Cho Yong-pil Reigns Supreme at May Netizen Awards

Legendary Artist Claims Top Spot with 36.4% of Votes

SEOUL, South Korea — The voice of generations, Cho Yong-pil, has once again demonstrated his timeless popularity by securing the Grand Star Award at the May 2025 Netizen Awards. With a commanding total of 5,673 votes — 36.4% of the total — Cho proved that his status as Korea’s “King of Pop” is far from a thing of the past.

Music That Bridges Generations

Cho Yong-pil’s music has long been the soundtrack to many Koreans’ lives, transcending eras and age groups. This recent win is not simply a tribute to nostalgia, but a powerful affirmation that his artistry continues to move listeners today.

Kim Wan-sun and Kim Kyung-ho Follow in the Rankings

Claiming the second spot was Kim Wan-sun — Korea’s revered 80s and 90s diva — garnering 3,845 votes (19.4%). Her transformation from retro icon to contemporary figure was clearly appreciated by fans.

Kim Kyung-ho took third with 2,590 votes (13.1%), followed by Park Nam-jung in fourth (2,509 votes, 12.6%) and Lee Sun-hee in fifth (1,531 votes, 7.7%).

Veterans Dominate the Top 10

The list from sixth to tenth showed the influence of long-time performers: Na Hoon-a (949 votes), Nam Jin (747), Kim Jong-seo (430), Seo Taiji (367), and Lee Seung-hwan (149). This lineup reflects the public’s enduring affection for artists who have stood the test of time.

The Power of Fan Loyalty

The competition remained fierce into the top 20. Jeon Young-rok, Ha Chun-hwa, Yoon Do-hyun, and Kwon In-ha all received strong support, along with icons like Lee Mi-ja, Kim Yeon-ja, and Shin Seung-hun. Yoon Sang and Lee Moon-sae rounded out the list, with 32 and 22 votes respectively.

A Symbol of Respect and Recognition

The Grand Star Award is more than just a popularity contest — it’s a heartfelt tribute from fans to artists who have etched themselves into the public’s memory. With his latest win, Cho Yong-pil once again stands at the peak, not just as a musical giant, but as a cultural treasure of Korea.