Boy Group Outranking Big 4 Idols Just A Month After Debut Makes Headlines — Already Dubbed “Rookie Of The Year”

Each month, the Korea Corporate Reputation Research Institute releases the brand ranking list of idol groups, singers, actors, and other popular figures.

A brand ranking is based on how much the subject is discussed online and how much the subject is worth in terms of advertisement. As one can imagine, a high brand ranking can help a group earn sought-after ambassadorships, which in turn can increase their popularity further.

Idol Groups’ brand ranking often starts low when they first debut, especially if they are under a smaller, non-BIG 4 company. However, a newly debuted boy group have challenged this directly with their brand ranking!

Boy group AHOF was formed through the survival show Universe League, which aired in late 2024. The show gained attention for its unique premise, featuring a sports-like trading system that the trainees participated in.

The final lineup, consisting of former LUMINOUS‘s Steven, Jeongwoo, Shuaibo, PLUUS‘s JL, Juwon, Chihen, Daisuke, former TO1‘s Cha Woongki, and Han, officially debuted on July 1 with “Rendezvous.” The group already earned their first music show win, showing the power of their fandom’s support.

For the brand reputation ranking published on August 5 that featured rookie groups, AHOF ranked first, beating out groups from HYBE, YG Entertainment, and SM Entertainment.

This accolade just a month after their debut was noted by Korean media and made headlines. Many referred to the group as a strong runner for “Rookie Of The Year” awards.

• AHOF Tops Rookie Brand Rankings — Proves They’re This Year’s Rookie of the Year (EDaily)
• AHOF Claims #1 in Brand Reputation — Rookie of the Year Status Confirmed (JTBC News)
• AHOF Ranks First in Brand Reputation — Undeniably This Year’s Rookie of the Year (NewsInside)

With the group’s popularity continuing to rise, it appears the sky is the limit for them!