The Korean Business Research Institute has announced the July 2025 Rising Star Brand Reputation Rankings, highlighting the most talked-about emerging celebrities in Korea. The rankings are based on big data analysis, including media coverage, fan engagement, and online buzz.
Choo Young Woo claimed the top spot this month, followed by Byeon Woo Seok and Kim Yong Bin. The rankings reflect the growing influence of these stars in the entertainment industry.
Choo Young Woo Tops the List with Strong Drama Performances
Choo Young Woo secured first place with a brand reputation index of 2,902,305. His recent role in the drama “Head Over Heels” gained massive attention, making him a favorite among viewers.
Despite a 44.13% drop from his June score, Choo Young Woo maintained his lead due to his versatile acting. He also won the Best New Actor award at the 2025 Blue Dragon Series Awards for his performance in “The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call.”
“Choo Young Woo showed great range in dramas, which helped him top the list,” said Goo Chang Hwan, director of the Korean Business Research Institute.
Byeon Woo Seok Ranks Second with Charity Work and Fan Support
Byeon Woo Seok took second place with a brand reputation index of 2,424,328. His popularity rose after his role in “Lovely Runner”, and his recent charity work earned praise from fans.
His score dropped 32.48% compared to June, but his positive image kept him in the top rankings. Fans appreciated his efforts in giving back to society, boosting his reputation.
Kim Yong Bin Climbs to Third Place with a Loyal Fanbase
Trot singer Kim Yong Bin ranked third with 2,354,924 points. His steady growth is credited to his strong fan community and consistent media presence.
Unlike other stars, Kim Yong Bin maintained a stable ranking without major fluctuations. His music and public appearances kept him in the spotlight.
Park Ji Hyun and Kiki Round Out the Top Five
Park Ji Hyun secured fourth place with 2,312,190 points. Her appearances on variety shows increased her visibility and engagement with audiences.
The girl group Kiki (Ji Yu, Lee Sol, Soo Yi, Ha Eum, Ki Ya) took fifth place with 1,852,334 points. Their upcoming comeback has generated excitement among fans.
Full Top 10 Rising Stars of July 2025
- Choo Young Woo – 2,902,305
- Byeon Woo Seok – 2,424,328
- Kim Yong Bin – 2,354,924
- Park Ji Hyun – 2,312,190
- Kiki – 1,852,334
- Jo Yu Ri
- Go Yoon Jung
- DAY6
- Lee Young Ji
- Jo Yi Hyun
Check out the top 30 for this month below!
- Choo Young Woo
- Byeon Woo Seok
- Kim Yong Bin
- Park Ji Hyeon
- KiiiKiii
- Jo Yuri
- Go Youn Jung
- DAY6
- Lee Young Ji
- Cho Yi Hyun
- ENHYPEN
- Lee Jun Young
- Park Jung Min
- Park Seo Jin
- Park Gyu Young
- Lee Jun Hyuk
- Mun Ka Young
- BIBI
- BABYMONSTER
- Lee Je Hoon
- Stray Kids
- Kim Do Yeong
- QWER
- Seo Kang Jun
- Lee Soo Ji
- Ahn Sung Hoon
- Choi Woo Shik
- Kim Hye Yoon
- Chae Soo Bin
- Car, the Garden
How the Rankings Are Calculated
The rankings are based on data collected from June 30 to July 30, 2025. The analysis includes:
- Media coverage – News articles and online mentions
- Consumer participation – Fan interactions and social media activity
- Community awareness – Discussions on forums and fan communities
This month’s data showed a 13.72% decrease in overall engagement compared to June. However, rising stars still maintained strong interest.
Industry Experts Explain the Trends
Goo Chang Hwan shared insights on the rankings:
“Byeon Woo Seok gained love through donation efforts, and Kim Yong Bin’s solid growth was thanks to his passionate fans.”
The rankings highlight how rising stars build their reputations through acting, music, and public engagement.
Rising Stars vs. Established Celebrities
While rising stars like Choo Young Woo dominate this list, established stars like BLACKPINK and BTS lead the general brand reputation rankings. The difference shows how new talents are making their mark in the industry.
What’s Next for the Rising Stars
Fans can expect more projects from these stars. Choo Young Woo continues to act in dramas, while Byeon Woo Seok is rumored to be in talks for a new film. Kim Yong Bin is preparing new music, and Kiki’s comeback is highly anticipated.
The August 2025 rankings will reveal if these stars can maintain their positions or if new names will rise.
Also read: Head Over Heels and Good Boy Dominate Buzzworthy Drama and Actor Rankings This Week
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