IRENE Tops K-POPIT Global Chart As Individual Popularity Shines Through China Activities

Red Velvet's Irene has climbed to the top of the K-POPIT Board, drawing attention to her continued individual popularity amid her recent activities in China.

According to K-POP data analysis index K-POPIT Board, Irene ranked No. 1 on the Global Rising Chart on Sept. 1 with a Power Index (PWR_GL) of 72. The Power Index measures an artist's overall momentum by combining factors including music chart performance, social media activity and media coverage.

Irene's rise on the board comes as attention surrounding her activities in China has continued to grow. On Aug. 31, Red Velvet's official YouTube channel uploaded "IRENE Vlog in CHINA," a nearly 20-minute video documenting the singer's recent activities in the country.

Rather than capturing a single trip, the vlog follows Irene across a series of fan-facing schedules held in China between April and July. She visited Shenzhen on April 19 for an offline fansign and photo event before heading to Shanghai and Beijing for additional signing events on May 30 and 31. Irene later returned to Shanghai in July, holding another offline fansign through KMS on July 11 before participating in a special "one-day store manager" event the following day.

The vlog follows Irene through both these official schedules and the quieter moments in between, when she is able to relax and explore. She is seen preparing backstage ahead of promotional events, appearing in front of local fans and interacting with them during her schedules. Cameras also follow her during meals, shopping and other moments of downtime.

The repeated visits have allowed Irene to maintain direct contact with Chinese fans outside of Red Velvet's group promotions. With schedules spanning Shenzhen, Shanghai and Beijing over several months, the vlog also highlights the continued strength of her individual fanbase and presence in the Chinese market.

In particular, the video offers a closer look at Irene away from Red Velvet's group activities. Rather than centering on a new album or comeback, it documents the singer carrying out her own overseas schedules and interacting directly with fans in China, once again putting the spotlight on her individual presence.

Irene has long maintained a strong following both as a member of Red Velvet and individually. Her latest rise on the K-POPIT Board is particularly notable as it comes without a new music release, with her recent overseas activities instead placing her back at the center of attention.

Meanwhile, Irene made her official solo debut with her first mini album "Like A Flower" in November 2024 and has since continued activities across music, fashion and other individual schedules alongside her work with Red Velvet.