January 12, 2026
KPOP GOLDEN DISC AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED!
If you needed a reminder that K-pop is still running the global pop game, the Golden Disc Awards made that crystal clear this year.
Held on Saturday 10 January, the annual South Korean awards ceremony once again celebrated the biggest names, boldest comebacks, and freshest rookies in the industry. The eligibility period covered releases from November 2024 to November 2025, and the night delivered everything fans hoped for: dominant solo wins, powerful group moments, and a strong showing from the next generation of idols.
The undisputed star of the evening was Jennie, who had a truly massive night. She took home Artist of the Year and the Global Impact Award, confirming her status as one of the most influential figures in modern pop. She also won a Digital Song Bonsang for her track “Jennie,” and added another trophy alongside Blackpink, whose comeback track “Jump” also earned a Digital Song Bonsang. Solo icon and group powerhouse in one night is a hard combination to beat.
The biggest awards were spread across some of the most respected names in the industry. Song of the Year went to G-Dragon for “Home Sweet Home,” a win that felt both nostalgic and timeless. Album of the Year was claimed by Stray Kids for Karma, continuing their impressive run as one of K-pop’s most consistent chart-dominators. Best Group Award went to Monsta X, recognising their longevity and continued impact.
Rookie of the Year was shared between Cortis and All Day Project, a clear sign that the industry’s future is already well underway. When it came to pure fan power, Most Popular Male Artist went to Jin of BTS, while Most Popular Female Artist was claimed by newbie girl group Hearts2Hearts, showing just how strong global fandoms remain.
The winners list didn’t stop there. Acts such as TXT, IVE, IZNA, RIIZE, and NCT Wish also walked away with awards, rounding out a night that felt both celebratory and forward-looking.
More than anything, this year’s Golden Disc Awards highlighted how firmly K-pop has cemented itself as a global phenomenon. Interest now stretches far beyond Asia, with international fans closely following every comeback, award win, and career move. If the ceremony is anything to go by, it’s that K-pop’s momentum is far from slowing down.
Written by Sammijoknows
