Choi Ji Woo Is Most Recognizable and Popular Female Hallyu Star in Japan

Nikkei Entertainment magazine carried out a survey on “Hallyu Star Rankings” among 300 women residing in Japan aged 15 to 59, from August to September this year. The magazine is regarded by the Japanese public as one of the most credible news publications.

Results of the survey were revealed in the magazine’s latest October special edition, where Choi Ji Woo proves she is still the most notable female Hallyu star in Japan. Choi Ji Woo topped both the “degree of recognition” and “popularity” categories, beating other contenders like Kim Tae Hee, Lee Young Ae and Yoon Son Ha.

For male Hallyu stars, Bae Yong Joon topped the “degree of recognition” category, followed by Lee Byung Hun and Jang Geun Suk in second and third place respectively. Jang Geun Suk also topped the “popularity” category, followed by Lee Byung Hun and Won Bin.

With regard to Choi Ji Woo topping both categories, her agency said, “As one of the pioneer Hallyu stars, Choi Ji Woo is receiving many presents and support from both local fans as well as overseas fans from many countries such as Japan, Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, the Philippines, Malaysia, USA and Canada.”

Most recognizable Hallyu stars Bae Yong Joon and Choi Ji Woo even appeared in the anime movie “Atashinchi The 3D Movie” (2010)

Most popular male Hallyu star Jang Geun Suk appeared consecutively as the cover model in the 3 major Japanese women’s weekly magazines from May to June this year.