Highlights from the 35th Seoul Music Awards: A Night of K-Pop Excellence
An Unforgettable Evening at the Seoul Music Awards
The 35th Seoul Music Awards showcased a spectacular night filled with remarkable performances and celebrated artists, uniting some of the most prominent figures in K-Pop. This prestigious event is a highlight on the K-Pop calendar and stands as one of South Korea's longest-running music award ceremonies. The latest edition, which took place on June 20, 2026, featured electrifying performances from renowned groups such as ATEEZ, ZEROBASEONE, LE SSERAFIM, and BOYNEXTDOOR, alongside emerging talents. ATEEZ was honored with the esteemed Daesang (Grand Prize), while BTS received the Special Hallyu Award, marking their continued influence in the industry.
The ceremony unfolded at Inspire Arena in Incheon, recognized as one of K-Pop's most significant award shows. It celebrated the best songs, albums, and artists of 2025, while also bringing together top talents from across Asia for an unforgettable musical experience.
Complete List of Winners
SMA Global Rookie: idntt, MODYSSEY, SAY MY NAMENew Artist Award: idid, AHOF, CLOSE YOUR EYES, ALPHA DRIVE ONE
Bongsang: kiiikiii, Hearts2Hearts, ALPHA DRIVE ONE, WJSN’s Dayoung, ZEROBASEONE, Kwon Eunbi, LE SSERAFIM, BOYNEXTDOOR, Lee Chae Won, ATEEZ K-Pop World Choice (Group): Super Junior
K-Pop World Choice (Solo): TXT’s Yeonjun
Best Performance: izna, xikers
Band Award: Dragon Pony
Rock/Ballad Award: Hanroro
Trot Award: Lee Chae Won
OST Award: ZEROBASEONE’s Sung Hanbin
R&B/Hip Hop: BOYNEXTDOOR Best Solo: Dayoung
Best Group: ZEROBASEONE
Legend Award: Roo’RA
Golden Revival Award: EXO’s The First Snow
New Icon Award: Kyungsoo (EXO's D.O)
Popularity Award: Lee Chan Won
SMA Best Artist Award: Lee Chan Won World Best Artist Award: LE SSERAFIM, BOYNEXTDOOR
Best Album: ZEROBASEONE, BOYNEXTDOOR
Special Hallyu Award: BTS
Best Song: Spaghetti by LE SSERAFIM and J-Hope
The Daesang (Grand Prize): ATEEZ
About the Seoul Music Awards
Established in 1990, the Seoul Music Awards began with singer Byun Jin-Sub receiving the Grand Prize. This significant awards show, organized by Sports Seoul, selects winners based on a combination of music sales, public votes, and expert evaluations. BTS holds the record for the most awards, with a total of 33 wins. The Grand Prize (Daesang) is the highest accolade, typically awarded to one artist or group each year, while the Main Awards (Bonsang) recognize multiple artists for their contributions to music. The Popularity Award is determined by votes from South Korean fans, and the K-Wave Special Award is based on international fan votes.