Introduction

When discussing the popularity of K-pop girl groups, it's often assumed that Blackpink leads the pack. However, are these assumptions fully founded? This article delves into the often-contradictory perceptions and reveals the true measures of IZ*One's and Blackpink's popularity in South Korea and globally. From album sales to social media presence, we will explore the data to find the truth behind the hype.

The Myths vs. Reality

Popular belief holds that Blackpink is the top group in South Korea. But is this truly accurate? Let's break down the factors that determine a group's popularity.

Album Sales and Official Data

Album sales and commercial performance often serve as more accurate indicators of a group's popularity compared to their online presence on platforms like YouTube and Instagram. According to the YouTube channel “Data Throne,” Iz*One consistently outperforms Blackpink in terms of album sales. In a video titled “K-Pop ‘GAON CHART’ Most Selling Album in insert year So Far!,” Iz*One is positioned in the top three positions, while Blackpink struggles to compete with these figures. This data suggests that Iz*One has a stronger commercial pull in South Korea.

Social Media vs. Billboard

When it comes to social media presence, Blackpink clearly dominates. They were the first K-pop girl group to attend Coachella, set records on YouTube with every comeback, and boast an enormous number of Instagram followers. Their global appeal and influence on social media are undeniable. However, this metric does not necessarily correlate with album sales or physical chart performance, which are better indicators of a group's popularity in South Korea.

Regional Popularity and Geographic Influence

The popularity of these groups is not uniform across different regions. While Blackpink enjoys significant popularity in Europe and America, Iz*One is extremely popular in Japan. This reflects the diverse cultural tastes and preferences of different markets. Iz*One's strong presence in Japan, where they also rank higher in album sales, compared to Blackpink, signifies their higher commercial success in South Korea.

Conclusion

Popularity in the K-pop industry is multifaceted and cannot be measured solely by social media metrics. Iz*One and Blackpink each have their unique strengths and regional success stories. For South Korea, Iz*One's sales and commercial impact place them at a higher standing, while Blackpink's global renown and social media presence outweigh these metrics internationally.

Therefore, while Blackpink's popularity is indisputable globally, Iz*One demonstrates a strong presence in South Korean markets, making them a formidable contender in the retail and commercial charts.