The K-Pop industry is known to be a revolving door of innovation, creativity, and impactful star presence. The Hallyu wave has effectively taken over the world with idol groups and soloists, along with riveting K-Dramas at the forefront. Just like previous years, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism conducted the Overseas Hallyu Survey to determine overseas fans' favorites in various categories.

The main purpose of this survey is to compile the data on the impact of the Hallyu wave. With a sample size of 25,000 people from over 26 countries, the 2024 Overseas Hallyu Survey tries its best to show an accurate representation of what types of K-Content is being consumed in different countries.

In one part of the survey, respondents were asked "Who is currently your favorite Korean group/artists?". Let's find out their answers below!

 

Top 5 Favorite K-Pop Groups/Artists

1. BTS

With an impressive 29.1%, BTS takes the top spot among overseas fans' favorite K-Pop idol groups/artists. While the BTS members were active with solo schedules, they slowly made their way into the army, one by one, in order to carry out their mandatory military enlistment. Despite fulfilling their national duty, the iconic boy group's musical influence, positivity, and unique outlook have cemented them as a top idol group.

 

2. BLACKPINK

Following in second is world-renowned girl group BLACKPINK. They were selected by 13.1% of respondents as their favorite idol group. After the conclusion of their Born Pink World Tour, the iconic girl group decided to stay together with YG for group promotions, but would pursue their individual endeavors under a separate companies. Despite this, the very essence of BLACKPINK still resonated deeply with K-Pop fans across the globe for both their music and individuality.

 

3. Psy

When 'Gangnam Style' first dominated the world charts, it seemed like a fever dream. However, through its success, the Korean wave was able to make a resounding resurgence worldwide. This international success has remained with Psy since, praised for his contributions to Korean entertainment and culture. Psy had a somewhat quiet 2023 but was still able to fill concert venues and remained at the forefront of overseas fans' hearts, being selected by 2.9%.

 

4. BTS' JungKook

BTS as a whole were successful soloists in 2023, however, the one member who was selected by 2.7% of overseas fans as their favorite artist was none other than the golden maknae himself, BTS' JungKook. Coming out with the album "GOLDEN", comprised of hits like 'Seven', 'Standing Next To You', and '3D', JungKook's career was elevated to another level. He was able to showcase his individuality as an artist, becoming a beloved name among the K-Pop community and beyond.

 

5. IU

Rounding out the list at no. 5 is the lovely singer-actress, IU. The award-winning soloist was selected by 2.1% of overseas fans. In 2023, she earned immense love for her appearance in hilarious yet heartwarming sports movie, "Dream". Aside from this, IU is an artist that millions love worldwide, praised for her swoon-worthy musicality and incredible artistic prowess.

 

Top 5 Favorite K-Pop Groups Regional Breakdown

Although the above artists were the overall consensus among overseas fans, there were some outliers among the various regions. In Asia - Oceania TWICE and BLACKPINK's Lisa took no. 4 and no. 5. Stray Kids were included in the Top 5 of the Americas and Europe. Then BIGBANG's G-Dragon was present among the fans in the Middle East and Africa. However, one common factor among all regions was BTS' place at the top. Even in a year where they all slowly transitioned into military service, they remained the hottest K-Pop act that the world has ever seen.

However, speaking of consistency, BLACKPINK remained at a constant no. 2, while they were beaten out by BTS' loveable maknae, JungKook, among the overseas fans in Africa. These rankings have remained quite similar over the past several years.

As seen through the results of the Overseas Hallyu Survey over the years, BTS and BLACKPINK remain a force to be reckoned with. They worked tirelessly, standing on the biggest stages worldwide, communicating with fans through whatever means possible. They built up a long-standing legacy within the K-Pop community that surely won't crumble anytime soon. And despite all the criticism and hardships they might have faced along the way, the groups remained resolute in their commitment to their profession as idols, leveling up at various moments of their career. Both BTS and BLACKPINK have become frontrunners of the K-Pop industry, recognized by millions, if not trillions, around the globe.

