Top 50 Most Popular South Korean Singers

 

K-pop is slowly and steadily taking over world music both in popularity, style and in quantity. The number of popular K-pop artists who have huge fan bases around the world has increased tremendously over the years.

 

We can see a clear indication of the kind of response bands like BTS, Big Bang, Super Junior, EXO, Girls’ Generation, etc. get when they perform abroad. It is only in the early 2000s that Hallyu started to take over the world with Korean drama, movies, and music getting recognition.

 

However, artists like TVXQ, SHINee, BoA, IU, Xia, etc., gained massive fan bases with their performances. They also sang in other languages and included English rap in their songs. Another popular feature of K-pop songs is their infectious dance numbers, peppy tracks with eye-catching choreography, and good-looking singers.

 

With these strong points, they were able to overcome language barriers and reach out to an international audience. As the fans grew in number, so did the competition for fame and popularity.

 

ENTOIN is here to help you figure out who is the most popular with strong and dedicated fan groups. Here is a list of the most popular South Korean singers, both male and female.

 

However, we have to point out that this list is not indicative of their talent alone but a mixture of talent, personality, fan support, etc.

 

 

 

1. IU

 

 

IU, also known as Lee Ji-eun, is a South Korean singer, songwriter, and actress who is famous for her stunning vocal abilities and unique musical style. She debuted in 2008 and quickly gained popularity for her youthful and innocent image as well as her impressive songwriting skills.

 

IU has released numerous hit songs and albums throughout her career, including “Good Day,” “Palette,” and “Celebrity,” among others. She is known for her versatile vocal range and ability to adapt to various musical genres, including pop, ballad, and folk.

 

Aside from her music career, IU has pursued acting, appearing in several Korean dramas and movies like Pretty Man, The Producers, Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo, etc. She is widely regarded as one of the most influential and successful solo artists in the K-pop industry, known for her unique style and emotional performances.

 

She also has performed internationally on several tours.

 

 

 

2. Jungkook (BTS)

 

 

Jungkook, also known as Jeon Jungkook, is a South Korean singer, songwriter, and dancer who is famous as the youngest member of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS. He joined the group in 2013 as a vocalist and dancer and has since become known for his impressive vocal range, powerful performances, and stunning visuals.

 

Jungkook has contributed to BTS’s success by co-writing and co-producing several of their hit songs, including “Dynamite,” “Butter,” and “Life Goes On.” He is also known for his dancing skills and has received praise for his energetic and precise performances.

 

Jungkook is widely regarded as a role model and inspiration to fans around the world, known for his dedication, hard work, and humility. He has won numerous awards for his contributions to music and has helped BTS become one of the most successful and influential K-pop groups in history.

 

 

 

3. Taeyeon (Girls’ Generation)

 

 

Taeyeon is a South Korean singer, songwriter, and actress who is famous as the leader of the popular K-pop girl group Girls’ Generation. She debuted with the group in 2007 and quickly gained popularity for her powerful vocals and emotive voice.

 

Taeyeon has since become one of the most successful solo artists in the K-pop industry, releasing several hit songs and albums, including “I,” “Fine,” and “Purpose.” She has also received critical acclaim for her live performances and has won numerous awards for her contributions to music.

 

Aside from her music career, Taeyeon has appeared in several Korean variety shows. She is widely regarded as one of the most talented and influential artists in the K-pop industry, known for her impressive vocal range and emotional performances.

 

Her popularity and influence have helped Girls’ Generation become one of the most successful K-pop groups of all time.

 

 

 

4. Taeyang (BigBang)

 

 

Taeyang, a renowned vocalist and dancer, is known from his days as a BigBang member and solo artist. His artistry blends soulful R&B with electrifying dance moves, captivating audiences globally. 

 

He’s known for hits like “Wedding Dress” and “Eyes, Nose, Lips,” showcasing his emotional depth and musical versatility. Taeyang’s solo career skyrocketed with “Hot,” winning Best R&B & Soul Album. His chart-topping albums “Solar” and “Rise” cemented his global status.

 

Taeyang is a fashion icon, inspiring trends with his bold style. He’s also a respected songwriter, contributing to BigBang’s success. He inspires countless artists with his dedication, talent, and charisma, solidifying his place as a K-pop legend.
 

 

 

5. Baekhyun (Exo)

 

 

Baekhyun is a South Korean singer, songwriter, and actor who rose to fame as a member of the popular K-pop boy band EXO. He debuted as a member of EXO in 2012 and quickly gained popularity for his powerful tenor voice, standout performances, and captivating stage presence.

 

Baekhyun has since released numerous hit songs with EXO and as a solo artist, including “Love Shot,” “UN Village,” and “Candy,” among others. He has also received critical acclaim for his live performances and has won several awards for his contributions to the K-pop industry.

 

He won three consecutive  Mnet Asian Music Awards for Best Male Artist from 2019 to 2021. Aside from his music career, Baekhyun has also pursued acting, starring in the Korean dramas “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo” and “Record of Youth,” among others.

 

He is widely regarded as one of the most talented and influential artists in the K-pop industry.

