Global K-pop phenomenon BTS made a spectacular return to the international spotlight by winning the prestigious Artist of the Year award at the 2026 American Music Awards (AMAs) held in Las Vegas.
The fan-favorite group also secured awards for Best Male K-pop Artist and Song of the Summer for their hit track “Swim,” reaffirming their global dominance following their much-awaited comeback after military service.
BTS Defeats Star-Studded Competition
The Artist of the Year category featured some of the biggest names in global music, including Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Bad Bunny, Harry Styles, and Lady Gaga.
Despite the fierce competition, BTS emerged victorious, earning the top AMA honor for the second time after their historic win in 2021.
Accepting the award, BTS leader RM thanked fans worldwide for their unwavering support.
“We made it once again! Our biggest thanks and gratitude, as always, goes to the ARMYs all over the world,” RM said during the ceremony.
He added that fans had stood by the group throughout their 13-year journey.
BTS Returns Strong After Military Hiatus
BTS had temporarily paused group activities in 2022 as all seven members fulfilled South Korea’s mandatory military service requirements.
Earlier this year, the group officially returned with their fifth studio album, Arirang, which created history by topping the Billboard 200 chart for two consecutive weeks — a first for any K-pop act.
The AMAs ceremony also featured a pre-recorded performance by BTS from a recent Las Vegas concert, electrifying fans at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
K-pop Continues Global Rise at AMAs
K-pop artists delivered a strong showing across categories at this year’s American Music Awards.
The Song of the Year award went to EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami for “Golden,” a track featured in the Netflix animated film KPop Demon Hunters.
Meanwhile, global girl group Katseye earned three awards, including New Artist of the Year.
Taylor Swift Leaves Empty-Handed
Heading into the event, Taylor Swift led nominations with eight nods, including Album of the Year for The Life of a Showgirl and Song of the Year for The Fate of Ophelia. However, the music icon did not secure any wins and was absent from the ceremony.
Sabrina Carpenter won Album of the Year for Man’s Best Friend along with two additional awards.
Billy Idol Honored for Lifetime Achievement
Rock legend Billy Idol received the Lifetime Achievement Award during the star-studded evening.
Reflecting on his decades-long music career, the 70-year-old artist said he never imagined punk rock would last “50 years,” before performing his iconic hits “Eyes Without a Face” and “Dancing with Myself.”
