Voting for the August 2026 Netizen Awards Hall of Fame 'Immortal Chairmen' category, which honors legendary entrepreneurs who laid the foundation for South Korea's economic development, is currently underway amid enthusiastic participation from netizens.

■ Founding Chairman Lee Byung-chull Defends Lead with Around 40% of Votes

In the 'Immortal Chairmen' category, Samsung Group founder Hoam Lee Byung-chull, the late chairman, is firmly holding on to first place with a high vote share of around 40%. Founding Chairman Lee has maintained the overwhelming support he has enjoyed since the first half of the year into August, continuing his solid run at the top.

■ Honorary Chairman Chung Ju-yung in Fierce Pursuit... Cementing a 'Two-Horse Race'

Honorary Chairman Chung Ju-yung of Hyundai Group holds second place, staging a relentless pursuit. The two towering figures who drove South Korea's industrialization and economic takeoff account for more than half of all votes, establishing a clear 'two-horse race.'

■ Dr. Yu Il-han in Third Place... Ranking Battle Among the Listed Founders

Third place went to Dr. Yu Il-han, founder of Yuhan Yanghaeng, who is widely regarded as a model of the conscientious businessman. Behind him, founders who left a significant mark on South Korea's economic history—including LG Group founding chairman Koo In-hwoi, former SK Group chairman Choi Jong-hyon, Lotte Group general chairman Shin Kyuk-ho, and former Daewoo Group chairman Kim Woo-choong—are engaged in a heated competition within the rankings.

■ How to Participate in the Voting

The Netizen Awards runs for one month each month, from the first day to the last day of the month, with votes tallied fairly through netizens' real-time participation. Real-time rankings and voting results can be checked via the official website and the dedicated mobile app.