K-Pop continues to dominate the global music industry, with record-breaking album sales, viral hits, and sold-out world tours. Yet, when it comes to the prestigious GRAMMY Awards, K-Pop artists often find themselves overlooked. In 2024, numerous K-Pop acts submitted their songs and albums for various GRAMMY categories, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, and Best Music Video. Despite their undeniable influence, only two K-Pop acts received nominations for the 2025 GRAMMYs.
This left many artists and fans frustrated, questioning why these global icons weren’t given their due recognition. To highlight the most deserving contenders, fans voted on which K-Pop artists truly deserved to take home a GRAMMY.
7. Stray Kids – ATE
Stray Kids never fails to bring innovation to K-Pop, and their album ATE was no exception. The group described ATE as their most authentic and experimental project to date, marking several firsts for them. Despite its impact, the album only secured 1% of the vote (188 votes) from fans,
6. Stray Kids – “Chk Chk Boom”
Another Stray Kids entry on the list, “Chk Chk Boom,” was one of the most energetic tracks of the year. Despite its dynamic production and strong fan support, it only gathered 2% of the vote (259 votes). A song this powerful should have gotten more mainstream recognition!
5. Jimin (BTS) – Muse
BTS member Jimin made waves with his second solo album Muse, which showcased his artistic growth and unique vocal style. Fans gave it 2% of the vote (313 votes), proving that Jimin’s music resonates worldwide.
4. Jungkook (BTS) – “Standing Next To You”
Jungkook’s smooth and mesmerizing track “Standing Next To You” quickly became a fan favorite. It garnered 3% of the vote (370 votes), further cementing his status as a global pop sensation. With its timeless sound and strong chart performance, the song emerged as a strong contender for a GRAMMY.
3. Jungkook (BTS) – GOLDEN
With 6% of the vote (861 votes), Jungkook’s debut solo album GOLDEN earned the third spot on this list. This album highlighted his versatility and cemented his place as a solo powerhouse. If GRAMMY voters were truly paying attention to international trends, GOLDEN would have been a top contender.
2. Jimin (BTS) – “Who”
Jimin’s single “Who” proved to be an undeniable hit, with 7% of fans (1,045 votes) believing it should have taken home a GRAMMY. The song’s emotional depth and addictive melody make it an unforgettable piece in his discography.
1. V (BTS) – “FRI(END)S”
Taking the number one spot by an overwhelming margin, BTS’s V and his heartfelt solo track “FRI(END)S” dominated the fan votes. With a staggering 10,164 votes (73%), fans believe this song was the biggest GRAMMY snub of the year. The song’s raw emotion, dreamy vocals, and lyrical depth make it an undeniable masterpiece that deserves the highest industry recognition.
The Bigger Question: Why Does the GRAMMYs Overlook K-Pop?
The exclusion of K-Pop artists from major categories despite their global dominance raises important questions about the GRAMMYs’ recognition process. Many argue that the music industry’s Western-centric lens continues to underestimate the influence and artistry of K-Pop, limiting opportunities for these artists to be acknowledged on the world’s biggest stage.
Despite the snubs, K-Pop’s impact remains undeniable. The genre continues to break barriers, and if the GRAMMYs don’t catch up, they risk losing relevance in an increasingly globalized music industry. Until then, fans will continue to celebrate and uplift their favorite artists, award or not.
