While many Kpop idol groups have been laying low when it comes to promotions in the face of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)  global health pandemic, BTS has retained its lead over male idol groups in Korea for the month of March.  Internet sensation LOONA jumped to the lead of brand reputation rankings for female idol groups.

According to a report by Soompi, the Korean Business Research Institute revealed the results of its monthly survey to determine the brand reputation rankings of Kpop idols in Korea. The survey was conducted through analysis of the consumer participation, media coverage, interaction, and community indexes of idol groups from February 12 to March 13.

BTS maintained its foothold on the top of the rankings for the 22nd consecutive month with a brand reputation index of 12,903,195. Based on the keyword analysis, BTS topped the list with "Billboard," "album," and "ON." Their highest ranking related terms are cheer on, thankful and donate. This could be related to BTS' recent comeback with Map of the Soul 7 as well as various charitable acts undertaken by the members and BTS ARMY at the height of the COVID-19 outbreak in Korea.

BTS members were also promoting well in the US and appeared in many American talk shows to perform Black Swan and their latest single ON. BTS also posted much content on live broadcasts to keep fans updated about their activities in the coming weeks.

EXO also held on to the second spot while their labelmates NCT took the third spot. The rest of the Top 10 was made up of SHINee, SEVENTEEN, PENTAGON, Super Junior, ASTRO, The Boyz and VIXX.

Meanwhile, LOONA ruled the March brand reputation index for female girl groups after it posted a brand reputation index of 5,458,749 for March. LOONA's positivity-negativity analysis also revealed a score of 68.09 percent positive reactions.LOONA topped for the keywords advance," "thankful," and "re-enact." Its highest ranking related terms were "So What," "Chuu," and "Billboard."

In second place was (G)IDLE while BLACKPINK, who is expected to make a major comeback soon, rounded up the third spot.

ITZY has been maintaining its positive showing in the brand reputation rankings as it came in at  fourth place. SM Entertainment's Red Velvet is at fifth place with fans anticipating the return of injured member Wendy in the coming days.GFRIEND, IZ*ONE, Girls' Generation, TWICE and Rocket Punch made up the rest of the Top 10.