Song Kang, Lee Minho, and Lee Jehoon in Tight Race for Best Actor

The Final Stretch of the Netizen Awards

As of May 28, 2025, the Netizen Awards are entering their final phase, and fans are pulling out all the stops. More than just a numbers game, the rankings are now seen as signals of change—shifts in fandom support, public favor, and momentum heading into the next season.

Plot Twists in the Actor Category

The term that best defines the current atmosphere? “Reshuffle.” No ranking is set in stone. Even the top contenders can’t afford to relax, while those in lower positions still have a shot at comeback glory. The mid-tier contenders continue to challenge the top ranks, making every vote count more than ever.

One key example is the Best Actor category, where Song Kang, Lee Minho, and Lee Jehoon are fighting neck-and-neck for a top 10 finish. Song Kang sits in 12th place, followed closely by Lee Minho in 13th and Lee Jehoon in 14th. At this pace, an upset in the rankings wouldn’t be surprising.

Fan Power in a Crucial Window

This moment marks a golden opportunity for a short-term surge. While there might not be enough time to completely overturn the leaderboard, a sudden burst of support can make a big impact—influencing future awards and proving a fandom’s staying power. For rising stars and seasoned actors alike, this is a rare chance for recognition or redemption.

Current Frontrunners in Each Category

As of 12:39 AM on May 28, leaders in each award category include:

• Best Male Artist: Hwang Youngwoong
• Best Female Artist: Jung Seojoo
• Album of the Year: Hwang Youngwoong – “By Your Side”
• Best Group: Fortena
• Neo Star Award: Liberante’s Kim Jihoon
• Best Actor: Byun Wooseok
• Best Actress: Kim Hyeyoon
• Best Film: “The Girl on the Bulldozer”
• Best Drama: U+mobiletv’s “Friendly Rivalry”
• Drama Classic: tvN’s “Secret Royal Inspector & Joy”
• Global Star: Cho Yongpil
• Legend Actor: Jung Youngjoo
• Sports Star: Heo Woong
• KBO Player: Lotte Giants
• Celebrity Icon: Giant Peng TV (Pengsoo)
• TV Personality: Son Taejin
• Educational Program: TV Chosun’s “Trot All-Star Battle: Wednesday Night”
• Top Company: Lotte
• CEO of the Year: Shin Dongbin, Chairman of Lotte Group
• Fanbook Award: Hwang Youngwoong
• CF Model Award: Hwang Youngwoong
• Net Grand Prix (Grand Champion): Hwang Youngwoong

With just days remaining, the Netizen Awards finale is shaping up to be a dramatic showdown of talent, popularity, and fan-driven passion.