Display MoreI don't know enough about boy groups so I'll stick to girl groups and remain under 10 picks.
Also, it's not really a subjective list but more like what I see as 4th gen milestones.
1. (G)I-DLE - LATATA
If we agree the 4th generation starts in 2018, then LATATA is the inaugural song for the 4th gen girl groups. Not an absolute smash hit, but it nevertheless achieved way more than what was expected from this relatively nugu group and did set the girls on their own path.
2. IZ*ONE - La Vie En Rose (or FIESTA)
People tend to forget them in 4th gen discussions because they disbanded what seems like a lifetime ago. Yet they're one of the reasons 4th gen was established in 2018 and their impact and success back then was undisputable. And we still see the ripples of it with the debuts of IVE and LE SSERAFIM.
3. ITZY - Dalla Dalla (or WANNABE)
Dalla Dalla was their biggest success but I feel like it's WANNABE that achieved the greater success worlwide. And I like the song more. Either way, ITZY's relevance in early 4th gen (at least) can't be denied.
Needs no explanation I guess.
5. IVE - ELEVEN or LOVE DIVE
Maybe LOVE DIVE achieved more, but it wouldn't have without ELEVEN "paving the way"™.
6. (G)I-DLE - TOMBOY
The rebirth of a group that had been left for dead. A hit that reached heights no one could have anticipated.
7. NewJeans - Attention
We lack hindsight so it's my most uncertain pick. Still it's an incredible debut for such a young group.
This is the correct answer! (If you pick Wannabe for Itzy) I'll add:
8.) StayC - So Bad
9.) Dreamcatcher (unclear if they're late 3rd gen or not) - BEcause