From PBB to Top 10: Ryan Bang honored by Korean government for boosting global image
- Ryan Bang ranked 9th in the 2025 Korea National Image Survey, tying with Blackpink’s Lisa and political leader Lee Jae-myung
- The survey by Korea’s Culture Ministry recognizes figures who have significantly improved the country's global reputation and favorability
- Ryan expressed deep gratitude to his Filipino supporters during "It’s Showtime," stating his success is a shared victory with the Philippines
- For over 10 years, Ryan has served as a bridge between the two nations, frequently hosting major diplomatic and cultural exchange events
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In a historic recognition of cultural diplomacy, Korean entertainer and "It’s Showtime" host Ryan has been named among the top public figures who positively influence South Korea’s global image.
Source: Instagram
The 2025 Korea National Image Survey, released by South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on January 20, 2026, placed Bang at the number nine spot, side-by-side with global icons like BTS and Blackpink.
The survey, which gathered data from approximately 13,000 respondents across 26 countries in October 2025, highlights individuals who have served as "soft power" ambassadors for Korea.
Ryan secured 1.9% of the total responses, tying for the ninth position with notable figures such as political leader Lee Jae-myung and Blackpink's Lisa.
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During the January 21 broadcast of "It’s Showtime," an emotional Ryan took a moment to address the "Madlang People," attributing his success to the Filipino fans who have embraced him since his debut on Pinoy Big Brother in 2010.
"Siyempre sa mga host, Meme Vice (Ganda), pinapayagan niyo ako kapag may event sa Korean embassy, maraming-maraming salamat. Dahil sa inyo po 'yon maraming salamat," Ryan remarked.
"I want to thank the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism for appreciating my work here in the Philippines," the actor and host added.
Ryan also extended his gratitude to the Korean Embassy in the Philippines and Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa.
For over a decade, Ryan has been a staple host for major diplomatic events, including Korean National Day celebrations in Manila.
He noted that these opportunities allowed him to act as a cultural bridge, fostering deeper ties between his home country and his adopted home.
The 2025 survey results saw BTS maintaining the top spot with 7.9%, followed by football star Son Heung-min and the group Blackpink.
Ryan’s inclusion is particularly significant as it underscores the impact of "localized" celebrity influence—where a Korean national finds massive success in a foreign market, thereby elevating Korea's image through cross-cultural integration.
Starting his career as a teenager in the Philippines, Ryan has evolved from a reality show contestant into a respected host and entrepreneur.
His colleagues, including Vice Ganda, were also thanked for their flexibility, allowing him to fulfill his duties as an informal cultural ambassador whenever the Korean government called for his service.
Born Bang Hyun-sung, Ryan Bang is a prominent South Korean personality who redefined local stardom as the "Korean with a Pinoy Heart." After his 2010 breakthrough as runner-up on Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Clash, he became a beloved mainstay on It’s Showtime. Beyond hosting, he is a successful entrepreneur and actor, starring in hits like Beauty and the Bestie.
During the turn of the year festivities and to ring in 2026, Ryan Bang journeyed back to his native South Korea for a heartfelt holiday reunion with both of his parents. The celebration featured a special stay at the premium Seoul condominium that the TV host purchased for his mother in November 2025 as a tribute to her years of hard work. This gathering was a poignant milestone for the star, whose family had been physically and financially separated for over twenty years due to past economic hardships. Viewers of It’s Showtime have expressed deep admiration for Ryan’s dedication, praising him for using his success in the Philippines to restore his family’s comfort and unity.
Previously, Ryan drew public attention while assisting at a Siesta horchata pop-up booth during the "Hola, Escolta!" street festival in Manila. Despite ongoing personal rumors, the Korean star actively promoted the event by sharing footage of himself working behind the counter at the brand's station. Anxiety among followers grew after eagle-eyed fans noticed Paola Huyong had scrubbed engagement photos from her profile and ceased following Ryan on social media. As of late January 2026, both Ryan and Paola have maintained a strict silence, leaving the actual status of their relationship a subject of heavy speculation.
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