As 2026 gets closer, many K-pop idols born in 2008 will be turning 18, an important age both personally and professionally. For idols, this moment often marks a shift in how they are seen by fans and the industry. Some of these young artists are already active, while others are still training or preparing for upcoming debuts.
Several idols born in 2008 are already part of rookie groups or have gained attention through survival shows.
Some notable idols turning 18 are NewJeans’ Hyein, Rora from BABYMONSTER, ILLIT’s Iroha, and more. Multiple members from Hearts2Hearts, CORTIS, IDID, RESCENE, ifeye, and more will legally turn adults in 2026. Other young idols born in 2008 include performers such as Ella Gross, Jeong Saebi, Beni Daon, Doha, Zena, Jiu, and more.
There are also many lesser-known idols and trainees born in 2008 who are part of smaller groups or still preparing for debut. Members like An Chanwon and Jang Hyounjoon from the boy group The Wind are among those fans are keeping an eye on. Two trainees from SMTR25 will turn 18 this year.
Turning 18 is especially meaningful in South Korea, as it marks legal adulthood. For idols, this often leads to changes in image, new opportunities, and greater independence in their careers. Fans usually celebrate these birthdays with online events, messages, and support projects.
Beyond those officially turning 18, 2026 is also expected to spotlight very young idols across new debuts. Major K-pop companies, including JYP, HYBE, YG, and SM, are preparing to debut new groups.
Here is a complete list of K-pop idols turning 18 next year
- Hyein (NewJeans)
- Rora (BABYMONSTER)
- Iroha (ILLIT)
- Juun (Hearts2Hearts)
- A-na (Hearts2Hearts)
- Martin (CORTIS)
- Juhoon (CORTIS)
- Baek Junhyuk (IDID)
- Jeon Semin (IDID)
- Ella Gross (MEOVV)
- Jeong Saebi (izna)
- Seo Kyoungbae (CLOSE YOUR EYES)
- Beni (Baby DONT Cry)
- Seohyeon (AtHeart)
- Kasia (ifeye)
- Meu (ifeye)
- Daon (USPEER)
- An Chanwon (The Wind)
- Jang Hyounjoon (The Wind)
- Harin (KIIRAS)
- Kylie (KIIRAS)
- Yeonji (tripleS)
- Miraku (NouerA)
- Doha (ARrC)
- Jibeen (ARrC)
- Julia (Candy Shop)
- May (RESCENE)
- Zena (RESCENE)
- Jiyoon (VVUP)
- Boeun (CLASS:y)
- Seonyou (CLASS:y)
- Haeun (former Lapillus member)
- Boreum (BASTITE)
- Jaewon (SMTR25)
- Jian (ARISE)
- Chaewon (With Me)
- Chenyu (A20 May)
- Dohyeok (NAZE)
- Eunchae (PIERCE)
- Kyuyeon (PIERCE)
- Minsol (PIERCE)
- Garin (PIERCE)
- Harry (SUPERKIDS)
- Hero (SUPERKIDS)
- Hyoa (On Top)
- Jiu (VVS)
- Jake (ChoCo1)
- Jo (DXMON)
- Seojin (HITGS)
- Woolin (SMTR25)
- Woojin (LNGSHOT)
- Woomi (ICECREAM)
- Seoyun (Magic Girl)
