BTS Claims November 2025 Brand Reputation Crown Amid Reunion Buzz
BTS secured first place in South Korea's November 2025 Star Brand Reputation Rankings with an index of 9,911,692, extending their streak as anticipation builds for the group's full comeback following their June military reunion.
The Korea Corporate Reputation Research Institute analyzed data from October 29 to November 29, examining media coverage, consumer participation, interaction, and community awareness across the entertainment industry. BTS's commanding lead reflects sustained global interest despite months without group activities.
Trot singer Lim Young Woong maintained second place with 7,216,605 points, while BLACKPINK climbed to third with 5,807,163. The top five rounded out with national MC Yoo Jae Suk at 5,023,309 and girl group IVE at 4,900,139.
The November top 30 showcased South Korea's diverse entertainment landscape. TWICE, volleyball icon Kim Yeon Koung, footballer Son Heung Min, broadcaster Jun Hyun Moo, SEVENTEEN, and esports star Faker represented different sectors. Actors Lee Byung Hun, Lee Jung Jae, Jun Ji Hyun, Kim Woo Bin, and Choi Woo Shik demonstrated film industry strength. K-pop groups including ILLIT, LE SSERAFIM, and EXO joined veterans like Girls' Generation's Taeyeon.
"BTS brand recorded first place," director Koo Chang-hwan explained. "Interest from global ARMY is increasing due to anticipation for the full group." He noted that while Lim Young Woong's record-breaking national tour drove his second-place finish, BLACKPINK's rise came from members' active social media presence. Yoo Jae Suk's fourth-place ranking reflected his position as a model of self-discipline, while IVE's fifth-place spot highlighted their strengthening global presence.
All seven BTS members reunited in June 2025 after completing mandatory military service. Jin and J-Hope returned in 2024, followed by RM and V on June 10, Jimin and Jungkook on June 11, and Suga on June 21. The group celebrated their 12th anniversary with BTS Festa 2025 at KINTEX in Goyang, featuring over 20 interactive booths and drawing massive fan participation.
BTS member Jimin extended his individual dominance by topping the November boy group member rankings with 4,389,785 points. The result marked his 35th consecutive month at number one-an unprecedented achievement in K-pop history. Jungkook placed second with 3,547,123 points, while BIGBANG's G-Dragon took third with 3,444,575.
In the idol group category rankings released earlier in November, BTS led with 9,083,018 points, up 17% from October. BLACKPINK surged 71% to reach 6.8 million points for second place. Keyword analysis linked BTS to terms like "digital song," "ARMY," and "Billboard," while association analysis highlighted "record," "speech," and "advertisement." The group achieved a 93.50% positive sentiment rating.
Industry sources expect BTS to release a new album in late 2025, with a world tour likely launching in 2026. HYBE CEO Lee Jae-sang confirmed discussions with top producers during a March shareholders' meeting, noting members need adequate preparation time given their global status. Financial analysts project HYBE's operating profit could increase 54% to approximately 500 billion won following the full group's return.
The ranking demonstrates BTS's enduring cultural influence. Even months after their reunion, before releasing new group material, they dominate brand metrics through solo activities, past catalog performance, and sustained fan engagement. Their position as what Korean media terms "military-completed idols" potentially enhances domestic credibility while preserving their international standing.
With members having developed artistically during their solo projects, the upcoming comeback promises evolution rather than simple continuation. As 2025 ends, BTS proves their brand transcends active promotion cycles-a testament to the foundation they built over 12 years.
