In the ever-shifting world of Hallyu, one name remains constant at the summit: Kim Soo-hyun. According to the latest results from the 158th Star Ranking poll (for the male actor category), Kim Soo-hyun has once again proven his unmatched global influence. During the voting period held from March 26 to April 2, 2026, the actor secured a staggering 44,315 votes, comfortably landing him in the No. 1 spot.
This isn’t just a win; it’s a dynasty. With this latest result, Kim Soo-hyun has officially held the throne for 47 consecutive weeks, a feat that highlights the incredible longevity of his “Queen of Tears” momentum and the unwavering loyalty of his global fandom.
2026 Star Ranking: The Top 5 Powerhouses
While Kim Soo-hyun leads the pack, the competition for the top spots remains fierce among Korea’s elite leading men. The 158th Star Ranking results for male actors are as follows:
| Rank | Actor | Total Votes |
| 1 | Kim Soo-hyun | 44,315 |
| 2 | Lee Junho | 33,414 |
| 3 | Byeon Woo-seok | 17,989 |
| 4 | Kim Nam-gil | 10,213 |
| 5 | Lee Joon-gi | 1,920 |
The second and third spots, held by Lee Junho and Byeon Woo-seok, reflect the massive active engagement of their respective fanbases, showcasing a healthy and vibrant competitive landscape in the K-drama industry.
The Power of the Fan Vote
What makes the Star Ranking significant is its transparency and direct fan involvement. Unlike traditional critics’ awards, this is a “fandom-driven” ecosystem where supporters determine the hierarchy through active daily participation.
Perks for the Winners:
The stakes go beyond pride. Stars who maintain the No. 1 position for four consecutive weeks are granted high-profile rewards, including:
- Outdoor Electronic Billboard Ads: High-traffic digital displays across major districts in Seoul.
- Fan Support Videos: Fandoms can submit personalized video tributes to be aired on large-scale billboards to celebrate their star’s achievement.
What’s Next for him?
As Kim Soo-hyun approaches his one-year anniversary at the top of the charts (week 52), all eyes are on his upcoming 2026 projects. With his “Triple Crown” of acting, brand power, and fandom loyalty fully intact, the industry expects his “Golden Era” to continue well into the second half of the year.
Editor’s Insight: The “Kim Soo-hyun Standard”
What we are witnessing is the “Kim Soo-hyun Standard.” Almost a year after the massive global success of his recent projects, his popularity hasn’t plateaued it has solidified.
In an era where “viral stars” often fade after a season, Kim Soo-hyun’s 47-week streak suggests that he has successfully transitioned from a trending actor to a cultural institution. For fans, voting isn’t just a task; it’s a weekly tribute to an artist who consistently delivers “best-in-class” performances.