 

 

6. Chen (Exo)

 

 

Chen, whose real name is Kim Jong-dae, is a South Korean singer and songwriter who is a member of the popular boy band Exo. He is known for his soulful voice and impressive vocal range, which has earned him a dedicated fanbase.

 

Chen joined Exo in 2011 and made his debut with the group in 2012. He has released several hit songs with Exo, including “Growl,” “Call Me Baby,” and “Love Shot.” Chen has also released solo music, including the album “April, and a Flower,” which debuted at number one on the Gaon Album Chart in 2019.

 

In addition to his music career, Chen has also made appearances in several television dramas and variety shows. He is known for his charming personality and quick wit, which has endeared him to fans around the world.

 

 

7. Rosé (Blackpink)

 

 

Rosé, whose real name is Roseanne Park, is a South Korean singer and dancer who is famous as a member of the K-pop girl group Blackpink. She was born in New Zealand and raised in Australia before moving to South Korea to pursue her music career.

 

Rosé is known for her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence, which have earned her a huge following around the world. Rosé made her debut as a member of Blackpink in 2016 and has since become one of the group’s most popular members.

 

She has contributed to many of the group’s hit songs, including “Whistle,” “Playing with Fire,” and “Kill This Love.” Rosé has also released solo music, including her debut single “On The Ground” in 2021, which has been well-received by fans and critics alike.

 

She is known for her unique fashion sense and has become a fashion icon, appearing in campaigns for luxury brands such as Saint Laurent.

 

 

8. Jimin (BTS)

 

 

Park Jimin, commonly known by his stage name Jimin, is a South Korean singer, dancer, and songwriter. He was born on October 13, 1995, in Busan, South Korea. Jimin rose to fame as a member of the internationally acclaimed boy band BTS, which debuted in 2013 under Big Hit Entertainment.

 

BTS has gained immense popularity for their unique blend of hip-hop, pop, and rock music, along with their socially conscious lyrics that address issues such as mental health and societal pressure.

 

Jimin is known for his impressive vocal range and dynamic dance skills, which he often showcases in BTS’s energetic and visually stunning performances. He has also been credited with co-writing several of BTS’s hit songs, including “Lie,” “Serendipity,” and “Filter.” Jimin has amassed a huge following of fans worldwide and is considered a role model for his dedication, hard work, and positive attitude.

 

 

9. Wendy (Red Velvet)

 

 

Wendy, also known as Shon Seung-wan, is a South Korean singer, voice actress, and radio host. She was cast by SM Entertainment when she accompanied a friend to the S. M. Global Audition in Canada in 2012. Wendy debuted as a member of Red Velvet in August 2014, collaborated with rapper Yuk Jidam for the song “Return” and released another song “Let You Know” for the soundtrack of the JTBC drama D-Day.

 

Wendy participated in We Got Married and King of Mask Singer and collaborated with Eric Nam on a duet titled “Spring Love” and Ricky Martin’s single “Vente Pa’ Ca”. She also participated in several SM Station projects, released solo soundtracks for TV dramas, and became a holographic avatar of SK Telecom’s new AI voice assistant speaker, ‘Holobox’.

 

In 2021, she debuted as a solo artist with the EP Like Water, and in 2022, she became a member of SM’s supergroup Got the Beat.

 

 

10. Psy

 

 

Psy, a South Korean rapper, debuted in 2000 on Korean national television, and his career was marked by controversy due to his music’s content. His third album’s title song, “Champion,” gained success due to the World Cup games held in Seoul.

 

After facing financial difficulties, he joined the South Korean music label YG Entertainment in 2010, and his fifth album’s lead single “Right Now” was banned from under-19 audiences. In 2012, Psy released his sixth album “Psy 6 (Six Rules), Part 1” and the song “Gangnam Style”.

 

It was his biggest hit. In 2013, he released his follow-up single “Gentleman” and invested US$2.7 million into its production. Psy also promoted “Gentleman” by appearing on various TV shows and co-hosted the Canadian MuchMusic Video Awards.

 

In 2022, he released his ninth studio album, Psy 9th, with its lead single “That That” featuring Suga of BTS.

 

 

11. Kim Jonghyun (SHINee)

 

 

Jonghyun was a South Korean singer, songwriter, and radio host. He was scouted by SM Entertainment at the age of 15 and debuted as part of the five-member boy group Shinee in 2008.

 

Jonghyun started contributing to the group as a songwriter in 2009, writing the lyrics to their fourth Korean single, “Juliette”. In 2010, he participated in SM the Ballad, a project group formed by SM Entertainment.

 

In 2015, Jonghyun made his solo debut with his first EP Base, which received critical acclaim. It peaked at number one on both the Billboard World Albums Chart and the Gaon Album Chart.

 

He also composed and wrote songs for other artists and held his first solo concert in August 2015. He remained musically active till December 2017, when he passed away due to carbon monoxide poisoning.

 

His final album, “Poet Artist,” was released posthumously.

 

 

12. Jihyo (TWICE)

 

 

Park Ji-hyo is known mononymously as Jihyo and started her career by joining the reality show Sixteen. The show aimed to create the girl group Twice. She became a successful participant and was selected as the leader of the group.

