Asian Pop Music Awards announces Best Album of the Year Nominees

The Asian Pop Music Awards, or APMA, is basically the big end-of-year party for Asian pop music, bringing together huge stars from all over the region. The whole thing started taking shape back in 2018, and by 2019 they had their own chart system up and running before launching the first official ceremony in 2020. Since then it’s become one of those events fans look forward to every year. The 2025 nominees were just announced, and the awards ceremony is coming up later this month, setting the stage for some of the biggest names in K-pop, J-pop, Mandopop, and more to compete for major titles like Best Album of the Year

Jennie has had a massive year with her debut solo album Ruby, her first full-length release after leaving YG Entertainment and launching her own label. Ruby blends pop, hip-hop and R&B across 15 tracks and features a host of high-profile collaborators from Dua Lipa to Childish Gambino, showcasing her versatility and global appeal. The album topped charts around the world and made year-end best-of lists, marking a major milestone in her solo career.

G-Dragon’s Übermensch marked his full comeback in 2025, his third studio album and first in many years. Named after a philosophical concept, the record mixes hip-hop, industrial pop and electronic sounds on a personal and ambitious set of tracks. It’s his first major release since leaving his long-time label and has been promoted alongside a world tour, reaffirming his status as one of K-pop’s most influential figures.

Jackson Wang’s MAGICMAN 2 continues the artistic journey he began with his earlier Magicman era, further establishing his identity as a solo artist outside of the group he debuted with. The album blends polished pop production with emotional and stylistic depth, as he balances confidence and vulnerability across its songs.

Lay Zhang’s Rock the Heavenly Palace (also listed under its Chinese title Nao Tian Gong) draws on traditional and contemporary influences, blending pop sensibilities with motifs from his cultural heritage. Lay’s work consistently pushes the boundary of Mandopop and brings a theatrical, conceptual feel to his music that resonates strongly with fans.

K-pop juggernauts Seventeen celebrated a decade of success with HAPPY BURSTDAY, an album full of upbeat, celebratory tracks that harness the group’s tight harmonies and production skills. Known for their synchronized performance and rich discography, this release was a fan favorite and milestone project.

RIIZE’s ODYSSEY positions the relatively new group as one of the rising forces in K-pop. The record carries energetic beats and an adventurous feel, presenting a fresh and youthful sound that’s helped build their reputation as one of the scene’s most exciting newer acts.

Rosé’s solo album rosie highlights her distinct vocal tone and emotional range. After success with BLACKPINK, her solo work leans into mood-driven pop and balladry, blending powerful vocals with personal storytelling that helped her stand out both domestically and internationally.

Taiwanese pop icon Jolin Tsai’s Pleasure delivers a sleek, dance-pop infused set of tracks that explore themes of desire and self-expression. Jolin has long been a defining figure in Mandopop, and this album continues her tradition of fusing catchy pop with bold artistic flair.

Indonesian singer RAISA’s ambiVert offers a more introspective sound, blending soul, R&B and contemporary pop in a way that spotlights her rich vocal delivery and emotional nuance. Her music stands out for its smooth, expressive quality and songwriting depth.

Japanese rock/pop band RADWIMPS round out the nominees with Anew, an album that spans their signature cinematic rock and melodic ballads. Known for both their soundtrack work and band albums, this release delivers their trademark thoughtful musicianship and lyrical depth.

All of these albums represent different corners of the Asian pop world, from established superstars pushing their boundaries to newer acts staking their claim on the global stage.

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