In the latest Kookbang Ilbo poll—South Korea’s go-to military newspaper—groups like aespa, BTS, and solo icon IU led the charge. In a survey asking soldiers which idols they want to see on a military concert tour, they were some of the hottest names.
Held between April 4 and April 17 via The Camp app, the April edition of the Military Barracks Chart had 309 active-duty soldiers cast their votes. While girl groups clearly reign supreme in the barracks, BTS stood tall as the only boy group in the Top 10—despite being on military hiatus.
Let’s break down the top 10 along with their results
#10. BTS (1.9%)
The only male act on the list, BTS proved their influence is untouchable—even while serving. With 1.9% of the vote, they’re the boys for the boys.
#09. LE SSERAFIM (2.3%)
With their bold concepts and confident vibes, LE SSERAFIM earned solid love from soldiers who appreciate bangers like “CRAZY.”
#08. BabyMonster (2.9%)
YG’s rookie monster group is already making waves. Soldiers are watching this new-gen girl group rise.
#07, QWER (3.2%)
The band format is back, and QWER’s unique style is catching military eyes. Live instruments and pop-rock? Yes, please.
#06. NewJeans (3.6%)
Even with legal drama swirling, NewJeans still charmed their way into soldiers’ playlists with their Y2K flair and viral hits.
#05. NMIXX (4.9%)
Quirky, experimental, and energetic—NMIXX’s sound might be complex, but the military’s loving every beat.
#04. IVE (6.1%)
IVE’s catchy tracks and glamorous aura earned them a comfy fourth spot. Soldiers clearly love a good dose of elegance.
#03. IU (6.5%)
The nation’s sweetheart. IU’s emotional vocals and timeless appeal struck a chord, reminding everyone she’s always a South Korean star.
#02. fromis_9 (16.2%)
Bubbly beats and good vibes helped fromis_9 score big. Soldiers praised the girls for lifting their spirits during tough days. Not to mention, the girl group stuck together even after changing labels.
#01. aespa (18.1%)
The queens of the poll! aespa’s futuristic sound and stage charisma stole the show. One soldier even said Karina helped him push through rough patches. That’s idol therapy.
Top 10 favorite K-Pop groups chosen by South Korean soldiers, according to Defence Media Agency
#1 aespa
#2 fromis_9
#3 IU
#4 IVE
#5 NMIXX
#6 NewJeans
#7 QWER
#8 #BABYMONSTER
#9 LE SSERAFIM
#10 BTS pic.twitter.com/ZHmkoG5J5X— BABYMONSTER BASE (@bmonpopbase) April 30, 2025