 

Twice debuted in October 2015 with the EP “The Story Begins,” and their lead single “Like Ooh-Ahh” set a record as the first K-pop debut song to reach 100 million views on YouTube.

 

Jihyo released her first OST, “Stardust Love Song,” for tvN’s Twenty-Five Twenty-One in March 2022 and her second OST “I Fly” for SBS’s Today’s Webtoon in July 2022. Apart from singing, Jihyo was also a model and a rookie actress.

 

She modelled for Innisfree’s teen line. She was also announced as the brand model for the South Korean cosmetics brand Milk Touch in January 2023.

 

 

13. Younha

 

 

Younha is a South Korean singer who found mainstream success in Japan with her second Japanese single “Houkiboshi,” which was included in the anime series Bleach soundtrack. Her third single “Touch / Yume no Tsuzuki” was successful and brought her back into the Oricon top 20.

 

Younha’s debut album, “Go! Younha,” had moderate success in Japan. However, her next three singles failed to replicate the success of her earlier efforts. Younha enrolled at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies and began her debut in Korea, releasing a digital Korean single album titled “Audition,” which charted well for over three months on all Korean charts.

 

In 2007, Younha released her first Korean album entitled “The Perfect Day to Say I Love You,” which was a success, peaking at #1 on the charts. She released her sophomore album titled “Someday” in 2008, which spawned two hit singles, “Telepathy” and “Gossip Boy.”

 

 

14. D.O (Exo)

 

 

D. O. is a South Korean singer and actor born on January 12, 1993. He began singing in primary school and participated in local singing competitions throughout high school, where he was advised to audition for SM Entertainment.

 

D. O. was formally introduced as the eighth member of Exo in January 2012 and debuted with the group on April 8, 2012. He made his acting debut in the movie “Cart” in September 2014, and his small-screen debut in the drama “It’s Okay, That’s Love” in the same year.

 

D. O. has received recognition for his acting roles, including a Best New Actor award at the Blue Dragon Film Awards. He also starred in the successful drama “100 Days My Prince” and served in the military from July 2019 to January 2021.

 

After being discharged from the military, he returned to acting with drama series and variety shows.

 

 

15. Jin (BTS)

 

 

Jin, also known as Kim Seok-jin, is a South Korean singer, songwriter, and actor who is famous as a member of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS. He joined BTS in 2013 as a vocalist and has since become known for his impressive vocals, charming personality, and stunning visuals.

 

Jin has contributed to BTS’s success by co-writing and co-producing several of their hit songs, including “Epiphany” and “Moon.” He is also known for his hosting skills and has appeared in several Korean shows and variety shows.

 

Jin is widely regarded as a role model and inspiration to fans around the world and is known for his kindness, humour, and hard work. He has won numerous awards for his contributions to music and has helped BTS become one of the most successful and influential K-pop groups in history.

 

 

16. Kyuhyun (Super Junior)

 

 

Kyuhyun is a South Korean singer, actor and television host. He officially debuted in 2006 as a member of Super Junior, a 13-member boy band. Shortly after his debut, Kyuhyun along with two other members formed Super Junior-K. R. Y., the first sub-group of Super Junior. In 2008, he joined Super Junior-M, a sub-group that debuted in China. Kyuhyun released his first solo track “Smile” in 2007. He has also collaborated with other artists such as The Grace and TVXQ.

 

In 2010, he joined the project group S. M. The Ballad. Kyuhyun has also acted in musical productions, such as The Three Musketeers and Catch Me If You Can. He has also hosted several television shows, including Foresight, Radio Star, and We Got Married.

 

 

17. Ryeowook (Super Junior)

 

 

Ryeowook is a South Korean singer, actor, and composer who made his debut in 2005 as a member of the 12-member project group Super Junior. In 2006, he formed a subgroup named Super Junior K. R. Y. with Kyuhyun and Yesung, specialising in R&B ballads. He also made his acting debut in 2007 with Attack on the Pin-Up Boys and was nominated for Best Supporting Actor and Best Comedic Performance at the Korean Movie Awards.

 

In 2008, he joined Super Junior-M, a Mandopop subgroup of Super Junior for the Chinese music industry. Ryeowook made his solo debut in 2016 with the release of his first official solo album titled The Little Prince.

 

He held his first solo concert in February 2016 and released his third solo album, A Wild Rose, in May 2022.

 

 

18. Yesung (Super Junior)

 

 

Yesung is a South Korean singer and actor. His name means “art-like voice.” He has a tenor voice and debuted in November 2005 as a member of the 12-member project group Super Junior.

 

He also hosted a radio program, M. I. R. A. C. L. E for You. He was part of the subgroup Super Junior-K. R. Y., specialising in R&B ballads. In 2007, he made his acting debut in the movie Attack on the Pin-Up Boys.

 

Yesung also became a member of Super Junior-H in 2008 and made his musical theatre debut in Namhansanseong in 2009. He starred in the title role of the musical Hong Gil Dong in 2010.

