Global K-pop sensation BTS once again proved its worldwide influence after taking home three major awards at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), marking another milestone in the group’s highly anticipated return to the global music scene.
The seven-member group—RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook—won Song of the Year and Best K-Pop for their hit single “SWIM,” while also securing the Best Group award at the ceremony held September 27 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
BTS swept all three categories in which the group was nominated, despite not being present at the awards ceremony.
“SWIM” Makes VMA History
Among the group’s victories, the Song of the Year award marked a particularly significant achievement, with BTS becoming the first K-pop group to win the category.
“SWIM,” the lead single from BTS’ fifth studio album “ARIRANG,” competed against songs from several prominent artists, including Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter’s “Bring Your Love,” RAYE’s “WHERE IS MY HUSBAND!” and HUNTR/X’s “Golden” from the Netflix animated film “KPop Demon Hunters.”
The victory also comes during a major comeback year for BTS, following the group’s reunion as a complete seven-member act earlier this year after a nearly four-year hiatus.
BTS Extends Best Group Record
BTS’ latest Best Group victory also strengthened its place in VMA history.
The group previously won the category for four consecutive years from 2019 to 2022. With its 2026 victory, BTS now holds five Best Group trophies, making the septet the most-awarded act in the category’s history.
The three victories add another chapter to BTS’ long list of international achievements and highlight the group’s enduring popularity even after years spent focusing on military service and individual projects.
BTS Thanks ARMY
Following the wins, BTS expressed its gratitude to ARMY, the group’s global fandom, through a statement released by BIGHIT MUSIC.
The members thanked fans for their continued love and support and described “ARIRANG” as a new beginning for the group, making the latest recognition particularly meaningful.
BTS also credited listeners who supported “SWIM” for helping the song earn the Song of the Year honor and promised that all seven members would continue bringing fans new music and performances together.
With three trophies from three nominations, BTS’ 2026 MTV VMA sweep adds momentum to the group’s new era—showing that after their long-awaited reunion, RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook remain a formidable force on the global music stage.