 

The BTS & BLACKPINK Effect

It's hard to describe just how big of an influence BTS and BLACKPINK have had on the K-Pop community, resulting in both groups being no. 1 and no. 2 on overseas fans' top 5 list. With such longevity in their careers and the ability to connect to audiences beyond music, they've become a mainstay within the various micro-communities scattered across K-Pop. Currently, the two groups are taking a pause in their careers as a group, with BTS in the military and BLACKPINK focusing on their solo endeavors. However, both BTS and BLACKPINK continue to show up in netizens' mentions, extending their reach past the dedicated fandoms of ARMY and BLINK.

As a result of their continuing fame, despite being in a rest period of their group career, the sentiment towards the two are quite positive as fans patiently wait for their return.

And while it might be some time until we're able to see both BTS and BLACKPINK take the stage as a full group, this proves one thing: they show no signs of slowing down. The fact that people are still mentioning and searching about the two groups showcases their massive allure, bewitching the entire world to fall into their ocean of charms. This affection is well-earned, backed up by spectacular stages, heartwarming social media interactions, and being treated to additional content, so their absence is rarely felt. With this, it's quite likely that even future iterations of the Overseas Hallyu Survey will result in the idol groups being no. 1 and no. 2 once again.

 

Other Consistent Star-Studded Names

The prestige of BTS and BLACKPINK aside, along with Psy, there are even more names that deserve recognition for leading the Hallyu wave to even bigger heights. When talking about the globalization of K-Pop, one cannot forget about JYP Entertainment girl group TWICE. They've become a sturdy cornerstone within the industry, consistently selling out concert venues and becoming more than a national gem. Now, fans everywhere cheer their name at their various world tour stops and all across social media.

The interest over time towards TWICE has remained consistently high over the past 5 years, peaking around the times of their world tour, year end award show performances, and new releases. With such a strong fanbase and even interest from casual K-Pop fans, the girl group has an enormous stake in the K-Pop industry. Their presence is undeniable and will surely continue to persist, even with the changing of generations.

Then there's celebrated veteran, IU, who has managed to remain in the top 5 K-Pop acts for overseas fans for the past several years. Her sheer influence in the K-Pop scene cannot be understated, as she's also able to bridge the gap between music show stages and drama film sets.

Over the past 5 years, similarly to TWICE, netizen's interest over time towards the soloist have remained at a constantly high rate, showing huge jumps during song releases, news of her relationship status, and the moment she announced her world tour. Apart from BTS, BLACKPINK, and Psy, these two amazingly talented and renowned artists have remained at the top of the K-Pop scene, receiving love from international fans far and wide.

Newer groups from the fourth and fifth generation are currently showcasing a parade of talents, vying for the top spot in overseas fans' heart. Only time will tell if they'll have the ability to be included in the Overseas Hallyu Survey and be mentioned among the top 5 groups of overseas fans.

What do you think of the results of the Top 5 K-Pop Idols/Artists for the 2024 Overseas Hallyu Survey?

Triple iz is a multinational girl group who has captivated the world.

Earlier this month on April 8th, Triple iz made their long awaited debut with the addictive and trendy track 'Halla'. After months of practice, passion, and preparation, it seems the girls' hard work paid off as the song quickly topped the Indonesian iTunes chart upon release. Additionally, a special event was created for Izland around the globe: the Triple iz 'Halla' Dance Challenge Event — "Who Is The Best 'Halla' ifstar?"!

There have been numerous participants showcasing their support and love towards Triple iz. However, the season of Triple iz and giveaway events are far from over! There is yet another event that will be hosted through Kpopmap.

Read more about it down below.

 

Video Challenge Event Details

How To Participate

Participants will be able to win very special prizes through dance and their very own singing ability by trying various challenges with Triple iz's 'Halla'. Here is how you participate!

