Ryan Bang joins BTS, Blackpink as personalities 'positively influencing' South Korea's global image

Korean by blood, Filipino at heart!

Ryan Bang is feeling grateful after being named one of the Top 10 personalities and groups positively influencing South Korea’s global image. He placed 9th, just above Lisa, in the list topped by global superstars BTS.

On X Tuesday, Ryan shared the news and said, “Thank you,” followed by a Philippine flag and red heart emoji, and on Wednesday's episode of “It’s Showtime,” Ryan thanked his home country for the recognition.

“Gusto ko magpasalamat s’yempre sa inyong lahat at sa Republic of Korea and the Ministry of Sports, Culture, and Tourism na na-appreciate ‘yung mga efforts na ginagawa ko dito sa Pilipinas,” he said.

"It's Showtime!" host Vice Ganda also shared the list on social media and expressed her pride for Ryan.

“Number 9 is my son!” she wrote, to which Ryan replied, “It’s all because of you, mommy ko. Love you so much.”

It’s all because of you mommy ko ???????????????? I love you so much ???????????? https://t.co/YAKP7G36Kg

— ryan bang (@ryanbang) January 21, 2026

According to The Straits Times, the survey was conducted in October 2025 among 13,000 people across 26 countries.

Here is the full list of personalities helping portray South Korea in a positive light:

1. BTS
2. Son Heung-min
3. Blackpink
4. Lee Min Ho
5. Idol girl and boy group singers
6. Jungkook
7. Lee Jae Myung
8. Presidents/leaders
9. Ryan Bang
10. Lisa

Thank you ????????♥? https://t.co/0KUGWWWOl1

— ryan bang (@ryanbang) January 20, 2026

Congratulations Ryan! — Hermes Joy Tunac/LA, GMA Integrated News