Historic Grammy Nominations for K-Pop Artists

The 68th Annual Grammy Awards have marked a significant milestone for K-pop, with BLACKPINK's Rosé and the animated Netflix production *KPop Demon Hunters* receiving nominations in the prestigious General Fields categories. Rosé, a member of BLACKPINK, has become the first K-pop artist to be nominated for the Grammy's main categories, including Song of the Year and Record of the Year for her hit single "APT." This achievement highlights the growing recognition of K-pop in the global music landscape.

KPop Demon Hunters and Rosé make K-pop history with Grammy general field nominationsBLACKPINK’s Rosé and ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ Make Grammy’s Main Categories—A Historic First for K-popHollywood ReporterABC NewsBillboard

Rosé's nominations include three categories: Song of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, the latter for her collaboration with Bruno Mars on "APT." The song has achieved remarkable success, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remaining on the chart for 45 weeks. Meanwhile, *KPop Demon Hunters* secured five nominations, including Song of the Year for its original soundtrack "Golden," performed by the fictional K-pop group HUNTR/X. This is the first time any K-pop project has been nominated in these prestigious categories.

KPop Demon Hunters and Rosé make K-pop history with Grammy general field nominationsABC NewsBLACKPINK’s Rosé and ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ Make Grammy’s Main Categories—A Historic First for K-popHollywood ReporterBillboard

The nominations signify a breakthrough for K-pop, which has been striving for recognition in Western music awards. BTS previously paved the way with their nominations, but Rosé's achievements represent a new level of acknowledgment for female K-pop artists. Additionally, the girl group KATSEYE, formed through a reality competition, received nominations for Best New Artist and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, further emphasizing the genre's expanding influence.

KPop Demon Hunters and Rosé make K-pop history with Grammy general field nominations

Rosé expressed her excitement about the nominations, stating, “I think it’ll be a moment that proves to myself so many things that I grew up doubting.” She emphasized the significance of this recognition for herself and for others who believe in her journey. The Recording Academy's acknowledgment of K-pop artists in major categories reflects a shift in the industry's perception of the genre.

Hollywood Reporter

Despite the celebratory atmosphere surrounding these nominations, some critics argue that the recognition of K-pop artists at the Grammys is long overdue and highlights the industry's previous reluctance to embrace non-Western music. The lack of a Grammy win for K-pop artists, despite multiple nominations over the years, continues to be a point of contention among fans and industry observers.

BLACKPINK’s Rosé and ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ Make Grammy’s Main Categories—A Historic First for K-pop

The 68th Annual Grammy Awards will take place on February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. As the event approaches, anticipation builds around whether K-pop artists will secure a win in these prestigious categories, marking a historic moment for the genre.

BLACKPINK’s Rosé and ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ Make Grammy’s Main Categories—A Historic First for K-pop

• “I think it’ll be a moment that proves to myself so many things that I grew up doubting,” — Rosé, BLACKPINK

Hollywood Reporter

• “It’s still a dream for me,” — Rosé, reflecting on her Grammy aspirations.

Billboard

This year's nominations not only celebrate individual achievements but also represent a significant cultural moment for K-pop on a global stage.

BLACKPINK’s Rosé and ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ Make Grammy’s Main Categories—A Historic First for K-pop