Heo Ung Reigns Again at Netizen Sports Awards
In a result that’s starting to feel as inevitable as a K-drama second lead heartbreak, Korean basketball star Heo Ung once again claimed the top spot in the August 2025 Netizen Awards – Sports Category. With a whopping 6,778 votes, making up 44.6% of the total, Heo continues to ride a slam-dunk streak of popularity that lifts him beyond just the court—a bonafide sports culture icon, crowned by the people.
Soccer Kings Trail Close Behind
Coming in at second and third place were Lee Kang-in and Son Heung-min—powerhouses from South Korea’s soccer elite. Lee, who dazzles both in national team matchups and on the European stage, racked up 2,104 votes (13.8%). Right behind him, Son, the beloved “Sonny” of the Premier League, secured 1,751 votes (11.5%), proving charisma and performance still go hand-in-hand.
Badminton’s golden girl An Se-young also soared high, finishing fourth with 1,012 votes (6.7%). With her frequent wins on the global circuit, An continues to be a source of pride—and a growing inspiration for young Korean athletes.
Baseball and Figure Skating Spark Fan Nostalgia
Fifth place went to rising baseball star Kim Do-young of the KIA Tigers, nabbing 986 votes (6.5%). Meanwhile, the legendary Kim Yuna, Korea’s beloved “Ice Queen,” slid into sixth place with 832 votes (5.5%)—proving that some legends never fade, even post-retirement.
Seventh place was snapped up by Lee Jung-hoo, now playing in Major League Baseball, whose international move continues to earn him respect—and fan taps—on both sides of the Pacific.
From Volleyball Courts to Golf Greens
In eighth place, volleyball legend Kim Yeon-koung (513 votes, 3.4%) once again proved her staying power. Her presence, both on the court and in variety shows, keeps her fanbase loyal and loud. Ninth was golf’s rising phenom Yoon Ina (401 votes, 2.6%), a symbol of the new generation of Korean athletes making waves on fairways.
Rounding out the top 10 was another basketballer, Yeo Jun-seok, with 49 votes (0.3%). While his score may seem modest, the mere entry into the top 10 bodes big things for his future growth—as both player and public figure.
What the Sports Awards Really Mean
While it’s tempting to chalk this up as just another popularity poll, the monthly Netizen Awards offer something more than clout-chasing. They measure something intangible yet powerful: the emotion-driven engine of fandom. Instead of relying on panels or pundits, this arena lets the people decide—and they’ve spoken loud and clear.
Heo Ung’s double-month win is proof that athlete charisma, connection, and fan loyalty can outweigh even the most decorated stat sheets. What’s more, the diversity of the top 10—featuring stars from soccer, baseball, badminton, skating, and even golf—reflects the multi-sport appetite of today’s K-fans.
Can Heo Ung Sweep Again in September?
With September just around the corner, fans are already wondering: Can Heo pull off a triple crown? Or will another fierce contender disrupt the streak and edge into first? Whether it’s an Olympic ace or a next-gen K-leaguer, one thing’s for sure—the power of the fandom vote is here to stay.
Fan Favorites by the Numbers
- Heo Ung: 6,778 votes (44.6%)
- Lee Kang-in: 2,104 votes (13.8%)
- Son Heung-min: 1,751 votes (11.5%)
- An Se-young: 1,012 votes (6.7%)
- Kim Do-young: 986 votes (6.5%)
- Kim Yuna: 832 votes (5.5%)
- Lee Jung-hoo: 766 votes (5.0%)
- Kim Yeon-koung: 513 votes (3.4%)
- Yoon Ina: 401 votes (2.6%)
- Yeo Jun-seok: 49 votes (0.3%)
FAQs
Who is Heo Ung and why is he so popular?
Heo Ung is a professional basketball player in South Korea and one of the sport’s most popular figures. Known for his leadership and clutch plays, he’s become a symbol of the basketball boom in Korean pop culture.
What are the Netizen Awards?
The Netizen Awards are monthly online voting events hosted in Korea where fans vote for their favorite stars in categories like music, sports, TV, and more. Think of it like a People’s Choice Awards—but every month and with serious fan power.
How often are the Sports Netizen Awards held?
The sports category of the Netizen Awards is held monthly. Fans cast votes to support their favorite athletes, often leading to viral campaigns and fierce fandom battles across social media platforms.
