Cho Yong-pil: Still the King of K-pop Generations Later
Some names never fade. Legendary singer Cho Yong-pil has proven just that by winning the ‘Grand Star Award’ in the 2025 Netizen Awards. Garnering 5,878 votes (30.6%), he secured first place in the ‘Superstar’ category, showing once again why he is still lovingly called the ‘King of Pop’ in Korea.
Cho, whose career has shaped the foundation of modern Korean pop music, remains a powerful presence even decades later. His passionate performances and heartfelt music continue to comfort fans, old and new. Each note he sings brings back memories and inspires present-day listeners—a timeless impact few artists can claim.
A Showcase of Enduring Icons
The runner-up was Kim Wan-sun with 3,806 votes (19.8%), who continues to captivate audiences with her iconic diva energy from the 1980s and ’90s. Kim Kyung-ho (2,496 votes), Park Nam-jung (2,464 votes), and Lee Sun-hee (1,500 votes) followed, each showcasing their lasting fanbases and legacy in the Korean music scene.
Veterans like Na Hoon-a, Nam Jin, Kim Jong-seo, Seo Taiji, and Shin Seung-hun rounded out the top 10, while Lee Seung-hwan, Lee Mi-ja, Ha Chun-hwa, Kim Yeon-ja, Lee Moon-sae, and others were ranked among the top 20—each receiving heartfelt recognition from loyal fans.
More Than a Vote—A Tribute to Musical Legacy
This year’s Grand Star Award reflects more than just fleeting popularity. It is a tribute to artists who’ve walked side by side with the public for decades. Fans didn’t just vote—they expressed deep appreciation for those who’ve shaped the soundtrack of their lives. And at the very top stood Cho Yong-pil, not just a memory, but a living legend whose melodies still breathe through Korea’s musical heartbeat.
