In a recent commemoration of its 19th anniversary, JoyNews24, a renowned media outlet, conducted an extensive survey to recognize the most influential individuals in the Korean entertainment industry. This annual study was held from September 18 to 25.
It involved the participation of 200 industry experts, ranging from entertainment and broadcasting professionals to seasoned journalists and accomplished content creators. The best part? BTS also participated in it and ended up victorious, including our very own Kim Taehyung. But first, let us look at some of the other ‘power people’ who made it big at the event.
Acknowledging the “Power People” in Entertainment
The primary objective of this survey was to identify and applaud individuals who have significantly contributed to the Korean entertainment industry. These influential figures, often referred to as “Power People,” were celebrated not only in the realm of K-pop but also across various sectors of the entertainment world, including acting, producing, hosting, and other aspects of the business.
Emerging Stars: NewJeans
NewJeans, a relatively new entrant to the K-pop scene with just over a year of existence, made a significant impact by securing the third-place position with an impressive 19 votes. Their rapid ascent is indicative of the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the K-pop landscape.
Tied Rankings in Fourth and Fifth Place
In the fourth place, a three-way tie emerged, featuring ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin, BLACKPINK’s Jennie, and TV personality Dex, each earning a notable 10 votes. BLACKPINK as a group secured the fifth place with nine votes.
Diversity in Sixth Place
The sixth place featured a diverse group of individuals, each earning six votes. This diverse lineup included BIGHIT MUSIC and HYBE Labels founder Bang Si Hyuk, celebrated comedian and host Yoo Jae Suk, the iconic Lee Hyori, the accomplished actress Lim Ji Yeon, and renowned screenwriter Kim Eun Seok. Notably, Lim Ji Yeon and Kim Eun Seok were recognized for their contributions to the popular K-drama, “The Glory.”
Soloist Lim Young Woong’s Resonance
Securing the second position was soloist Lim Young Woong, who earned a total of 30 votes. While his name may not resonate on an international scale as some K-pop acts, his immense popularity among middle-aged and older music enthusiasts in South Korea propelled him to a prominent position in the rankings. Now, shall we talk about BTS and V’s victories? Let’s go!
BTS’ Triumph
View this post on Instagram
Despite BTS not actively promoting as a group during the survey period, they secured the coveted top spot on the 2023 Entertainment Power People list with an impressive 35 votes. This achievement underscores BTS’s enduring influence on the entertainment industry. Even as several members undertook military service or explored solo careers, the likes of RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook continued to make substantial contributions as solo artists, ensuring the group’s sustained global presence.
V: A Rising Star on His Own
View this post on Instagram
BTS member Kim Taehyung, known as V, not only secured a position as a member of the globally acclaimed group but also shone as a solo artist. His recent solo debut has been a resounding success, celebrating his multifaceted talents.
In the first half of 2023, V made his debut as a cast member on the highly successful “Jinny’s Kitchen,” which not only garnered high ratings but also became the first Korean entertainment program available on Amazon’s Prime Video. Additionally, V’s solo album, “Layover,” achieved unprecedented sales, making him the first soloist in history to surpass 2 million sales on both the Hanteo and Circle (Gaon) charts. Anticipation within the industry is palpable for his potential return to acting and his continued journey towards stardom.