Kim Soo Hyun ranks 4th in the 2025 Hallyu Survey despite ongoing controversy, while Lee Min Ho holds the top spot for the 12th year, showcasing their unshaken global fame
The 2025 Global Hallyu Survey results are out, and they show the unstoppable power of Korean entertainment stars. Released by South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange, this survey highlights the actors who keep winning hearts worldwide. Even with challenges, some stars shine brighter than ever, while others hold steady as global icons.
The survey, conducted late last year, asked 25,000 people from 26 countries to name their favorite Korean actors. Fans from places like the United States, Japan, Thailand, Brazil, and South Africa shared their picks, proving just how far the Korean Wave has spread.
Following the survey’s release on April 07, 2025, here’s the big news: Kim Soo Hyun grabs the fourth spot despite a tough year, whileLee Min Ho stays on top for the 12th year running. Let’s break it all down.
Kim Soo Hyun Weathers the Storm to Claim Fourth Place
Kim Soo Hyun has faced a whirlwind of controversy in 2025, yet his popularity hasn’t taken a hit. The actor, known for his deep and emotional performances, landed at No. 4 in the survey. This comes even after rumors swirled about an alleged underage relationship with the late actress Kim Sae Ron, who passed away recently.
The trouble started when posts on X and news reports claimed Kim Soo Hyun dated Kim Sae Ron when she was a minor. Some even pointed to a leaked voice recording suggesting he cheated during their rumored relationship. His agency, Gold Medalist, stepped in fast, denying the claims. They said any relationship happened when Kim Sae Ron was an adult and called the rumors baseless.
“The allegations tying Kim Soo Hyun to Kim Sae Ron when she was underage are completely false. Their brief relationship occurred years later when she was of legal age,” Gold Medalist stated firmly.
Despite the negative buzz, fans haven’t turned away. Many seem to focus on his work rather than the gossip. His latest hit drama, Queen of Tears, has kept viewers hooked with its emotional storytelling. The show, where he plays a lawyer caught in a messy divorce, has been praised for his raw and powerful acting. Past roles in My Love from the Star, It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, and One Ordinary Day also keep his name alive among international audiences.
Posts on X show a mix of reactions. Some fans rallied behind him, saying his talent outweighs the drama. Others questioned the timing of the rumors, especially with his steady rise. Either way, his No. 4 spot proves his global appeal is still rock solid.
Lee Min Ho Reigns Supreme for 12 Years Straight
At the top of the list, Lee Min Ho continues his reign as the king of Hallyu actors. For the 12th year in a row, he’s No. 1, a record that shows his unmatched staying power. Known for dramas like Boys Over Flowers, The Heirs, and The King: Eternal Monarch, he’s built a fanbase that spans Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
This year, though, his Asia tour hit a snag. Ticket sales have been slower than expected, sparking chatter online. Some compared it to Kim Soo Hyun’s sold-out fan meetings, wondering if Lee Min Ho’s charm is fading. But the survey says otherwise—his top ranking shows fans still adore him, even if live events tell a different story.
His latest project, Pachinko Season 2, has kept him in the spotlight. Playing a complex character in this global series, he’s earned praise for bringing depth to the role. Fans love his steady charm and the way he makes every character unforgettable.
Who Else Made the Top Five?
The rest of the top five is packed with talent, each bringing something special to the table.
Gong Yoo Secures Second Place
Gong Yoo takes No. 2, a spot he’s earned with his quiet strength and big roles. His zombie thriller Train to Busan made him a global name, and his cameo in Squid Game Season 2 last year reminded everyone of his star power. He also starred in The Trunk, a 2024 drama that showed off his range. Fans across Southeast Asia and Europe can’t get enough of his grounded, intense style.
Song Hye Kyo Lands Third
In third place is Song Hye Kyo, a queen of emotional depth. Her role in The Glory, a revenge drama that gripped viewers, brought her back into the spotlight. Known for hits like Descendants of the Sun, she’s a favorite in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Her grace and powerful acting keep her high on the list.
Lee Jong Suk Rounds Out the Top Five
Lee Jong Suk slides into fifth place, proving his charm endures even with a quiet year. He didn’t have big projects in 2024, but classics like Romance is a Bonus Book, Pinocchio, and Big Mouth keep fans loyal. His soft-spoken appeal resonates worldwide, landing him a solid spot.
What This Means for Hallyu in 2025
The 2025 survey shows how Korean actors keep breaking boundaries. Kim Soo Hyun’s ability to hold strong amid controversy proves fans value talent over headlines. Meanwhile, Lee Min Ho’s 12-year streak is a testament to his lasting impact.
Other names like Gong Yoo, Song Hye Kyo, and Lee Jong Suk show the variety of stars driving the Korean Wave. From action heroes to drama queens, they’re keeping K-dramas and films alive on the global stage.
