The ranking of the “Most anticipated singers in 2025”, drawn up by the Korean media News1, has finally been revealed. The list was created together with 34 pop music experts containing their explanations of their respective choices.
BTS, who will complete their military service in 2025, ranked first with a total of five votes. The septet had been so popular around the world but they had to suspend the entire groups schedule due to the members’ military service starting in 2022.
Jin, the oldest member, enlisted first in December of that year, followed by J-Hope in April 2023.
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Subsequently, Suga began mandatory military service as a social service worker in September 2023, and RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook enlisted as active duty soldiers in December 2023.
In June 2025, all seven members will be complete, so fans are already showing great interest in the activities of the complete group.
“It’s the time when the full group will return, so we’re looking forward to their and the members’ activities,” explained a music industry insider who picked BTS as the most anticipated singer of 2025.
“BTS maintained their power this year despite being in the military, and will remain at the top of K-pop in 2025,” added another expert.
“Just the news of BTS’ return is enough to push HYBE’s stock higher and change the outlook for the K-pop industry, making them a very symbolic force,” assessed by a professional.
After BTS, BIGBANG leader G-Dragon took second place after getting four votes, just one vote less than the boy group. He initially sparked high expectations in 2024 after releasing “POWER,” his first solo song in seven years. It also generated more anticipation with its pre-release “HOME SWEET HOME”, featuring Taeyang and Daesung.
The team is said to be preparing for its return in 2026 to commemorate its 20th debut anniversary, G-Dragon told MK Sports.
Behind the artists mentioned above is aespa who obtained three votes.
In 2024, the quartet made consecutive hits, such as “Supernova”, “Armageddon” and “Whiplash”.
In fourth place, RIIZE and MEOVV tied with two votes each, while IST Entertainment’s new girl group 82Major, NewJeans, Dynamic Duo, DAY6, LUCY, RESCENE, MONSTA N.Flying, YOUNG POSSE, YOUNITE, PLAYBACK and WHIB received 1 vote each and they secured fifth place.
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