As the genre of K-pop becomes more global, being an idol is not limited only to Koreans, but other nationalities such as Japanese, Australians, etc., could also debut as Hallyu stars. Among them, which is the most favorite of Koreans?
Earlier, an internet user sparked a discussion among K-netizens and K-pop fans after releasing the TOP 3 rankings of the most popular foreign female idols in South Korea.
Here are the three foreign K-pop stars selected by K-netizens:
1. TWICE Sana
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Debuting in 2015 as a member of the girl group TWICE, Sana who came from Japan immediately captured the hearts of Koreans with her iconic line, "Shy, shy, shy" in their hit track, " Cheer Up."
She also stole K-pop fans' hearts with her cute visuals resembling a Shiba Inu dog. Can we even forget her legendary, "Cheese Kimbap" aegyo?
Since then, Sana's continuous rise in Korea became unstoppable and even after about 8 years had passed, she was still in love with her current more mature aura.
- "Even my uncle knows her as 'shy, shy, shy."
- "As expected, I thought of Sana first (after reading the title)."
- "I agree with Sana."
2. LE SSERAFIM Kazuha
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When LE SSERAFIM debuted in 2022, Kim Chaewon and Sakura who were former IZ*ONE members made the group drew a lot of interest from K-pop fans.
However, Kazuha truly stole the spotlight when she was introduced during their press debut showcase and impressed with her visuals. The Japanese member went viral among South Koreans for her uncanny resemblance with Bae Suzy and Kim Go Eun.
At the time, she was lauded for her natural, pure and elegant beauty, immediately earning the "First Love" modifier.
- "Kazuha really seemed to be liked by Koreans."
- "Kazuha is even popular among non-K-pop fans."
- "Kazuha is my favorite."
3. NewJeans Hanni
Last but not least, the third non-Korean idol selected by K-netizens is NewJeans Hanni, an Australian-Vietnamese star. She's of Vietnamese descent, but she was born and raised in Australia, making her an Australian.
When she debuted in 2022, Hanni attracted attention for her pear-like aura and beauty that reminded people of former f(x) & late Sulli. She was loved for her gummy smile and pretty eye smile, truly a "happy pill" and "ray of sunshine" for K-pop fans.
Aside from her visuals, Hanni also made Koreans fall in love with her even more for her heavenly vocals and incredible dance skills.
- "Wow, these are all my favorite members. It's amazing."
- "NewJeans Hanni is my favorite."
- "My princess, Pham Hanni."
READ MORE: NewJeans Hanni Sparks Appreciation Thread: 'She's a whole package'
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Written by Eunice Dawson.
