Since the formation of K-pop to the present day, YouTube has been recognized as playing a core role in the industry’s ecosystem, especially within its strategic vision of global expansion. As the world’s most popular video-based entertainment platform, YouTube allows K-pop to reach international au∂ιєnces instantly, regardless of language barriers, geographic borders, or traditional distribution systems.

Moreover, compared to other music genres, a K-pop song is a synthesis of multiple elements—choreography, visuals, concepts, and storytelling, in addition to the music itself. YouTube is the most optimal platform to showcase all of these components in full, which is why K-pop idols and their management companies place strong emphasis on investing in and releasing title-track music videos on this platform.

Beyond music videos, K-pop idols also utilize YouTube to upload fancams, dance practices, behind-the-scenes footage, vlogs, reality series, personal content, and promotional materials, taking advantage of YouTube’s mαѕѕive global entertainment au∂ιєnce. These forms of content help boost interaction and emotional connection between idols and the public. In many cases, idols have even risen to overnight fame thanks to a single viral moment on YouTube.

Conversely, search trends and au∂ιєnce behavior on YouTube serve as one of the most accurate indicators of a K-pop idol’s influence. Simply by examining keyword search volume or the telling numbers behind views and comments, one can quickly gauge a name’s current level of popularity. As 2025 comes to a close, one question naturally arises: Which male idols are dominating search trends on this global platform?

On the 28th of this month, a compiled dataset of the most-searched male K-pop idols on YouTube in the United States for 2025 has been released, reflecting the latest public interest trends. Surprisingly, the top 10 is dominated by members of two leading K-pop groups—BTS and Stray Kids—along with one legendary figure, BIGBANG’s G-Dragon.

Accordingly, G-Dragon secured the 7th position, while Stray Kids members Lee Know ranked 10th, Bang Chan took 8th place, and Felix and Hyunjin landed at 4th and 5th respectively. This means the remaining spots—particularly the top three positions—belong entirely to BTS members, specifically:

Jin claimed 9th place following an exceptionally active year after his military discharge. From launching Run Jin—a continuation of the nearly 200-episode Run BTS series that began at the group’s debut—to releasing music videos and related promotional content, Jin won over global fans with his humor, positive energy, creativity, and distinctive musical color.

At 6th place, Jimin was a surprising inclusion despite having released no music or entertainment content on YouTube. This is understandable, as he was only discharged from the military in June and has yet to resume full activities. Nevertheless, he remained one of the most searched and beloved names globally throughout the year—clear proof of BTS’s superstar power that remains unwavering.

Following Jin and Jimin, j-hope made a strong impression at 3rd place, reflecting a highly successful year of solo activities. Global fans searched extensively for BTS’s rapper in relation to music content, including songs, collaborations, concerts, and impactful overseas performances. It is no exaggeration to say that 2025 was a year in which fans constantly danced along to j-hope’s vibrant music.

Most surprising of all, however, are the top two positions, occupied once again by familiar names who have consistently ranked high in previous years—V at No. 2 and Jungkook at No. 1. Similar to Jimin, both V and Jungkook had limited musical activities in 2025 due to their recent discharge from military service. Yet their names were never forgotten nor overshadowed in the global public eye. Their keyword searches remained high and diverse, spanning live broadcasts, fancams, humorous moments, song covers, and more—underscoring the duo’s formidable influence as BTS’s youngest members.

Importantly, this is not the first year V and Jungkook have topped this ranking. For at least the past six years, both have consistently appeared in the top five, often alternating between first and second place. Beyond YouTube, V continues to dominate Instagram, while Jungkook has remained the most-searched idol on Google for multiple years and one of the most popular stars on Tumblr and Pinterest.

Ultimately, the fact that BTS members occupy half of the ranking and dominate the top positions stands as powerful evidence of the group’s “unstoppable” reputation—even after a three-year hiatus from group activities. Today, BTS’s influence extends far beyond their group brand, fueled by the explosive individual power of each member. This remarkable synergy serves as the perfect foundation, promising a comeback that is set to shake the global music landscape in 2026.