Who rules the hearts of Korea’s MZ-generation soldiers? The answer has just been revealed—aespa takes the crown as the ultimate “military president,” according to a recent survey by the Korea Defense Daily.
From April 4 to 17, 309 soldiers participated in the “Military Chart” survey via The Camp app, answering the question: Which celebrity would you most like to see at a military performance this spring? The results offer a revealing glimpse into the pop culture icons offering strength, healing, and motivation to today’s service members.
1st Place: aespa (18.1%)
Topping the chart with 18.1% of the vote, aespa comprised of Karina, Winter, Ningning, and Giselle—earned praise for their empowering performances and striking visuals. One army corporal shared, “I thought of Karina when I was struggling. It made me want to protect this country even more.” Another added, “Just thinking about aespa motivates me to do my best.” Their high-energy stage presence and futuristic appeal clearly resonate with young soldiers.
2nd Place: fromis_9 (16.2%)
Following closely behind, fromis_9 captivated service members with their bright, approachable image. Many shared how their music helped them push through tough physical training. “I finished a long march thinking of fromis_9,” said one. The group’s consistent interest in military cultural events and outreach further cements their bond with soldiers.
3rd Place: IU (6.5%)
Long hailed as Korea’s sweetheart, IU continues to maintain her top-tier status among troops. Soldiers cited her music and recent acting projects as sources of comfort. “Her role in the drama When Life Gives You Tangerines helped me through tough days,” one soldier commented. Her emotional depth and relatability make her a timeless favorite.
4th and 5th: IVE (6.1%) and NMIXX (4.9%)
New-gen girl groups IVE and NMIXX are quickly gaining traction among military fans. IVE’s members, especially Jang Wonyoung and Ahn Yujin, were frequently mentioned by name, while NMIXX was praised for their high-energy tracks that “lift spirits effortlessly.” Both groups are emerging as the next wave of military favorites.
What Do Soldiers Want to Hear from Their “Military Presidents”?
Soldiers expressed a desire for encouraging and heartfelt words from their favorite stars. Messages like “Stay strong,” “You’re doing great,” and “Thank you for protecting the country” were the most common. These responses highlight the emotional support K-pop idols provide beyond just entertainment.
