LE SSERAFIM was named the most influential K-pop artist in Japan in 2024, and it has surprised many.

On June 9, 2024, Billboard released the "Top K-pop Acts of 2024" list, and the announcement sparked massive debate. As Japan is the second-largest music market globally, recognition in this market is highly coveted. Over three decades, the Korean pop industry has grown substantially in Japan, with many agencies prioritizing their artists' Japanese debut as a strategic move.

Billboard Japan's ranking named LE SSERAFIM as the top K-pop artist in Japan for 2024, followed by the million-selling male group SEVENTEEN, positioning them as the top female and male K-pop acts, respectively.

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In third place was NewJeans, with Jungkook of BTS being the only solo artist to make the top five. Remarkably, ILLIT, despite debuting in March 2024, ranked fifth, surpassing established groups like TWICE and BTS, who came in sixth and ninth, respectively.

This ranking became controversial among Korean netizens and K-pop fans following LE SSERAFIM's performance at Coachella 2024. Their performances drew significant criticism and led to the group being labeled a "national shame" in South Korea due to their unstable vocals and overall lackluster performance.

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Despite the backlash they received and their ruined reputation in South Korea, LE SSERAFIM still secured the top spot as the most influential group in Japan, sparking confusion and mixed reactions among fans and netizens.

Billboard Japan's Top K-Pop Acts of 2024:

1. LE SSERAFIM
2.  SEVENTEEN
3.  NewJeans
4.  Jung Kook
5.  ILLIT
6.  TWICE
7.  Stray Kids
8.  IVE
9.  BTS
10.  TREASURE

This list contains K-pop acts with large fanbases and successful careers in Japan. However, LE SSERAFIM's ranking at the top spot has sparked controversy, especially considering their recent performance issues.

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Despite the success of SEVENTEEN, who recently drew nearly 150,000 attendees to their "Follow Again" concert at Nissan Stadium, they ranked second, which surprised many fans. LE SSERAFIM not only ranked higher than SEVENTEEN but also surpassed TWICE and BTS, with the latter ranking surprisingly low at ninth.

Additionally, the absence of BLACKPINK from the list despite their global impact and historic performances at the Tokyo Dome during the "Born Pink World Tour" has raised eyebrows. Their exclusive has led to speculation and disappointment among fans, showcasing the unpredictable nature of popularity and recognition in the Japanese music market.

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What do you think of the situation? Tell us in the comments below!

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Written by Alexa Lopez