Since I am not too familiar with the first generation of idols, this list will only include girls that came from the 2nd generation or younger. These are the girls that became household names, that became almost as big as their own group. Being popular with CFs isn't enough, as these it-girls were CF, Music, TV, and Variety stars all in one. These are the female idols that from my own experience became house-hold names in Korea for more than just their music. I will include the years in which they were heavily promoted and seen as some of the biggest stars Korea had to offer.
Sohee from the Wonder Girls
2007 - 2011
Yoona from Girls' Generation
2008 - 2013
Sulli from f(x)
2009 - 2012
2012 - present
Hyeri from Girl's Day
2014 - 2016
2015 - 2018
2015-2016
Irene from Red Velvet
2016-2019
2018-present
2018-present
Honorable Mention :
UEE After School
Sana TWICE
As for 4th gen , its still way too early (or safe to say theres still no one that deserve to be called as an it girls
Keep in mind that the years I have given don't mean they stopped being successful after that, just that they weren't as trendy as before. What do you think of this list? Should I add / remove anyone?
PS : before you reply with some of your faves, please make sure that whoever you ask me to add is actually a house-hold name, and seen as one of Korea's top stars.