K-Pop Dominates 2026 American Music Awards Nominations

The 2026 American Music Awards nominations have been unveiled, highlighting a strong presence of K-pop artists, including BTS and Blackpink. BTS is competing for Artist of the Year with their latest album ARIRANG, while Blackpink and KPop Demon Hunters also received significant nods. The awards ceremony will take place on May 25, with fans encouraged to vote until May 8. This year's nominations reflect key fan interactions and data from Billboard and Luminate, showcasing the growing influence of K-pop in the global music scene.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 15, 2026, 16:14 IST

Major Nominations Announced for the 2026 AMAs

The nominations for the 2026 American Music Awards (AMAs) have been revealed, showcasing a significant presence of K-pop artists in key categories. BTS is kicking off the competition with their latest album, ARIRANG, while Blackpink and KPop Demon Hunters have also secured nominations. Leading the nominations are Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter, followed closely by Post Malone and Billie Eilish. This prestigious music award ceremony will be held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 25, hosted by Queen Latifah. Fans can vote online and through the official AMA Instagram account until May 8. The nominees were selected based on various fan interactions, including streaming, sales, radio play, and tour earnings, using data from Billboard and Luminate, covering the period from March 21, 2025, to March 26, 2026.

BTS Secures Second Nomination for Artist of the Year

BTS earns second Artist of the Year nom at AMAs

BTS, recognized as one of the world's leading bands, has made a remarkable return with their fifth studio album, ARIRANG. As the members RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook embark on their ongoing world tour, they have made a significant impact at the AMAs with three major nominations: Artist of the Year, Song of Summer for 'SWIM', and Best Male K-pop Artist for ARIRANG. BTS previously won the Artist of the Year award in 2021, making them the first Korean act to achieve this honor, and they are now vying for a second win. This year, they are up against global stars like Bad Bunny, Bruno Mars, Taylor Swift, and Lady Gaga.

Blackpink and KATSEYE Shine at the AMAs

Blackpink, KATSEYE at AMAs

In addition, Tame Impala and Blackpink's Jennie have received a nomination for their remix of 'Dracula' in the Song of the Summer category, competing alongside BTS' 'SWIM'. KATSEYE has also garnered three nominations, including New Artist of the Year, Best Music Video for 'Gnarly', and Breakthrough Pop Artist.

KPop Demon Hunters Competes for Multiple Awards

KPop Demon Hunters on way to slay AMAs too

The Netflix animated feature KPop Demon Hunters is also in the running for several awards at the AMAs. Its Oscar-winning song 'Golden', performed by HUNTR/X's EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, has received nominations for Best Soundtrack, Song of the Year, Best Pop Song, and Best Vocal Performances.

Intense Competition in K-Pop Categories

Best in K-pop

The Best Male K-Pop Artist category features a fierce competition among ATEEZ, BTS, ENHYPEN, Stray Kids, and TXT. Meanwhile, the nominations for Best Female K-Pop Artist include aespa, Blackpink, ILLIT, LE SSERAFIM, and TWICE.