BTS and BLACKPINK are making waves ahead of the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2025, with both iconic K-pop groups receiving multiple nominations in several major categories. This recognition further cements the growing influence of K-pop on the global music scene.
BTS’s Jimin is leading the charge with four nominations. His solo track WHO, from his second solo album, has earned him three nominations in highly competitive categories: K-pop Artist of the Year, K-pop Song of the Year, and Best Lyrics. Furthermore, Jimin’s variety show Are You Sure?!, which he co-hosted with BTS member Jungkook, is up for the Favourite On-Screen Award, showcasing his versatility beyond music.
BLACKPINK’s members are also in the running for prestigious honors. Lisa’s ROCKSTAR, the lead single from her debut album Alter Ego, and Rosé’s international hit APT., a collaboration with Bruno Mars, have both earned nominations for Best Music Video. These tracks are up against some of the biggest stars in the industry, including Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa, Sabrina Carpenter, Lady Gaga, and Kendrick Lamar.
The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards continue to recognize the best in K-pop, with other notable nominations across multiple categories. Here is a full list of the K-pop nominations:
K-pop Artist of the Year
- aespa
- ATEEZ
- ENHYPEN
- Jimin
- Lisa
K-pop Song of the Year
- Chk Boom by Stray Kids
- Magnetic by ILLIT
- Supernova by aespa
- Who by Jimin
- XO (Only If You Say Yes) by ENHYPEN
Best New Artist (K-pop)
- BABYMONSTER
- BADVILLAIN
- ILLIT
Favourite K-pop Dance Challenge
- LE SSERAFIM
- KISS OF LIE
- Karina from aespa
- ILLIT
- ENHYPEN
- ATEEZ
- aespa
Despite K-pop’s notable absence from the 2025 Grammy nominations, the iHeartRadio Music Awards have showcased the genre’s expanding reach, further solidifying the global popularity of South Korean pop music. With its continued influence, K-pop is undeniably carving out a permanent space in the global music industry.
