If you’re new to the world of K-Pop, you’ve probably heard about Korean music shows—weekly events where idols perform their latest hits and compete for awards. These shows are a major part of K-Pop culture, and as a fan, you play an essential role in helping your favorite artists win.This guide will explain how Korean music shows work, where you need to vote, and how you can support your bias like a pro.

1. What Are Korean Music Shows?

Korean music shows are weekly television programs where idols and artists perform their songs live. These performances are often tied to album promotions or comebacks. At the end of each episode, one artist or group wins a trophy based on several criteria, including fan voting.

‍Popular Korean Music Shows:
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The Show (SBS MTV) – Tuesdays, 6PM KST
Watch on YouTube here
‍
M Countdown (Mnet) – Thursdays, 6PM KST
Official Stream Here
Unofficial Stream Here
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‍Music Bank (KBS) – Fridays, 5PM KST
Watch Live Stream on YouTube
‍
‍Show! Music Core (MBC) – Saturdays
Watch on YouTube here
‍
‍Inkigayo (SBS) – Sundays, 3:50PM KST
Official Stream Here (Only in Korea)
Unofficial Stream Here
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2. How Are Winners Determined?

Each show has its own scoring system, but most include a mix of these factors:
‍
‍Digital Sales (Streaming):
Platforms like Melon, Genie, and Bugs count streams and downloads.

‍Physical Album Sales:
Based on data from Hanteo and Gaon charts.

‍Broadcast Scores:
Airplay on TV and radio programs.

‍Live Voting:
Real-time voting during the broadcast.

‍Pre-Show Voting:
Fans vote on specific platforms ahead of the show.

‍Social Media or Global Votes:
Some shows include votes from international fans via apps like Mubeat and Whosfan.

3. Where to Vote for Korean Music Shows

To support your favorite idols, you’ll need to vote on specific platforms. Here’s a breakdown of the voting methods for each show:

‍The Show (SBS MTV)
Pre-Voting:
‍App: StarPlanet
Duration: Typically opens the week before the show.
Real-Time Voting:
App: StarPlanet
Open during the live broadcast.
Download StarPlanet

‍M Countdown (Mnet)
Pre-Voting:
‍App: Mwave
Duration: Opens several days before the show.
‍Live Voting:
‍Mwave website (available during the live broadcast).

‍Music Bank (KBS)
‍Primarily focuses on digital and album sales.
Voting is not required for this show.

‍Show! Music Core (MBC)
Pre-Voting:
‍App: Mubeat
Duration: Opens a few days before the show.
‍Real-Time Voting:
‍App: Mubeat

‍Inkigayo (SBS)Pre-Voting:
‍App: SBS Kpop
Duration: Opens during the week before the show.
‍Real-Time Voting:
‍App: SBS Kpop
Available during the broadcast.

4. How to Get Started with Voting

Voting for music shows may seem overwhelming at first, but it’s easier than it looks. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:

‍Download the Required Apps:
Install apps like StarPlanet, Mubeat, and Whosfan on your device.

‍Create an Account:
Sign up using your email or social media accounts.

‍Earn or Buy Voting Tickets:
Most apps let you collect free voting tickets by watching ads, completing tasks, or logging in daily. Some apps also allow you to purchase additional tickets.

‍Track Voting Periods:
Follow your fandom’s official accounts on Twitter or check fan updates to stay informed about voting deadlines.

‍Cast Your Votes:
Use your tickets to vote for your favorite artist during the pre-voting and real-time voting periods.

5. Tips for Supporting Your Idol

Join a Fandom Voting Team:
Many fandoms have organized teams that coordinate voting efforts. Joining one can help you stay updated and maximize your impact.
The easiest way is to go on Twitter and search "[Your group] Voting"

‍Stream Consistently:
Digital streaming plays a huge role in music show wins. Use platforms like Melon or Spotify and play your bias’s songs on repeat.

‍Promote on Social Media:
Share updates about voting periods and encourage fellow fans to participate.

‍Avoid Cheating:
Music shows disqualify votes from accounts using bots or unauthorized methods. Stick to fair practices to avoid harming your favorite group’s chances.

6. Why Your Vote Matters

Winning a music show trophy is a big deal for idols—it’s a public acknowledgment of their hard work and your support as a fan. Your votes and streams directly contribute to their success, helping them gain recognition and confidence.

Voting for Korean music shows is one of the most exciting parts of being a K-Pop fan. While it takes some effort to learn the ropes, the joy of seeing your favorite artist win makes it all worth it. By following this guide, you’ll be ready to support your bias and become an active member of the K-Pop community

Are you just starting out as a fan? Finding fellow fandom friends who love what you love could be a good way to get started and fangirl together.

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