NewJeans and BTS: Surprising Rankings in Gallup Korea's Year-End Survey
Gallup Korea's recent year-end survey unveiled surprising findings in its ranking of the most popular singers of the year. Despite extended breaks from group activities, both BTS and NewJeans left a lasting impact on fans nationwide. For the younger demographic under 30, BTS, IU, and BLACKPINK had consistently held the top positions from 2020 to 2022. However, in 2023 and 2024, the rising stars NewJeans claimed the spotlight, garnering widespread attention with their unique presence. Despite facing a pause in their activities due to a legal dispute with HYBE, NewJeans maintained a strong presence, showcasing their significant influence on the music industry. Similarly, BTS, who has been on a hiatus since mid-2022 as members fulfill their military service obligations, continued to exert their influence, evident in this year's rankings. Both groups secured multiple spots in the top ten artists of the year across various age groups. Korean internet users were particularly impressed by NewJeans' rankings, as the group has faced criticism and scrutiny on online platforms throughout the year.