“KINGHYUNG": Netizens buzz as BTS' Taehyung emerges as Google’s #1 K-Pop Idol of the 21st Century

BTS’ Taehyung emerges as Google’s #1 K-Pop Idol of the 21st Century
BTS’ Taehyung emerges as Google’s #1 K-Pop Idol of the 21st Century (Image via Instagram/@thv)

BTS' Taehyung took social media by storm after he topped the list of most popular K-pop idol of the 21st Century. The latest list was unveiled by Google that placed Kim Taehyung on #1, while his bandmate Jungkook on the #2 spot. Both members of the boy band were recently discharged in June 2025. Following their military release, their fans look forward to the idol’s activities.

Fans of the “Winter Ahead” singer were delighted to witness the idol’s most popular status; therefore, they flooded social media with their plaudits for him. To express this, one user on X commented:

“FOR SURE KINGHYUNG”

Fans react as BTS' Taehyung ranks #1 as the most popular K-pop idol

Many other fans gave their mixed reactions to V’s new feat. While many congratulated BTS' Taehyung, others weren’t even surprised by the latest recognition he got. Another fan praised V as the global it boy.

“CONGRATULATIONS TAEHYUNG. WE PURPLE YOU. BORAHAE TAEHYUNG. WE LOVE YOU TAEHYUNG,” commented an admirer.
“Nothing new. Since debut, Tae's been the most popular member, even though he hasn't received the privileged positions he should have, & since 2017, it's been clear that he's the most popular idol even though he's intentionally excluded to highlight the other.,” a fan stated.
“As expected from the global it boy,” commented an admirer.
“He's born to be no #1 Congratulations,” wrote a fan.

Some claimed BTS' Taehyung was born to be number #1, others hailed him as king. Another fan felt that V’s new achievement was a big deal.

“CONGRATULATIONS TAEHYUNG Its no surprise ..U ROCK OUR WORLD KING KIM TAEHYUNG,” stated an admirer.
“This is a big deal! I hope ALL our fanbases celebrate this loudly!! MOST POPULAR K-POP IDOL OF THE 21ST CENTURY,” another fan commented.
“Never been up for debate but certain stans wanna argue with charts and streams like thats the only marker for popularity lmao,” a fan wrote.

Kim Taehyung recently attended the Celine show in Paris

Kim Taehyung made his initial formal public appearance in Paris, a month after returning from the military. The Slow Dancing singer landed in Paris for Fashion Week and attended Celine's Printemps 2026 fashion show. At the event, BTS' Taehyung's exchanges with Anna Wintour, as well as his Celine show style and outfit, went viral on social media.

V was dressed in gray for the event, complete with a custom-made jacket and matching pants. He also added exquisite jewelry pieces to enhance his appearance. Fans also paid close attention to Kim Taehyung's Celine after-party outfit.

In March 2023, Tae was appointed as Celine's global ambassador.

Read more: “JAPAN IS TRULY JINLAND”: Netizens react as BTS' Jin sells out all four shows of “RUNSEOKJIN EP. TOUR" concert in Japan, attracting 130k fans

Edited by Tanisha Aggarwal