“Came and gagged the industry”— Fans react as BTS’ Jin ranks #1 Best Male K-pop Idol of 2024's 2nd half at Forbes Korea Awards

Forbes Korea ranked BTS's Jin as the Best Male K-pop Idol of the second half of 2024. The 7th Forbes Korea K-pop Awards winners were revealed on January 3, 2025, through Forbes Korea’s official website. The BTS member emerged as the winner, securing around 44.52% of the total votes.

Having been discharged from the military in June 2024, the idol made a comeback with his projects during the latter half of the year. His influence and contributions to the industry were recognized and celebrated by fans.

Fans and critics alike praised the BTS member for his latest achievements.

"He came and gagged the industry the king he is ! CONGRATULATIONS SEOKJIN"

More fans congratulated the idol.

“Only 6 months he did a lot!! How he is amazing & powerful!!” A fan said.

“He definitely earned this,” a fan claimed.

“This is amazing! I’m so glad they recognized his hard work and efforts.” A fan wrote.

Another set of fans commented,

“With only 6 months, Seokjin has managed to successfully complete so many projects it’s truly amazing!” A fan stated.

“So Proud of youuu!!” A fan exclaimed.

“The moment he got out he has worked so hard!” A fan affirmed.

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Jin gets selected by Forbes Korea for his impact over the second half of 2024

Forbes Korea, in collaboration with Idol Champ, hosted the 7th Forbes Korea K-pop Awards (FKA) to determine "The Best Star (K-pop Idol) Who Heated Up the Second Half of 2024." BTS' Jin claimed the top spot among male idols, receiving 144,678 votes, which accounted for 44.52% of the total. The voting period spanned from November 18 to December 11, 2024.

Trailing him in the rankings were XODIAC, Baekhyun, Stray Kids, and ATEEZ, securing their positions as other male idols of the period.

Since his military discharge in June 2024, he has made a return to his career. He actively reconnected with fans through fan meetings and released his first solo album, Happy, on November 15, 2024. The album features six tracks, including the title song, Running Wild, and conveys his message about finding happiness together.

The album's popularity extended beyond South Korea to global markets, including Japan and the United States.

In Japan, the BTS hyung's album Happy surpassed 250,000 cumulative sales by November, earning a Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ). Additionally, the idol has been entertaining fans through his solo variety show, Run Jin.

Hence, Forbes Korea's recognition highlights the idol's achievements and activities in 2024, marking his return to K-pop.