 

He also contributed to the OST of the television drama Cinderella’s Sister. Yesung also appeared as a host of MBC’s Love Pursuer in 2010. He began his solo career in 2016 with his first extended play, Here I Am.

 

 

19. Solar (Mamamoo)

 

 

Solar (birth name is Kim Yong-sun) is a South Korean singer known as a member and vocalist of the group Mamamoo. She made her debut in 2014 and appeared in the 2015 web drama Imaginary Cat.

 

In 2016, she participated in the variety show We Got Married with Eric Nam and won the Best Couple Award at the 2016 MBC Entertainment Awards. In 2018, she released her first solo EP “Solar’s Emotion”.

 

Solar made her official solo debut in 2020 with the single “Spit It Out” and won her first music show award as a solo artist. She has since become a judge for various singing/audition programs and won her second award as an entertainer for her work in “The Legend, The New Singer” and “Boss in the Mirror” at the 2021 KBS Entertainment Awards.

 

In 2022, Solar released her first mini-album 容: Face and joined as a judge for JTBC’s “A Star Is Born” singing competition. She also collaborated with Yesung on the single “After Love” and is set to release the title song “Paradise” for Channel S’ DJ Survival competition show ‘WET!: World EDM Trend’.

 

 

20. Nayeon (TWICE)

 

 

Im Na-yeon, who is famous by the stage name Nayeon, is a South Korean singer who gained fame as a member of the girl group Twice. The group was formed through the reality TV show “Sixteen” in 2015.

 

She made her debut with the group with their first EP “The Story Begins,” later that year. In May 2022, Nayeon announced her solo debut and released her EP “Im Nayeon” in June.

 

She won Best Female Artist at the 2022 MAMA Awards and her first music show win on SBS Inkigayo. In addition to her music career, Nayeon has worked as a model for various brands and appeared in magazines, including Nylon Korea, Cosmopolitan Korea, and Elle Korea.

 

She has also endorsed brands such as Smart School Uniform, Fendi, and Givenchy Beauty.

 

 

21. Ailee

 

 

Ailee is a Korean-American singer who made her debut in 2012 with the EP “Invitation”. She won several awards, including the Best New Artist Award at the Seoul Music Awards, Melon Music Awards, Mnet Asian Music Awards, and Golden Disk Awards in 2012.

 

Her second EP “A’s Doll House” was released in 2013, and the title track “U&I” topped various music charts within four hours of release. In 2014, she released a single titled “Singing Got Better” and her third EP “Magazine”.

 

In 2015, she released her first full-length album Vivid and won the Best Female Vocal Award for the third consecutive year at the 2015 Mnet Asian Music Awards. She released her EP “A New Empire” in 2016 and won the Best Vocal Performance for “If You” at the 2016 Mnet Asian Music Awards.

 

She also achieved success with the ballad “I Will Go to You Like the First Snow” in 2017, which topped the Gaon Digital Chart for three consecutive weeks.

 

 

22. BoA

 

 

BoA (Kwon Bo-ah) is a South Korean singer and dancer who started her music career in 2000. She was discovered by SM Entertainment talent scouts when she was 11 years old and was offered a contract on the same night.

 

After two years of training, she debuted with her album ID; Peace B in South Korea and Don’t Start Now in Japan. Her breakthrough in Japan came with her album Listen to My Heart, which became the first album by a Korean artist to debut atop the Oricon chart.

 

BoA’s success continued with her second Korean studio album, No. 1, and her second Japanese studio album, Valenti. She continued to release successful albums and tours, and reinvented her image for her fourth and fifth Korean albums, shedding her “cute” and “youthful” style for a more “sexy” and “sultry” look.

 

 

23. Onew (SHINee)

 

 

Onew is a South Korean singer, songwriter, actor, and host born on December 14, 1989, in Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi-do. He was discovered at the 2006 SM Academy Casting and signed a contract with SM Entertainment the day after his audition.

 

He debuted as the lead vocalist and leader of the boy group Shinee in May 2008, and the group went on to become one of the best-selling artists in South Korea.

 

Besides his music career, Onew also starred in various musicals and TV dramas, including Brothers Were Brave, Rock of Ages, Descendants of the Sun, and Law of the Jungle. He also tried his hand at songwriting and was an MC of various programs and events.

 

In addition, he gained experience in radio hosting, including taking over Kiss the Radio.

 

 

24. Irene (Red Velvet)

 

 

Irene is a beautiful singer with honey vocals. She is the leader and lead vocalist of Red Velvet, a versatile K-pop girl group. Her elegance and charisma are undeniable, earning her the title “Queen of K-Pop.”

 

Irene effortlessly glides between Red Velvet’s vibrant concepts, from the bubbly “Red Flavor” to the sultry “Bad Boy.” Her voice shines in ballads like “Rebirth,” showcasing her emotional range and delicate control.

 

Beyond music, Irene also modelled and acted. She starred in “Double Patty” and in “The World of My 17.” Irene’s leadership guides Red Velvet to new heights. Whether singing, acting, or modelling, Irene exudes an effortless grace that defines her artistry and career.
 

