Hey everyone! Ever wondered why you see certain faces on every billboard, coffee mix, and bank ad in South Korea? It all comes down to the “CF power.” On May 24, 2026, the Korea Corporate Reputation Research Institute released the May 2026 Advertisement Model Brand Reputation Rankings.
This month is particularly exciting because the “Sun-jae Syndrome” has officially collided with the “Hero” power of trot legends and global sports icons. Let’s dive into who captured the hearts (and wallets) of consumers this month!
May 2026 Ad Model Rankings: The Top 5
The rankings are determined by analyzing big data, focusing on consumer participation, media coverage, communication, and community awareness. Here is the quick breakdown of the top performers:
| Rank | Model Name | Key Influence | Total Brand Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lim Young Woong | Consistent “Hero” power & Trustworthiness | 2,845,332 |
| 2 | Byeon Woo-seok | Massive Lovely Runner syndrome & Visuals | 2,710,211 |
| 3 | Son Heung-min | Global sports icon & Healthy image | 2,122,908 |
| 4 | Kim Soo-hyun | Queen of Tears longevity | 1,890,122 |
| 5 | IVE | High-fashion & Gen Z appeal | 1,544,300 |
The Battle for the Top Spot
Lim Young Woong continues his incredible streak at #1. His clean, family-friendly image makes him the most sought-after model for everything from water purifiers to banking. However, the biggest story of the month is Byeon Woo-seok. Jumping straight into the #2 spot, his role in the hit drama Lovely Runner has turned him into the “IT Boy” of 2026. Every brand is currently fighting to sign him as their face!
Not far behind is global football legend Son Heung-min, who remains a staple in the industry due to his unparalleled international reputation. Meanwhile, groups like IVE and actors like Kim Soo-hyun show that staying power is all about consistent visibility.
Want to keep up with more entertainment buzz? Check out our report on the latest K-drama news and ratings or see which K-pop groups are dominating the charts in 2026.
For a deeper look into the world of marketing and how these ratings impact the industry, visit the official Celebrity branding Wikipedia page.
Whether it’s the heart-fluttering charm of Byeon Woo-seok or the reliable aura of Lim Young Woong, these stars are the definitive faces of Hallyu this summer. Who is your favorite CF model?
FAQs
Who is the #1 advertisement model in Korea for May 2026?
Lim Young Woong secured the top spot this month, maintaining his status as the most trusted and influential model for Korean consumers.
