The 34th Seoul Music Awards wrapped up with a night of big wins and memorable milestones for some of K-pop’s biggest names. Held at the Inspire Arena in Incheon, the event recognized outstanding talent across the industry, from rookie groups to global icons.
I-DLE Creates History with Daesang Win
I-DLE emerged as the biggest highlight of the evening by clinching the coveted Daesang (Grand Prize), becoming the first female act since Girls’ Generation in 2010 to receive this honour at the Seoul Music Awards. This also marked I-DLE’s first-ever Daesang at the event. In addition to the top prize, they also took home a Bonsang (Main Award), further cementing their powerhouse status in the K-pop scene.
TXT Scores Triple Victory
TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) delivered a hat-trick performance this year, winning Best Song for their 2024 hit Deja Vu, Best Album, and a Bonsang. The group’s consistent chart-topping releases and growing global fanbase were reflected in their dominant presence at the awards.
BTS’ RM and Jimin Receive Individual Honors
BTS members RM and Jimin were also recognized individually. RM, the group’s leader, received the R&B/Hip Hop Award, while Jimin was honoured with the Korean Wave Award, celebrating his influence in spreading K-pop globally.
BLACKPINK’s Rosé and aespa Shine as World Best Artists
Rosé of BLACKPINK and aespa were jointly awarded World Best Artist, recognizing their international impact. Rosé also received a Bonsang, highlighting her solo achievements alongside BLACKPINK’s global dominance.
Complete Winners List
Here’s a breakdown of who won what at the 34th Seoul Music Awards:
- Daesang (Grand Prize): I-DLE
- Best Song: TXT
- Best Album: TXT, ZEROBASEONE
- World Best Artist: aespa, Rosé (BLACKPINK)
- Bonsang (Main Awards): aespa, Doyoung (NCT), ENHYPEN, G-Dragon (BIGBANG), I-DLE, ILLIT, NCT DREAM, NCT WISH, P1Harmony, PLAVE, QWER, Rosé (BLACKPINK), SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, TXT, Young Tak, ZEROBASEONE
- Best Group: ILLIT, NCT WISH
- Best Solo Artist: Doyoung (NCT)
- Rookie of the Year: Hearts2Hearts, KickFlip, KiiiKiii
- K-Pop World Choice (Group): BABYMONSTER
- K-Pop World Choice (Solo): Young Tak
- R&B/Hip Hop Award: RM (BTS)
- Ballad Award: Hwang Karam
- Trot Award: Young Tak
- OST Award: Young Tak
- Band Award: wave to earth
- Best Performance Award: CRAVITY, FIFTY FIFTY
- Korean Wave Award: Jimin (BTS)
- Discovery of the Year: SAY MY NAME
- K-Pop Special Award: BTOB
- Popularity Award: Lee Chan Won
- Rising Star: VVUP
From breakthrough newcomers like ILLIT and KickFlip to veteran acts like G-Dragon and SEVENTEEN, the awards spotlighted a wide range of talent and musical styles. As the K-pop industry continues to expand its global reach, the 34th Seoul Music Awards served as a powerful reminder of the genre’s dynamic and diverse landscape.