 

 

25. Changmin  (TVXQ)

 

 

Changmin is a South Korean singer, songwriter, and actor known for being a member of the pop duo TVXQ. He was scouted by an SM Entertainment talent agent when he was fourteen years old and debuted as TVXQ’s youngest member in December 2003.

 

Changmin is fluent in both Korean and Japanese and has achieved commercial success throughout Asia as the main vocalist of TVXQ. The group has been releasing number-one albums in Korea since their second studio album Rising Sun and made their Japanese debut in 2005.

 

After members Jaejoong, Yoochun, and Junsu left the group in 2010, Changmin and Yunho continued as a duo, setting sales records and concert attendance records in Japan. Changmin released his first Japanese solo mini-album Close to You in 2015 and his official Korean solo debut mini-album Chocolate in 2020.

 

 

26. Daesung (Big Bang)

 

 

Daesung, born Kang Dae-sung in Seoul, is a South Korean singer and songwriter. He was recruited by YG Entertainment as a trainee after succeeding in an audition and was integrated into the formation of the boy group Big Bang, which debuted in 2006.

 

After being diagnosed with voice cord nodules and developing social phobia and stage fright, he recovered with the help of fellow singer and label-mate Gummy. Daesung also pursued a solo career, releasing several singles, including his first trot single “Look at Me, Gwisoon” in 2008.

 

He was a permanent cast member of the SBS reality-variety show Family Outing and hosted MBC’s music program Show! Music Core. He also starred in the Korean production of Cats and hosted the variety talk show Night After Night.

 

 

27. Lee Hi

 

 

Lee Ha-yi, known as Lee Hi, is a South Korean singer and songwriter who became popular after being the runner-up in the K-pop Star 1 competition. She debuted as a solo artist with the digital single “1, 2, 3, 4” in 2012, which topped the charts and earned her a Song of the Year award.

 

She released her first album First Love in 2013, followed by collaborations with other artists such as 2NE1’s Park Bom and Akdong Musician’s Lee Su-hyun. In 2016, Lee Hi released the album Seoulite, which won her the Digital Bonsang award.

 

She made her Japanese debut in 2018 and released a cover of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” for a film collaboration. In 2019, she had a career resurgence with her EP 24°C, which topped all South Korean charts.

 

She signed with the hip-hop R&B label AOMG in 2020, where she released the album 4 Only.

 

 

28. Dean

 

 

Dean (Kwon Hyuk) is a South Korean alternative R&B singer-songwriter, rapper, and record producer born on November 10, 1992. He debuted in the United States in July 2015 with the single “I’m Not Sorry” featuring Eric Bellinger.

 

In 2016, he released his debut EP, “130 Mood: TRBL,” and collaborated with Korean hip-hop artists such as Zico, Zion. T, Crush, and Junggigo. Dean was part of the hip-hop crew Fanxy Child with Zico, Crush, Penomeco, Millic, and Stay Tuned.

 

From 2017 to 2019, Dean gained widespread recognition for his music, collaborations with other artists, and work as a music producer. He released the single album “Limbo” and won the hip-hop audition show “Show Me the Money 6” as a producer with Zico.

 

He also released the single “Instagram,” which topped local music charts in South Korea.

 

 

29. Youngjae (GOT7)

 

 

Choi Young-jae, known professionally as Youngjae, is a South Korean singer-songwriter and actor born on September 17, 1996. He dreamed of becoming a singer in his childhood and trained as a professional at a music academy in Mokpo.

 

In 2013, he became a trainee at JYP Entertainment and debuted as the main vocalist of the seven-member boy group Got7 in January 2014. Youngjae has been writing songs and lyrics under the name Ars since 2016 and has collaborated with various artists on multiple projects.

 

In 2021, after his contract with JYP Entertainment expired, he signed with Sublime Artist Agency. He made his solo debut in October 2021 with the extended play “Colors from Ars” and its title track “Vibin”.

 

 

30. Hyolyn

 

 

Hyolyn (Kim Hyo-jung) is a South Korean singer and actress born in Incheon in 1990. She auditioned for JYP Entertainment two times before being accepted and debuted as a member of the girl group Sistar in 2010.

 

Hyolyn became the leader of the group, which was praised for its fresh faces and vocal abilities. She also formed the sub-group Sistar19 in early 2011. Hyolyn made her solo debut in 2013 with the album Love & Hate.

 

She has also acted in the KBS drama Dream High Season 2 and starred in several OSTs. Hyolyn was the first idol group singer to participate in the Chuseok special of the music variety show I Am a Singer.

 

She left Sistar in 2017 and continued her solo career.

 

 

31. Jaejoong

 

 

Jaejoong (Kim Jae-joong) is a South Korean singer, songwriter, and actor. He auditioned and was accepted by S. M. Entertainment in 2001. From 2003 to 2010, he was the lead vocalist of TVXQ.

 

In 2009, Jaejoong, along with two other members, left TVXQ and founded JYJ. He composed songs for TVXQ and JYJ and sang the solo track “Insa” for A Millionaire’s First Love’s soundtrack.

