Icons of K-pop Remain on the Radar
Despite trailing behind the top contenders in the ongoing 2025 Netizen Awards for Best Male Artist, two global K-pop powerhouses—G-Dragon and BTS’s Jin—are reminding fans that influence goes beyond numbers.
As of 6:36 PM KST on June 24, G-Dragon and Jin occupy 19th and 20th place, with 47 and 42 votes respectively. Though these figures place them in the lower ranks, their presence alone speaks volumes about their legacy and continued fan support worldwide.
More Than Just Numbers
G-Dragon, often hailed as the “icon of K-pop,” is more than just a singer. His artistic vision and trendsetting aura have made him a defining figure in K-pop’s global rise. Meanwhile, Jin from BTS continues to showcase his staggeringly strong global fandom and public appeal—even during his military service hiatus.
Currently, the leaderboard is dominated by rising sensation Hwang Young Woong with 76,034 votes (40.9%), followed by Park Jihyun (20,809 votes) and Son Taejin (18,702 votes). Names like Enoch, Jinwon, and Seo Youngtaek round out the middle tier, but none carry the same symbolic weight as G-Dragon and Jin.
A Symbol of Enduring Stardom
While G-Dragon and Jin may not be front-runners in terms of votes this round, their inclusion in the rankings reflects something deeper—the emotional and cultural weight they carry. In a fan-driven award like this, every vote becomes a testament to lasting loyalty, and even lower-ranked stars can threaten to rise at any moment.
Ultimately, this year’s Netizen Awards aren’t just about who leads the poll. They’re an ongoing celebration of K-pop’s most resilient and beloved figures. And in that regard, G-Dragon and Jin continue to prove they’re still shining stars in the ever-evolving galaxy of K-pop.