◇ 1st Place = Stray Kids
Stray Kids has clinched the top spot in the [Star 1 Pick] K-pop Idol category this week. Member Han turned heads on August 12, flaunting his dapper charm in ivory attire at a brand pop-up store in Seoul’s Shinsegae Department Store, Gangnam. I.N followed suit on August 13, stealing the spotlight at a brand pop-up in Seongdong-gu with his striking gray suit and bleached hair. The group dropped their latest track “This and That” on the 7th and kicked off their world tour Run It. Stray Kids flexed their musical muscle by scoring their ninth consecutive No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart with their new release.
◇ 2nd Place = RESCENE
Rising girl group RESCENE has snagged the second spot in the [Star 1 Pick] K-pop Idol rankings. They’ve been making waves since early this year with their original content, notably popularizing the “Geoje Yahoo” meme. Their previous tracks have surged back up the charts, marking a golden era for the group. Recently, they’ve been wowing audiences with their lovely charm and high-energy sporty looks on various stages. In a show of social responsibility, RESCENE donated 50 million KRW (about 36,100 USD) to aid the Geoje area, which has been grappling with heavy rainfall damage.
◇ 3rd Place = BTS
◇ 4th Place = ATEEZ
ATEEZ has ridden the wave of their viral “Bad” challenge to fourth place in the [Star 1 Pick] K-pop Idol rankings. The group is gaining traction with their Grand Duke of the North concept, exuding a cool and intense vibe, particularly when suited up in chic ensembles. Their title track “Bad” from the recent album Golden Hour: Part 5 features a catchy chest-popping dance move that’s become a trending challenge, propelling the song to commercial success. ATEEZ continues to dominate various festival stages with their electrifying performances.
◇ 5th Place = ILLIT
ILLIT rounds out the top five in the K-pop Idol category this week. Members Yoona, Wonhee, Iroha, and Minju caught eyes as they jetted off to KCON in Los Angeles on August 14. Each member showcased their unique style: Minju and Iroha opted for dresses exuding innocence, Wonhee went casual-cool in a tee and jeans, while Yoona turned heads with a daring crop top. Last month, ILLIT dropped their Japanese single “I Got Your Back,” further expanding their international presence.