 

JYJ’s English language debut album, The Beginning, was released in 2010, and their Korean EP, Their Rooms “Our Story,” was released in 2011. In 2013, he released his first solo Korean EP titled I/MINE, which he wrote all the lyrics for.

 

Jaejoong’s first full-length Korean solo album, WWW, was released in 2013. His other albums include No. X (2016), and Born Gene (2022).

 

 

32. Eunkwang (BtoB)

 

 

Eunkwang (Seo Eunkwang) is a South Korean singer, songwriter, and actor. He debuted as the leader and main vocalist of BtoB, a boy group under Cube Entertainment, in 2012. He contributed as a lyricist to the group’s fourth mini-album, Beep Beep, with the song “Melody”.

 

During his military enlistment, BtoB continued promotions without him, with Minhyuk and Sungjae as leaders. Eunkwang also engaged in solo activities, acting in musicals and joining tvN’s variety show SNL Korea 5.

 

He released a digital single with Yoo Sung-eun and sang the OST for the drama Mask. After his discharge, he released his debut EP “FoRest: Entrance” and became the first artist in Cube Entertainment to reach a director position within the agency.

 

He also formed a unit called BtoB 4U with three other members and released their first mini-album “Inside”.

 

 

33. Eric Nam

 

 

Eric Nam is a Korean-American singer who began his career after posting a cover on YouTube, which attracted the attention of MBC, a South Korean broadcasting company. They invited him to participate in Star Audition: Birth of a Great Star 2.

 

Nam was placed within the top five contestants, boosting his career. Nam signed with B2M Entertainment in 2012 and made his debut with the EP “Cloud 9” in 2013. He also appeared on Arirang TV’s interactive show After School Club.

 

He became a go-to personality for international celebrity interviews in South Korea. In 2018, Nam released his third EP, “Honestly,” and embarked on the Honestly Tour in North America. He was ranked on GQ Korea’s Man of the Year, Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia, YouTube Music’s Global Trending Artists on the Rise, etc.

 

 

34. Crush

 

 

Crush is a South Korean R&B singer-songwriter who debuted in 2014. He released his first album, Crush on You, in 2014, which won Best R&B & Soul Album at the 12th Korean Music Awards.

 

He collaborated with Gaeko for the single “Hug Me” and sang the OST “Sleepless Night” for the SBS drama “It’s Okay, That’s Love.” In 2015, he collaborated with Zion. T for the single “Just” and won Best Collaboration at the 17th Mnet Asian Music Awards.

 

Crush became an active member of the hip-hop crew Fanxy Child in 2016. In 2019, he released his critically acclaimed second full-length album From Midnight To Sunrise, which won R&B Album of the Year at the Korean Hip-hop Awards.

 

 

35. Soobin (TXT)

 

 

Soobin is a South Korean singer, rapper, and dancer who is best known as the leader and main vocalist of the K-pop boy group TXT (Tomorrow X Together). TXT debuted in 2019 under the label Big Hit Entertainment and quickly gained popularity for its unique blend of pop, rock, and hip-hop music styles.

 

Soobin is known for his strong and expressive vocals, as well as his charming personality and leadership skills. He has also been praised for his impressive dance skills and stage presence during the group’s live performances.

 

TXT won multiple awards like Golden Disk Award, Melon Music Award, Gaon Chart Music Awards, etc. Soobin has become a beloved figure among K-pop fans around the world and continues to gain recognition for his talent and hard work in the industry.

 

 

36. Bada (S.E.S)

 

 

Bada is a South Korean singer, actress, and musical actress. She is best known as a former member of the popular girl group S. E. S, which debuted in 1997 under SM Entertainment.

 

Bada is famous for her powerful vocals and her contributions to the Korean pop music industry. She has released several successful solo albums, including “A Day of Renew” and “See the Sea”.

 

She has won numerous awards and accolades for her music, including “Best Female Solo Artist” at the Korean Music Awards. Apart from her music career, Bada has also made a name for herself as an actress, appearing in several Korean dramas and musicals.

 

She has won critical acclaim for her performances in musicals such as “Gone with the Wind” and “Chicago”. In 2015, she was appointed as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador for South Korea.

 

 

37. Gummy

 

 

Gummy is the stage name of singer Park Ji-yeon, known for her powerful vocals and emotional ballads. She made her debut in 2003 with the album “Like Them” and quickly gained popularity for her soulful voice and heartfelt performances.

 

Gummy is famous for her hit songs such as “Memory Loss”, “If You Come Back to Me”, and “You Are My Everything”, which were featured in popular Korean dramas and movies.

 

She has won numerous awards and accolades for her music, including multiple “Best Female Artist” awards and “Song of the Year” awards at various music award shows in South Korea.

 

In addition to her music career, Gummy has also made a name for herself as an actress, appearing in several Korean dramas and films. She made her acting debut in 2008 in the drama “The Return of Iljimae” and has since appeared in other popular dramas such as “Descendants of the Sun” and “When the Camellia Blooms”.

