Top 10 Most Influential People in Korean Entertainment Industry, as Voted by Professionals

Korean entertainment industry professionals have chosen the top ten most influential people in the industry.

News outlet Hankook Ilbo took a survey among 101 professionals associated with the entertainment industry for a list of the most influential individuals in the field.

Lee Soo Man, founder and producer of SM Entertainment, was voted as the most influential person in the industry, with a total of 678 points. YG Entertainment‘s Yang Hyun Suk came runner-up, with 672 points. Producer Na Young Suk, known for his recent variety hits like “Three Meals a Day” and “Gramps Over Flowers,” placed third on the list, with 571 points.

Actor Kim Soo Hyun was the only actor to make the top ten, placing fourth with 286 points, as industry insiders acknowledged his smashing success in China.

In fifth place was long-running variety program “Infinity Challenge” producer Kim Tae Ho. In sixth place was Vice President Lee Mi Kyung of conglomerate CJ Group. Kim Woo Taek, president of film production company NEW (“Miracle in Cell No.7,” “The Attorney”) placed seventh. President Kim Sung Soo of CJ E&M, CJ Group’s entertainment sector, ranked at eighth place.

Yoo Jae Suk was the highest-ranking comedian/TV personality as he placed ninth with 173 points. Screenwriter Park Ji Eun, responsible for dramas like “My Love from the Stars” and the latest “Producer” came in at tenth.

The pool of 101 industry insiders consulted included producers, entertainment/production company VP’s, music/film critics, and composers, among others.

Source: (1)