Ateez, Stray Kids, BTS's Jimin, Tomorrow X Together's Yeonjun, and ILLIT each won prestigious awards at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards held on March 17 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The annual awards, celebrated since 2014, highlighted K-pop's growing influence and prominence within the global music industry, along with notable performances by artists like Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga.
Ateez demonstrated their global rise by winning the coveted K-pop Artist of the Year award. The eight-member boy band, under KQ Entertainment, secured this title against stiff competition from several high-profile nominees such as BTS's Jimin and BLACKPINK's Lisa, as well as fellow K-pop acts aespa and ENHYPEN. The group’s distinct style and electrifying performances solidify their reputation, contributing to the increasing recognition of K-pop worldwide.
Stray Kids captured the K-pop Album of the Year award with their ninth EP, titled "ATE," which was released last July. Their achievement showcases their continued growth and popularity within the competitive K-pop scene, solidifying their position as leaders of the fourth generation of K-pop.
Meanwhile, BTS's Jimin achieved significant recognition as well, winning the K-pop Song of the Year award for his solo track "Who." Released as the lead single from his album "Muse," Jimin’s powerful and emotionally charged vocals won him acclaim from fans and critics alike, allowing the track to stand out amid fierce competition. Jimin was nominated alongside other K-pop hits, including Stray Kids' "Chk Chk Boom," ILLIT's "Magnetic," aespa's "Supernova," and ENHYPEN's "XO (Only If You Say Yes)."
Newly debuted ILLIT also made headlines by being awarded Best New K-pop Artist, overcoming strong contenders such as BABYMONSTER, BADVILLAIN, and NCT WISH. This accolade solidifies their status as promising new talent within the K-pop sphere.
Yeonjun from TOMORROW X TOGETHER won the inaugural Favorite K-pop Dance Challenge award for his solo debut single "GGUM." Highlighting the popularity of dance among K-pop fans, this new category was determined via fan votes, demonstrating the close connection between artists and their audience.
The iHeartRadio Music Awards this year not only recognized K-pop artists but also featured numerous categories where they made their presence felt beyond genre-specific awards. Jimin's song "Who" was nominated for Best Lyrics, showcasing the lyrical quality of K-pop music, though it was edged out by Taylor Swift and Post Malone’s collaboration, "Fortnight," which won the category.
Similarly, BTS's Jimin and Jungkook's Disney+ series "Are You Sure?!" was nominated for Favorite On Screen, but it was Taylor Swift's highly publicized "The Eras Tour (Taylor’s Version)" film which took the top honor.
The night clearly illustrated the growing impact of K-pop on the international music scene, showcasing artists who not only thrive within their genre but also excel on broader stages. Fans took to social media to celebrate the wins, reflecting on the powerful connection between the artists and their global audience.
The event was hosted by LL COOL J, who highlighted the evening's significance as he presented the awards, creating memorable moments for both the artists and their fans. K-pop's increasing visibility reflects its cultural significance, with such events celebrating tremendous achievements within the genre.
This year, the addition of categories like the Favorite K-pop Dance Challenge signifies how K-pop evolves to stay relevant, engaging fans who partake enthusiastically through social media interactions. It sets new precedents for future awards, demonstrating the genre's dynamic nature.
The iHeartRadio Music Awards 2025 has undeniably showcased the colorful diversity and rising feature of K-pop artists. With their captivating performances, emotional storytelling, and avid favorable reception; the K-pop community continues to demonstrate why it is considered one of the most vibrant scenes in the modern music industry.
The wins by Ateez, Stray Kids, Jimin, ILLIT, and Yeonjun highlight not only their individual talent but also the collective impact of K-pop on global culture. Fans eagerly await the new music and performances coming from these dynamic artists, showcasing the promise of yet another exciting year for K-pop.
