Heo Woong Takes Commanding Lead in Sports Category
As of 9:24 p.m. on July 13, basketball star Heo Woong is leading the 2025 July Netizen Awards in the sports category with 3,364 votes, accounting for an impressive 43.8% of the total. He currently holds nearly three times the number of votes as the runner-up, securing a commanding position at the top.
Popularity Fueled by Active Fan Engagement
Widely recognized as a household name in Korean basketball, Heo Woong’s popularity extends beyond the court. His consistent interaction with fans and his presence in various media activities have cemented his spot as a top sports figure. Having topped the June poll as well, he’s now pushing for a second consecutive monthly win.
Strong Contenders in the Race
Trailing in second place is badminton world No. 1 An Seyoung, who garnered 1,136 votes (14.8%). Fans are watching closely to see if her soaring popularity can potentially disrupt Heo’s lead in the final moments of voting.
Soccer stars Lee Kangin and Son Heungmin follow in 3rd and 4th place, with 901 (11.7%) and 747 votes (9.7%) respectively. Both are playing pivotal roles in elevating Korean soccer on the global stage.
Figure Skating Legend and More Athletes Close Behind
In 5th place is the timeless queen of figure skating, Kim Yuna, who secured 398 votes (5.2%). The middle tier of rankings is particularly heated, with baseball and volleyball players Lee Junghoo (334), Kim Doyoung (324), and Kim Yeonkoung (321) locked in a tight battle where fewer than 15 votes separate them.
Rising Stars and Potential Dark Horses
Yoon Ina, a promising figure on the women’s golf circuit, holds 9th place with 141 votes (1.8%), establishing herself as a new female sports role model. Rounding out the top 10 is Jeon Minjae of the Lotte Giants with 18 votes (0.2%). Despite the lower score, his impressive .304 batting average in the first half of the season suggests he’s a star on the rise. A strong showing in the second half could spark new interest and a potential surge in votes.
Diverse Sports, Diverse Stars
This month’s Sports Award reflects a rich diversity across disciplines, including basketball, badminton, soccer, baseball, figure skating, volleyball, and golf. As fan votes continue to pour in, they not only highlight popularity, but also the performance and branding power of each athlete. The true value of Korea’s sports stars is becoming clearer with each vote.
