October Means Game Time for the Netizen Awards
The Netizen Awards are back for October 2025 — and the competition is already sizzling. As the leaves begin to turn, so does the tide of public votes in this fan-driven monthly showdown, which has become a pillar of pop culture recognition in Korea.
Fandom Power Fuels 22 Fierce Categories
The awards span 22 categories, covering everything from solo vocalists to global groups, rising drama stars, sports legends, and even corporate icons. While each category functions like its own universe, the gravitational force linking them all is unmistakable: fandom. Whether you’re a die-hard for IU or a loyal supporter of BTS, your daily vote carries weight — sometimes literally turning the tide overnight.
“The fans aren’t just watching anymore, they’re writing the story,” commented a media analyst on the unique fan culture fueling the awards.
New Faces Stir the Pot
This October, the vibe feels different. With shifting seasons come fresh contenders, many of whom are strong enough to unseat long-standing favorites. As surprises pop up across categories, fans are engaging in more intricate strategies — and the voting halls have never been more intense.
Main Categories & Fandom Favorites
- Best Male Solo: Stars like Lim Youngwoong, Park Hyo Shin, and up-and-comers like Enoch and Son Taejin.
- Best Female Solo: Includes K-pop icons IU and Rosé (BLACKPINK), alongside rising names like Hynn and Kim Taeyeon.
- Top Album: From Lim Youngwoong’s ‘IM HERO 2’ to Jannabi’s nostalgic-themed releases.
- Best Group: Competitors include NewJeans, BTS, BLACKPINK, SEVENTEEN, IVE, and even crossover ensemble groups like Forestella and Forte di Quattro.
- Neo Star: A new generation including Kim Joonhyun, Eunho of PLAVE, and soloists like Solomon and Chunchil is rising quickly.
Acting, Sports, and Even CEOs Get Their Moment
This year, the awards extend beyond pop idols. Acting nominees include fan-favorite leads like Lee Junho, Kim Yoojung, Park Eun Bin, and Hyeri. In sports, names such as Kim Yuna (figure skating), Lee Kangin (soccer), and Son Heungmin need little introduction. Fun twist? Business moguls like Samsung’s Lee Jae Yong and CJ Group’s Lee Jae Hyun are also in the spotlight under the ‘Business Leader of the Year’ category.
Special Categories Make a Comeback
- Drama of the Year: A mix of current hits and fan-favorite reruns, including King the Land, Extraordinary Attorney Woo, and Crash Landing on You.
- Fan Book Award: Celebrates artists who’ve built special connections with their admirers — notable nominees include Song Ga In and Jeong Seojoo.
- CF Model of the Year: Visual powerhouses like Bin Yeseo and Hwang Youngwoong look set to dominate.
A War of Hearts — and Clicks
Whether you’re here for the voices, visuals, or vibes, there’s a battlefield waiting for every fan. As online votes pour in like rain in a K-drama finale, only devotion, strategy, and pure digital hustle will determine who takes home the gold this October.
Voting is currently open. Support your faves before the curtain closes on another electrifying chapter of the Netizen Awards.