1. Cover song via ifland: using ifland's microphone, recording app, or phone screen recording function, record yourself singing a cover of 'Halla' on ifland

2. Capturing a self-video: Even if it's not on ifland, you can use your phone to make a recording of yourself doing a cover dance and song! Upload these videos as a reply and use the hashtag #kpopmap_halla. This way, you can become a new 'Halla' star!

- The videos of the selected winners will be shown on screen during the regular news streaming time for Triple iz: Weekly Izland News. It can be shown to fellow fans across the globe! (Triple iz may even come to see your video!)

We're well aware that there are some restrictions when using ifland to record. So we will gladly accept a variety of video entries for this challenge. Even if it's not a cover dance or song, all types of creative videos using Triple iz's 'Halla' are acceptable!

You can play 'Halla' on the piano or recorder, team up with your parents and enjoy the song's addictive rhythm together, or incorporate the entire family, parents and siblings included, to enjoy everything 'Halla' related. If it's a video, anything is possible, so use 'Halla' to showcase your unique and special talents!

Follow these steps and you'll be entered to win an exclusively signed album + photo.

 

Event Period

2024.04.25 (Thurs) ~ 2024.05.07 (Tues) KST

 

Winner Announcement

-  Please have your DMs open so we can contact you if you're chosen as a winner.

- After the conclusion of the event, if we do not receive the personal information from the winner within a certain period, their prize may be canceled.

If you haven't already, check out the official MV of 'Halla' down below.

Stay tuned to Kpopmap for more coverage on Triple iz's journey now that they've finally debuted!

There's a new girl group who has their sights set on the top, and that's Triple iz.

Consisting of members Dita (of SECRET NUMBER), Aria (of X:IN), and E.Ji (of ICHILLIN'), Triple iz have slowly been preparing to meet the the industry as a full group since the ending of 2023. And it looks like all that preparation has paid off as they've successfully completed their showcase for the release of their incredible new song, 'Halla', on April 8th.

Their momentous debut received a hot response, achieving such amazing results on the Indonesian iTunes chart. The new song garnered mass love and attention, taking first and second place on the daily chart immediately after its release. Afterwards, it was listed in the top 10 on the weekly chart from April 8th to the 14th.

[Triple iz X Kpopmap]💗

The Triple iz members share their feelings about 'Halla' debuting at #1 on iTunes Indonesia.🎵
Check out what they have to say in this exclusive video!#트리플아이즈 #Tripleiz #디타 #DITA #SECRET_NUMBER #이지 #E_JI #ICHILLIN #아리아 #ARIA #XIN #HALLA pic.twitter.com/T7GvHxGRl3

— Kpopmap (@Kpopmap) April 16, 2024

Following such success, fans continued to show their love and support by participating in the "Halla Dance Challenge" on social media. It not only trended among the fandom of Izland, but also made some noise within the K-Pop community, furthering Triple iz's reach as a multinational girl group.

In the virtual world called ifland, fans can now happily partake in a brand new experience by enjoying the main dance parts of 'Halla' as their metaverse avatars.

Even main PD metajune is unable to contain his excitement, happily dancing along to 'Halla', supporting Triple iz with a specially made outfit. He hopes to continue planning such spectacular star collaboration projects in the future. You can also follow him on Instagram via @triple_iz_pd for more updates. Additionally, if you participate in the Avatar Dance Motion Challenge held within ifland, you will have the opportunity to receive a limited edition Triple iz 'Halla' album kit.

For more details on this special dance challenge, you can check here.

Triple iz's successful showcase and impressive chart domination, as well as their fans' explosive response, puts them in a position to become a notable new star in the global music industry. Through innovative fan communication strategies and connecting together through the metaverse of ifland, Triple iz is redefining the ever changing boundaries of the K-Pop industry.

How are you continuing to support Triple iz? Will you be participating in the dance challenge?