin Hood legend.
The Plot ofRobin and Marian
At its core, Robin and Marian is a story about love, loss, and the passage of time. It imagines what would happen if Robin Hood and Marian were reunited after years apart, no longer the vibrant and youthful figures they once were. Rather than focusing on the usual action-packed escapades, this film explores the emotional and psychological aspects of its legendary characters.
Robin Hood’s Return
The film begins with Robin Hood, now older and in poor health, living in self-imposed exile. His days of daring adventures are behind him, and he has largely been forgotten by the people he once fought for. However, upon learning of Marian’s death, Robin decides to return to England, hoping to find closure and come to terms with his past.
The Reconnection with Marian
Once back in England, Robin is reintroduced to Marian, who has spent years in a convent. Despite the years that have passed, their love for each other is reignited, though both characters are deeply changed by time. Marian is no longer the young, idealistic woman she once was, and Robin is a shadow of the hero he used to be.
Their reunion is bittersweet, filled with both moments of joy and painful acknowledgment of the years they lost. The film delicately examines the tension between their enduring love and the realities of aging and mortality. In many ways, Robin and Marian is a meditation on how time reshapes relationships and identities.
The Sheriff of Nottingham
The Sheriff of Nottingham, played by Robert Shaw, remains one of Robin’s primary antagonists, but his role in the film is also more nuanced. While he is still the villainous figure, the film introduces a level of humanity to the character, showing that even the most hardened adversaries can be touched by the passage of time. His rivalry with Robin feels less like a battle between good and evil and more like two old enemies confronting the inevitable changes in their lives.
Robin and Marian cast (Image via Getty)
The Final Confrontation
The film builds toward a final confrontation between Robin and the Sheriff, but rather than the typical battle of swordplay and action, the scene is infused with emotional depth. Robin and Marian’s final moments together are a poignant reflection on their past, and their shared memories offer a sense of peace amid the turmoil of the present.
Behind the Scenes: Filming Challenges and Legacy
Filming Robin and Marian was not without its challenges. Director Richard Lester and his crew had to contend with the unpredictable weather of the Scottish Highlands, which sometimes caused delays and difficulties in capturing the desired shots. Despite these challenges, the filmmakers managed to create a visually stunning film that resonates with viewers to this day.
The film’s legacy is cemented not only by its performances and cinematography but also by its unique approach to the Robin Hood myth. By focusing on the later years of Robin and Marian’s lives, Robin and Marian presented an emotional and reflective take on a beloved legend, setting it apart from other adaptations that typically focus on the youthful exploits of the characters.
Robin and Marian is a remarkable retelling of the Robin Hood story, offering a poignant exploration of aging, love, and redemption. The stunning filming locations in Scotland and England, such as Dumfries and Galloway, Berkeley Castle, and Fountains Abbey, provide the perfect backdrop to this emotional journey. The film’s mature approach to its iconic characters, particularly Robin and Marian, sets it apart from more traditional adaptations and makes it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
[Updated: 04/19/2025]
