Fan Wars Ignite in July
The July edition of the Netizen Awards has officially begun its preliminary round as of July 3, 2025. While the rankings haven’t shifted dramatically yet, dedicated fandoms are already on the move. This initial phase, often dubbed a ‘feeler round,’ allows fans to test the waters before the real battle intensifies.
Familiar Faces and Surprising Rookies
In major categories, dominant figures from the previous month remain strong contenders. However, new names are making surprise appearances, shaking up the early leaderboard. Some of these rookies may be unfamiliar to the general public but are already gaining momentum through steady fan-driven voting.
From Sprint to Marathon
This month’s key trait isn’t speed but consistency. Instead of flashy surges, it’s all about rhythmic, sustained votes. This calm before the storm could turn into an all-out fan war depending on how the fanbases ramp up their support going forward.
Actor Category in Full Swing
One of the most closely watched fields this month is the Best Male Actor category. As of July 3, the top spot is held by Byun Woo Seok, followed closely by Rowoon in second, and Lee Minho rounding out the top three with a surprising leap. With fan engagement heating up, this category may turn into a nail-biting finish by month’s end.
Top-Ranked Candidates by Category (as of July 3, 12:31 AM)
- Best Male Singer: Hwang Young Woong
- Best Female Singer: Jung Seo Joo
- Album of the Year: Hwang Young Woong’s “Knitted Sweater”
- Best Group: Forte di Quattro
- Neo Star: Son Bina
- Best Male Actor: Byun Woo Seok
- Best Female Actor: Kim Hye Yoon
- Movie of the Year: “The Girl on a Bulldozer”
- Drama of the Year: tvN’s “Carry Sunjae on My Back”
- Classic Award: tvN’s “Secret Royal Inspector & Joy”
- Grandstar Award: Cho Yong Pil
- Legendary Actor: Jung Young Joo
- Sports Star: Heo Woong
- Pro Baseball Award: Lotte Giants
- Celebrity Award: Jung Seo Joo
- Broadcasting Star: Son Tae Jin
- Culture Program of the Year: TV Chosun’s “Trot All-Star Show Wednesday Night”
- Top Corporation: Samsung Electronics
- Business Leader of the Year: Chairman Lee Jae Yong
- Fanbook Award: Hwang Young Woong
- CF Model of the Year: Hwang Young Woong
- Net Grand Prix Champion: Hwang Young Woong
What Comes Next?
As mid-July approaches, anticipation is building for when this quiet battle may erupt into full-blown fan warfare. With major fandoms like those of Hwang Young Woong, Jung Seo Joo, and Byun Woo Seok mobilizing, this month’s Netizen Awards could deliver another round of surprises and impassioned support.
After all, in the world of K-entertainment, it’s never just a vote—it’s a statement of loyalty.