URGENT UPDATE: The 2025 SBS Gayo Daejeon, held on December 25, has faced a major setback, recording a disappointing overall viewership rating of just 1.9%, according to Nielsen Korea. This star-studded event featured an impressive lineup of 36 performing teams, including K-pop giants like TVXQ’s Yunho, NCT’s Taeyong, Stray Kids, and ITZY.
Despite the high expectations surrounding the performance roster, the ratings have left fans and industry insiders stunned. The first part of the show plummeted to a dismal 1.2%, while the second part matched last year’s initial rating of 1.9%. However, last year’s third part soared to 3.1%, illustrating a stark contrast as this year’s segments both concluded at the same rating of 1.9%.
This year’s lackluster performance raises questions about viewer engagement, especially in a competitive landscape filled with similar year-end shows. The 36 groups included not only established names but also rising stars like ENHYPEN, IVE, and LE SSERAFIM, making the outcome all the more surprising.
The entertainment industry is buzzing with reactions as fans express their disappointment across social media platforms. Many are questioning whether the oversaturation of K-pop events is diluting the excitement surrounding such prestigious shows.
As the industry reflects on these ratings, the SBS Gayo Daejeon will need to reassess its strategy moving forward to recapture the attention of viewers. The immediate impact of these ratings could influence how future events are structured, potentially shifting the focus to more innovative formats or exclusive performances.
What happens next? Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how the SBS network responds to this decline. With discussions about the future of K-pop events heating up, industry stakeholders are expected to announce changes that could redefine the landscape of year-end shows.
Stay tuned as we continue to monitor this developing story and its implications for the K-pop community.
