Hwang Youngwoong Clinches Top Spot with Over 100,000 Votes
Korean singer Hwang Youngwoong has proven his enduring star power by winning the Best Commercial (CF) Model Award at the April 2025 Netizen Awards. Garnering 103,927 votes, which accounted for 34.1% of all ballots, he secured first place thanks to the unwavering support of his dedicated fanbase.
Joining the ‘100K Club’ in Style
This win puts Hwang in the prestigious ‘100K Vote Club,’ a notable milestone that underscores his unrivaled popularity as a commercial model. Known for a memorable coffee ad in the past, Hwang continues to command attention in the CF industry with his trustworthy image and influence.
Fans Drive Hwang’s Victory
Experts point to Hwang’s fan loyalty as the key to his remarkable showing. While he has previously won fan-based contests like the Fanbook Grand Prize, this award highlights a different aspect of his appeal—his marketability and reliability as a face of endorsements.
“This result shows just how powerful consistent fan support can be,” said an industry watcher. “Hwang Youngwoong’s brand has become synonymous with trust.”
Fierce Competition Among Trot and Acting Stars
Coming in second was trot singer Jeong Seoju with 81,327 votes (26.7%), continuing her reign as a fan-favorite with her unique charm and multifaceted activities. Park Jihyun followed in third place with 53,480 votes (17.6%), while singer Son Taejin secured fourth place with 25,056 votes (8.2%).
Other notable rankings included actor Jang Minho (5th, 12,957 votes), actress Kim Hyeyoon (6th, 11,762 votes), model-turned-actor Byun Wooseok (7th, 7,463 votes), and trot artist Yang Jieun (8th, 4,411 votes). Rounding out the top ten were singer Song Gain and actor Uhm Taegoo.
May’s CF Model Battle Poised to Heat Up
The diverse lineup of singers and actors competing at the CF Model Awards speaks volumes about its cross-genre appeal. From Byun Wooseok and Yang Jieun’s close race to the broader trends of idol and trot star popularity, this month’s results set the stage for an even more competitive showdown in May.
Hwang’s first-place finish reinforces his image as not only a fan favorite but also a marketing powerhouse, making him a top pick for upcoming commercial campaigns.
