XG is a seven-member Japanese group based in South Korea, formed by XGALX, a subsidiary of Avex. The group is active from 2022 and consists of JURIN, CHISA, HINATA, HARVEY, JURIA, MAYA and COCONA. It operates under XGALX and is described as a South Korea-based Japanese group.

Formation and identity

XG’s name stands for “Xtraordinary Genes”. The group uses this as part of a wider aim to reach audiences around the world through music, performance and self-expression. It works largely in English and positions itself outside the usual boundaries of the Japanese and Korean music industries.

Before its official debut, XG is introduced through a series of training and performance videos that highlight the members’ rap, dance and vocal abilities. Its international fanbase is known as Alphaz.

Music and style

The group’s sound combines contemporary R&B, K-pop, pop and pop rap, with additional elements of hip-hop, R&B, pop and dance music. Its releases often emphasise polished performance, confidence and strong visual presentation.

Debut and early releases

XG debuts with the digital single Tippy Toes in March 2022. The song introduces the group’s performance-led style and English-language approach. Later in 2022, it releases Mascara, which continues themes of confidence, independence and empowerment. The group also appears on South Korean music programmes for the first time that year.

In November 2022, the rap cypher Galz Xypher attracts significant attention online and highlights the members’ technical rap skills and charisma.

2023 releases

In January 2023, XG releases Shooting Star alongside Left Right. These songs broaden the group’s audience beyond Asia, and “Left Right” gains notable success on international radio and streaming platforms.

The group’s debut EP, New DNA, follows in September 2023. The release is preceded by GRL GVNG, which leans more heavily into hip-hop. Additional singles from the project include TGIF and New Dance. The EP tops the Billboard Japan Hot Albums chart and receives Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.

2024 and beyond

In 2024, XG begins its first world tour, performing across Asia, North America and Europe. During this period it releases WOKE UP, Something Ain’t Right, IYKYK and UNDEFEATED, the last of which is made with Riot Games for the video game Valorant.

These releases lead into the group’s second EP, AWE, issued in November 2024. The record extends the group’s genre range and continues its focus on high-level performance and visual presentation.

Full-length album

XG later announces its first full-length studio album, THE CORE - 核, preceded by the single GALA. This marks a move beyond the EP format and continues the group’s rapid rise as a multilingual, performance-focused pop act.