The 40th Golden Disc Awards took place in Taipei on January 10, 2026, celebrating the outstanding achievements of K-Pop artists over the past year. The ceremony highlighted the immense popularity and commercial success of these acts, with awards primarily determined by sales and streaming figures. This year’s event introduced a new prestigious category, the Daesang for Artist of the Year, further elevating the significance of the awards.
Among the standout winners, Jennie from BLACKPINK took home the coveted Artist of the Year award, showcasing her remarkable impact on the industry. G-DRAGON, a veteran in the scene, secured the Song of the Year award for his track “HOME SWEET HOME,” featuring Taeyang and Daesung, demonstrating his enduring influence and creativity in K-Pop.
Key Awards and Winners
The Best Digital Song (Bonsang) category highlighted a diverse range of talent, with BOYNEXTDOOR winning for their emotional track “If I Say, I Love You.” Other notable nominees included LE SSERAFIM with “Hot” and Rosé for “toxic till the end.” The competition was fierce, as K-Pop continues to evolve and capture global audiences.
In the Best Album (Bonsang) category, Stray Kids won for their acclaimed album “KARMA.” Other nominees included IVE with “IVE” and NCT with “COLOR.” The variety of nominated albums reflects K-Pop’s rich and dynamic music landscape.
The evening also recognized emerging artists and innovative contributions to the industry. The Rookie Artist of the Year award went to CORTIS, while the Global Impact Award was presented to Jennie, acknowledging her profound influence beyond the borders of South Korea.
Additional Recognitions
The Golden Choice Award was granted to ARrC for their work “CLOSE YOUR EYES,” while the Next Generation Award went to KiiiKiii. The Best Performance Award was awarded to izna for their electrifying stage presence.
Fans played a crucial role in the outcome of the Upbit Most Popular Artist award, which was won by Jin, illustrating the strong connection between artists and their supporters. The night was a testament to the vibrant K-Pop scene, showcasing both established stars and new talent.
The 40th Golden Disc Awards not only celebrated the achievements of individual artists but also underscored the collaborative spirit of the K-Pop community. As the genre continues to expand globally, events like these serve as a reminder of the cultural impact K-Pop has achieved and its promising future in the music industry.
