The K-Brand Index is a big data system developed by Asia Brand Lab. Unlike traditional big data analysis systems, it relies on a group of experts in each field to verify the processes from sample extraction to selection of the index.
According to Asia Brand Lab, the K-Brand Index for the Singer of the Year category analyzed 5,643,515,549 data points online from January 1 to November 30, 2024. The analysis targeted the 30 most searched soloists and groups on the portals.
Lim Young-woong tops the list, followed by Lee Chan-won in second place, IU in third, Rosé in fourth and Jang Won-young in fifth. Other notable names in the top 10 include Jennie (6th), Jeong Dong-won (7th), BTS’ Jimin (8th), An Yu-jin (9th) and Jungkook (10th).
The K-Brand Index evaluates leading brands in various categories using a weighted scoring system based on trends, media, social influence, community engagement, activation (TA), and positive-negative indices.
Ryu Won-seon, head of the Research Center at the Asia Brand Lab, commented: “This year’s key themes in the music industry were “trot stabilization” and “idol independence.” Trotting has solidified itself as a central genre in the music scene, moving beyond a passing trend, while artists like BTS’ Jimin and Jungkook and BLACKPINK’s Rosé and Jennie have demonstrated K-pop’s lasting influence through successful solo endeavors..”
Ryu added: “Lim Young-woong, who continues to expand his influence beyond Korea, has consolidated his position as Korea’s representative singer despite unexpected social controversies. Its formation of a “global fandom” further highlights its unique status. It should be noted, however, that the data is based solely on online indices, without incorporating offline factors.”
Meanwhile, Lim Young-woong’s DM controversy began on December 7 when he posted photos with his dog Siwol, celebrating his birthday with the caption: “Happy birthday to our Siwol.” However, a netizen criticized Lim Young-woong for his apparent indifference towards the current political situation and sent him a direct message, which sparked debate.