 

 

38. Lee Sun-hee

 

 

Lee Sun-hee is a South Korean singer who gained fame as Korea’s National Diva. She is considered one of the most influential and respected singers in the Korean music industry and is famous for her emotional ballads and operatic soprano voice.

 

Lee Sun-hee has released numerous hit songs throughout her career, including “To J”, “Fate”, and “Meet Him Among Them”. She has won many awards and accolades for her music, including multiple “Best Female Artist” awards and “Song of the Year” awards at various music award shows in South Korea.

 

In addition to her music career, Lee Sun-hee has also appeared on various Korean TV shows, including “I Am a Singer” and “Sugar Man”, where she showcased her vocal talents and impressed audiences with her performances.

 

 

39. Hongki  (F.T. Island)

 

 

Lee Hong-gi is a South Korean singer, actor, and songwriter. He is best known as the lead vocalist of the popular rock band FT Island, which debuted in 2007 under FNC Entertainment.

 

Hongki has been praised for his unique voice, energetic stage presence, and emotional performances. Apart from his music career, Hongki has also made a name for himself as an actor, appearing in several Korean dramas and films.

 

He made his acting debut in the drama “You’re Beautiful” in 2009, and has since appeared in other popular dramas such as “Bride of the Century” and “Hwayugi” Lee Hong-gi has also been recognized for his philanthropy, supporting various charitable causes and organisations.

 

He is known for his love of animals and has actively advocated for animal rights and welfare.

 

 

40. Eunji (APINK)

 

 

Jung Eun-ji, better known as Eunji, is a South Korean singer, actress, and songwriter. She is best known as a member of the South Korean girl group Apink, which debuted in 2011 under the label Plan A Entertainment.

 

Eunji is famous for her powerful vocals and charming personality. She has been recognized for her vocal talent through numerous awards and nominations. In 2018, she won the “Best Female Solo Artist” award at the Korean Entertainment Arts Awards.

 

Apart from her music career, Eunji has also made a name for herself as an actress, appearing in several Korean dramas and films. She made her acting debut in the drama “Reply 1997” in 2012, and has since appeared in other popular dramas such as “Sassy Go Go” and “Untouchable”.

 

 

41. So Chan-whee

 

 

So Chan-whee is a South Korean singer who made her debut in 1995 with the album “Words I Want to Say to You”. She is known for her powerful vocals and emotional ballads.

 

Some of her most popular songs include “Tears”, “Tears of the Dragon”, and “Wind Flower”. So Chan-whee has been active in the Korean music industry for over two decades and has released several albums throughout her career.

 

She has won numerous awards and accolades for her music, including several “Best Female Artist” awards and “Song of the Year” awards at various music award shows in South Korea.

 

In addition to her music career, So Chan-whee has also appeared on various Korean TV shows, including “Immortal Songs 2” and “I Am a Singer”, where she showcased her vocal talents and impressed audiences with her performances.

 

 

42. Yonghwa  (CNBLUE)

 

 

Jung Yong-hwa is the birth name of Yonghwa who is a South Korean musician, singer, songwriter, actor, and record producer. He debuted as the leader and guitarist of the rock band CNBLUE in 2009.

 

He released his first solo digital single “For First Time Lovers” in 2011 and debuted as a solo artist in 2015 with the album “One Fine Day.” Jung has composed several notable singles for CNBLUE, including “Can’t Stop.” He has also composed for other artists and produced “Fool” for Juniel and “Love is Only You” for AOA.

 

Jung has acted in several Korean dramas, including “You’re Beautiful,” “Heartstrings,” and “The Three Musketeers.” He is a full member of the Korea Music Copyright Association.

 

 

43. Kihyun (MONSTA X)

 

 

Kihyun is the stage name of Yoo Ki-hyun who is a South Korean singer and member of the boy group Monsta X. He debuted in 2015 after competing in the survival show No. Mercy. He made a name for himself as the “K-pop God,” “Vocal God,” and “The K in K-pop.” Kihyun has also participated in producing and writing lyrics for various songs for Monsta X albums.

 

He has released several solo OSTs for various TV dramas, including “One More Step” and “Love Virus”. Kihyun made his solo debut with the single album Voyager in March 2022 and later released his first EP Youth in October 2022.

 

He has also appeared on several TV shows, including King of Mask Singer and Night Studio, and has worked as a DJ for Naver Now’s Midnight Idol.

 

 

44. Lim Young-woong

 

 

Lim Young-woong is a South Korean singer who initially aimed to be a ballad singer, but discovered his talent for trot music. After participating in various singing contests, Lim gained popularity through his appearances on KBS1’s morning show, AM Plaza, and released several singles.

 

However, he gained national fame when he competed and won the TV Chosun’s music competition show, Mr Trot, in 2020. Lim signed a one-and-a-half-year management contract with New Era Project, releasing a single titled “Trust in Me”.

 

He reached the number 1 spot with his single “My Starry Love.” He also made his debut as an emcee, and starred in Mr Trot: The Movie. He has won multiple awards for his music, including a Melon Music Award for Best Trot and a Genie Music Award for Best Trot Track.

