BTS have won Artist of the Year at the 2026 Melon Music Awards (MMA). The award recognises the group's outstanding musical achievements, popularity and influence, marking another memorable moment in a year defined by their highly anticipated return as a full group.
The Artist of the Year award is one of the most coveted honours at the Melon Music Awards. It celebrates the artist whose music and activities have made a significant impact throughout the eligibility period. For BTS, the recognition comes following the release of their fifth studio album, ARIRANG, which has enjoyed considerable attention from listeners in South Korea and around the world.
The group has remained active across multiple areas of the music industry, with their latest album generating impressive streaming numbers and their songs continuing to attract international audiences. Their return has also been accompanied by major promotional activities and a global concert tour, giving fans numerous opportunities to celebrate the seven members together again.
The group's recognition at this year's ceremony reflects the different aspects of their musical activities, from album production and digital performance to their international live performances.
#MMA2026 WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT
— Melon 멜론 (@melon) November 15, 2026
Artist of the Year🏆#방탄소년단 #BTS
Congratulations!@bts_bighit#멜론 #Melon #멜론뮤직어워드 pic.twitter.com/SMUsVdpd6j
Beyond their award-winning album, BTS are currently taking ARIRANG around the world through their ongoing BTS WORLD TOUR ARIRANG. The tour marks an important chapter in the group's journey, bringing all seven members back together on international stages and allowing fans to experience their latest music in a live setting.
Alongside tracks from the new album, the concerts celebrate the group's extensive catalogue and the music that has shaped their career. With audiences gathering across different countries, the tour continues to strengthen the connection between BTS and ARMY while introducing the ARIRANG era to fans worldwide.
Winning Artist of the Year adds another significant achievement to BTS' impressive history at the Melon Music Awards. From their earlier record-breaking success to their latest accomplishments with ARIRANG, the septet continue to demonstrate their lasting influence in the music industry. The honour is another celebration of BTS' return, their music and the remarkable journey they continue to share with fans around the world.
THEY SEND A VIDEO MESSAGE😭 CONGRATULATIONS BTS FOR WINNING THE 'ARTIST OF THE YEAR' AT 2026 MMA !! THEY WORKED SO HARD.. DESERVED !!😭👏🏻#BTS #MMA2026 pic.twitter.com/ZpQkvQfkck
— VinterBear⟭⟬ ⊙⊝⊜ 💜⁷ (@shadowlike_v) November 15, 2026