The Korean entertainment industry is a global powerhouse, captivating audiences worldwide with its music, dramas, and films. But who are the faces driving this wave of Korean cool? Forbes Korea’s annual Power Celebrity List provides a glimpse into the most influential figures in Korean entertainment and sports. This year’s list offers a fascinating blend of established stars and exciting newcomers, showcasing the ever-evolving landscape of Korean popularity. Let’s delve into the top 10 most powerful Korean celebrities of 2024:
1. BLACKPINK: Queens of K-Pop
There’s no denying the power of BLACKPINK. This girl group, consisting of Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa, continues to reign supreme. Their catchy music, impressive dance routines, and undeniable charisma have propelled them to global stardom. They top the 2024 list, reflecting their immense influence not only in Korea but across the international music scene.
2. Son Heung-min: A Footballing Powerhouse
South Korean football star Son Heung-min maintains his position as a top celebrity. His exceptional talent and dedication on the field have earned him international acclaim. As a key player for Tottenham Hotspur and the South Korean national team, Son Heung-min serves as a role model and a source of national pride, solidifying his place amongst Korea’s most powerful figures.
3. NewJeans: Rising Stars Take the Stage
The K-pop world witnessed a new phenomenon in 2021 with the debut of NewJeans. This girl group has taken the scene by storm, amassing a massive fan following in a short time. Their energetic performances and captivating music have captured hearts not only in Korea but also internationally. Their inclusion in the top 10 highlights the immense potential of this rookie group and their promising future.
4. Kim Min-jae: A Defender on the Rise
Korean football continues its dominance, with Kim Min-jae securing a spot on the list. This talented footballer, currently playing for the prestigious Bayern Munich club, has established himself as a key defender. His impressive skills and contributions to the team solidify his position as a powerful figure within Korean sports and a source of national pride.
5. Lim Young-woong: The King of Trot
Moving beyond the realm of K-pop, Lim Young-woong is a powerful figure in the Korean music industry with a different sound. This trot singer, known for his traditional Korean ballad style, has captured the hearts of Koreans across generations. His immense popularity within the country demonstrates the enduring appeal of traditional music and his ability to connect with audiences on a deep level.
6. Lee Jung-hoo: A Skating Star in the Making
The future of Korean figure skating appears bright with Lee Jung-hoo making his mark on the list. This young and talented skater is rising through the ranks, impressing audiences with his jumps, spins, and overall elegance on the ice. His inclusion signifies not only his current achievements but also the immense potential he holds for the future of the sport.
7. BTS’s Jimin: Individual Power Beyond the Group
BTS, the boy group that took the world by storm, continues to hold immense power, even with individual members shining bright. Jimin, a vocalist and dancer for BTS, secures his place on the list this year. His talent, stage presence, and dedicated fanbase solidify his influence beyond the group dynamic, showcasing the power each BTS member holds individually.
8. Lee Kang-in: A Football Prodigy
Another young star making waves in Korean football is Lee Kang-in. This young player, currently showcasing his skills with RCD Mallorca, is considered a rising talent with a bright future. His inclusion on the list highlights the promise he holds for the sport and the excitement surrounding his potential to become a major force in Korean football.
9. BTS’s Jungkook: The Maknae with Major Influence
Jungkook, the youngest member of BTS, secures a spot on the list alongside his bandmate Jimin. His impressive vocals, captivating dance moves, and undeniable stage presence solidify his individual power within the K-pop landscape. This inclusion demonstrates the enduring strength of BTS as a whole, even with individual members garnering significant individual recognition.
10. IVE: A New Generation of Girl Power
Rounding out the top 10 is IVE, another rising girl group in the K-pop industry. Their debut in 2021 garnered significant attention, and they have steadily built a dedicated fanbase. Their inclusion highlights the ever-evolving nature of Korean music and the potential of new groups to capture the hearts of audiences worldwide.