What is “Girl Crush” in K-pop?

Many K-pop idol groups are formed and marketed around a central philosophical and aesthetic conceit that helps them define themselves clearly to the world. “Girl Crush” is one of those aesthetics. Girl Crush groups typically appear strong and fierce, often leaning into edgy and empowering music that's heavy on hip-hop, trap, and raps. Girl Crush isn't sexual. Rather, it's meant to foster heterosexual admiration for the groups' members among female listeners.