The Only K-Pop Idols Outside BTS and BLACKPINK on Most Powerful Celebrities List

BTS tops Forbes Korea’s “Power Celebrities 40 List” for 2026, dominating both group and individual rankings.

Forbes Korea recently released its annual “Power Celebrities 40 List,” ranking South Korea’s top celebrities based on media exposure, social media popularity, appearances, and earnings over the past year.

BTS secured the No. 1 spot as a group. Individually, BTS members also landed high on the list: Jin at 6, V at 7, Jungkook at 8, J-Hope at 10, RM at 11, Jimin at 12, and Suga at 18.

BLACKPINK ranked third overall as a group. Each member earned notable individual rankings: Jennie at 16, Lisa at 20, Rosé at 23, and Jisoo at 24.

Beyond these two global giants, other K-pop idols made the list:

BIGBANG’s G-Dragon

Known as one of K-pop’s most influential figures, G-Dragon ranked second overall.

IU

Despite recent controversies, IU remains highly popular, securing the 19th spot.

ASTRO’s Cha Eunwoo

Cha Eunwoo is recognized for his dual career as an idol and actor, landing at 21.

IVE’s Jang Wonyoung

The youngest idol on the list, Jang Wonyoung ranks 29 thanks to her rising fame and brand deals.

Suzy

Though inactive as an idol, Suzy’s steady acting career earned her the 31st spot.

Girls’ Generation’s YoonA

YoonA continues her success as an idol-actor, appearing in hit dramas like King The Land, ranking 34th.

aespa’s Karina

Karina stands out as an influential idol, placing 37th on the list.

2PM’s Lee Junho

Lee Junho also shines as an idol-actor, appearing alongside YoonA in King The Land, ranking 40th.

Several trot artists made the list as well, including Lim Young Woong (5), Lee Chanwon (27), Park Seojin (30), and Youngtak (39).

BTS and BLACKPINK continue to dominate Korea’s celebrity scene, with other idols and actors making strong showings on Forbes Korea’s 2026 Power Celebrities list.