 

 

45. Park Bom  (2NE1)

 

 

Park Bom is a South Korean singer who started her music career as a trainee at YG Entertainment. She collaborated with many of the other artists of YG Entertainment like Big Bang, Lexy, Mastaa Wu, etc.

 

She became the main vocalist of 2NE1 alongside CL, Dara, and Minzy and debuted in 2009. In the same year, she released her first solo single “You and I,” which won Best Digital Single at the 2010 Mnet Asian Music Awards.

 

In 2014, she was investigated for drug smuggling through international mail, which negatively impacted her career. She later appeared with 2NE1 at the 2015 Mnet Asian Music Awards and participated in their final song “Goodbye” in 2017.

 

In 2018, she signed with the record label D-Nation Entertainment and released her first extended play, “Spring,” which marked her career resurgence.

 

 

46. Jeong In-seong (KNK)

 

 

Jeong In-seong is a South Korean singer and member of the K-pop group KNK. He was born on July 1, 1994, in Jeju, South Korea. In-seong was a member of BigHit Entertainment before he became the main vocalist of KNK.

 

With this band, he became known for his powerful vocals and emotional performances. He made his debut with KNK in 2016, under YNB Entertainment. KNK gained popularity for their unique style in the debut single “Knock”.

 

With KNK, he released multiple hit singles, EPs, and albums, including “Awake,” “Gravity, Completed,” “Lonely Night,” etc. In-seong has also participated in various TV shows, including “King of Mask Singer” and “Immortal Songs”.

 

He has gained a large following of fans who admire his talent and charming personality. Jeong In-seong continues to be active in the K-pop industry, releasing new music and performing with KNK.

 

 

47. Solji (EXID)

 

 

Solji is the stage name of the South Korean singer, Heo Sol-ji. She started her career as a member of the vocal duo 2NB in 2010. Later she became a vocal trainer before joining EXID as the leader and main vocalist in 2012.

 

Solji also formed a sub-unit of EXID, called Dasoni, and released multiple singles in 2013. She became more popular after winning the singing competition show “King of Mask Singer” in 2015.

 

Later, she went on to participate in “Duet Song Festival” and other programs with great success While touring with EXID in 2016, she was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. As a result, she put her career on hold, but she continued to participate in recording and radio programs.

 

She also recorded the group’s fourth mini album, Full Moon. She left her agency in 2020 and signed with C-JeS Entertainment to pursue her solo career. She made a comeback in 2022 with her first mini-album “First Letter” and released a single album, “The days we were us,” in November 2022.

 

 

48. Kim Junsu  (Xia)

 

 

Kim Junsu, also known as Xiah Junsu, is a South Korean singer, dancer, and musical actor. He debuted as a member of TVXQ in 2003, where he performed as a vocalist and composer.

 

After quitting TVXQ, he started the band JYJ with his ex-TVXQ members. With JYJ, Junsu released his self-composed solo single “Intoxication” in Japan. In 2010, Xia launched his solo career with his debut Japanese EP Xiah.

 

Xiah Junsu also acted in several Korean dramas, including “Scent of a Woman” and “Dracula.” In 2010, he made his stage actor debut in the South Korean production of the musical Mozart! as Wolfgang.

 

He also starred in several musical productions, including “Elizabeth,” “Death Note,” and “Dorian Gray.” Junsu has won numerous awards for his performances and musical compositions. Despite SM Entertainment’s interference in media coverage and promotional activities, he was able to sell out tickets for his concerts and musicals within minutes.

 

 

49. Kim Hyun-joong (SS501)

 

 

Kim Hyun-joong is a South Korean singer, actor, and songwriter. He debuted as a member of the boy band SS501 in 2005 and gained popularity in South Korea and Japan.

 

In 2008, he starred in the Korean drama Boys Over Flowers, which made him a Hallyu star. He released his solo debut EP, Break Down, in 2011 and signed with Universal Music Japan.

 

His second album, Lucky, debuted at number five on Billboard’s World Chart. Kim went on a tour of Japan and held fan meetings in various Asian countries. Kim Hyun-joong won several awards, including Best Male Artist at the 2011 Mnet Asian Music Awards and Best Asian Artist at the 2012 Asia Song Festival.

 

He also starred in other drama series including Playful Kiss, Inspiring Generation, and Barefooted Friends.

 

 

50. Woohyun (INFINITE)

 

 

Nam Woo-hyun is a South Korean singer and actor who was born in Seoul and attended the Dong-ah Institute of Media and Arts. He auditioned for Woollim Entertainment and debuted as a member of Infinite in 2010.

 

He also dabbled in modelling and participated in a star contest. After performing with Infinite for two years, in 2012, he started his solo career. Nam has also participated in musical theatre and formed a special unit called Toheart with Shinee’s Key.

 

He debuted as a solo artist in 2016 and released his first EP, Write…, and his second EP, Second Write…, in 2018. In 2014, Nam Woo-hyun was offered a role in the KBS drama series Hi! School: Love On. He continued to produce music as a solo artist and also participated in musical theatre. We went for his mandatory military service and returned in 2021 with his fourth EP ‘With.’ He continues to rule the hearts of his fans with his music.