Heo Woong Dominates the 2025 Netizen Sports Awards
In May 2025, basketball player Heo Woong emerged as the fan favorite in the Netizen Awards’ Sports category, earning a remarkable 7,849 votes—43.7% of the total. Despite tough competition from star athletes spanning various sports and generations, Heo stood out with his strong fan support and lasting public appeal.
Fan Loyalty More Than Just Popularity
This win reflects more than mere popularity—Heo Woong has proven his staying power and influence in Korean sports culture. His ability to rally fans speaks to the trust and admiration he continues to build. As fan loyalty becomes an increasingly powerful force in sports, Heo’s dominance shows the momentum of his ever-growing fandom.
Close Competitors: An Se-young, Son Heung-min, and More
Coming in second was badminton ace An Se-young with 3,050 votes (17.0%). Her groundbreaking performances on the international stage have gained her trust among fans and challenged the male-dominated sports spotlight.
Son Heung-min, captain of the national soccer team, secured third with 1,957 votes (10.9%). His recent UEFA Europa League win with Tottenham Hotspur further cemented his World-Class status.
At fourth was Lee Kang-in with 1,891 votes (10.5%), showing strong support from younger fans thanks to his consistent play in both national and club matches. Meanwhile, legendary figure skater Kim Yuna claimed fifth with 927 votes (5.2%), displaying her enduring popularity even after retirement.
Diverse Athletes Representing Korean Sports
- 6th – Lee Jung-hoo (796 votes, 4.4%)
- 7th – Kim Do-young (735 votes, 4.1%)
- 8th – Yoon Ina (392 votes, 2.2%)
- 9th – Kim Yeon-koung (235 votes, 1.3%)
- 10th – Choi Jeong (111 votes, 0.6%)
The top 10 list showcases athletes from a wide range of sports, highlighting the broad interest Korean fans have in various disciplines.
Lee Jung-hoo’s Head-Turning May Performance
Though finishing sixth in the poll, May arguably belonged to Lee Jung-hoo, who now plays in Major League Baseball as an outfielder for the San Francisco Giants. Excelling both offensively and defensively, he’s been a key contributor to the team’s success. In early June, the team recognized his contributions by granting him a well-deserved break—proof of his standout performance during the previous month.
More than Just Numbers—A Look into Fans’ Hearts
The results of the 2025 Netizen Sports Award reveal not only popularity rankings but also where fans’ passions truly lie. It’s a rare glimpse at the athletes who continue to inspire and captivate audiences long after the final whistle blows.
