Global K-pop powerhouse BTS has claimed the No.1 spot in the December 2025 Star Brand Reputation Rankings, reaffirming its unrivaled influence even during a group hiatus period.
According to data released by the Korea Corporate Reputation Research Institute, BTS ranked first among all stars based on a comprehensive analysis of 224,769,093 pieces of big data collected between November 30 and December 30, 2025. This represents a 1.01 percent increase compared to the previous month, signaling sustained public interest and engagement.
How the Rankings Are Calculated
The institute evaluates star brands through multiple indicators, including participation, media exposure, communication, and community engagement, all derived from consumer behavior patterns across online platforms. The brand reputation index reflects both positive and negative sentiment, as well as the depth of interaction between stars and the public.
The December analysis showed notable changes across categories, with brand consumption rising by 19.73 percent and brand issues increasing by 11.28 percent, while communication and diffusion saw slight declines.
Top Stars of December 2025
Following BTS at the top, Lim Young-woong secured second place, maintaining strong momentum through his deeply bonded fanbase. Actor Kim Woo-bin ranked third, drawing attention through both professional success and personal milestones.
The top 10 star brands for December were:
- BTS
- Lim Young-woong
- Kim Woo-bin
- Shin Min-a
- IVE
- Son Heung-min
- BLACKPINK
- Park Jung-min
- Jun Hyun-moo
- SEVENTEEN
Continued Anticipation for BTS’s Return
The research institute noted that anticipation surrounding BTS’s eventual full-group return continues to fuel public interest. As the members prepare for post-military activities, expectations for their next chapter remain exceptionally high.
Even without active group promotions, BTS’s dominance in brand reputation once again highlights the group’s enduring global presence and the powerful connection they maintain with fans worldwide.