Methodology of Evaluation
Forbes Korea evaluates celebrities based on several key criteria: accomplishments in their fields, media exposure, social media popularity, television appearances, and earnings from the previous year. This comprehensive approach allows for a nuanced understanding of a celebrity's influence beyond mere popularity, considering their professional impact and economic contributions.
The 2024 Rankings
The 2024 list sees Blackpink reclaiming the top position as the most powerful celebrity group in South Korea. Following them are Son Heung-min, the prominent football player, and NewJeans, a rapidly rising girl group, showcasing the stronghold of K-pop in shaping contemporary culture.
Here’s a brief look at the top ten from 2024:
- Blackpink - The girl group continues to break records and push boundaries globally, solidifying their status as K-pop royalty.
- Son Heung-min - As a key player for Tottenham Hotspur and the South Korean national team, he embodies the peak of athletic excellence and international recognition.
- NewJeans - This newcomer has made waves in the industry, proving that fresh talent can quickly ascend to prominence in a competitive landscape.
- Kim Min-jae - The footballer's rise in European football highlights the growing international footprint of South Korean athletes.
- Lim Young-woong - His popularity in the trot genre continues to resonate with fans, reflecting a diversification in musical tastes.
- Lee Jung-hoo - Another athlete making headlines, his influence is particularly strong within the baseball community.
- Jimin - As a member of BTS, his solo career has expanded his influence, bridging the gap between group and individual artistry.
- Lee Kang-in - The young footballer has garnered attention for his skill and potential, representing the new generation of athletes.
- Jungkook - Also from BTS, his solo projects have cemented his status as a versatile artist.
- Ive - The girl group rounds out the top ten, showing the sustained popularity of female idols in the industry.
Trends and Insights
The dominance of K-pop in this year’s rankings is significant. With Blackpink and NewJeans leading the pack, it’s clear that the genre's influence is not only pervasive but also evolving. NewJeans, in particular, reflects a shift towards fresh sounds and diverse concepts that resonate with younger audiences, indicating the potential for continued innovation within the genre.
On the sports front, Son Heung-min's presence emphasizes the rising profile of South Korean athletes on the world stage. His achievements in the Premier League have inspired a new generation of footballers in South Korea, showcasing the potential for crossover appeal between sports and entertainment.
The 2024 Forbes Korea Power Celebrity 40 list reveals an industry in transition, with K-pop at the forefront and sports figures increasingly taking their place alongside traditional entertainers. As South Korean culture continues to gain traction on a global scale, the influence of these celebrities will likely expand, paving the way for new talents and innovative trends. The interplay between music, sports, and social media underscores a vibrant cultural landscape, promising exciting developments in the years to come.
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