Here are the top ways to measure an artist's popularity - album sales, chart rankings, and especially the number of fans they have. A large fan base signifies strong digital streaming presence, crucial for success in charts and award nominations. It is also a key indicator of long-term success owing to fan loyalty.

Melon, South Korea's leading music streaming platform, recently unveiled rankings for the most popular 4th and 5th gen boy groups based on fan count from January 1 to February 3. The featured groups include TXT, RIIZE, Stray Kids, The Boyz, PLAVE, BOYNEXTDOOR, ZEROBASEONE, ENHYPEN, NCT WISH, X1, and TWS.

Korean netizens had a lot to say:

"X1 is still rocking it?"

"The Boyz - a 4th gen powerhouse?"

"RIIZE is making waves!"

"Spotting the rising stars."

"Realized my fave group is 3rd gen!"

"X1 still holding strong!"

"BOYNEXTDOOR with a huge following!"

"Post-2018 debuts are all about that 4th gen vibe."

In other news, the '2025 Soundberry Theater festival' teased an exciting lineup for its upcoming February Festival!