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Melon Music Awards 2026 Announces Nominees For Category Awards + TOP10 Winners

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#ALPHA DRIVE ONE #Hearts2Hearts #BOYNEXTDOOR #BABYMONSTER #LE SSERAFIM #Stray Kids

🗓️ Oct 30, 2026, 6:10 AM UTC⏱️ 2 min read👀 2 views💬 0

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1The next round of voting is underway for the Melon Music Awards 2026!On October 30, the Melon Music Awards 2026 (hereafter MMA 2026) announced the nominees for…
2In order to be eligible, the music must have been

Melon Music Awards 2026 Announces Nominees For Category Awards + TOP10 Winners

The next round of voting is underway for the Melon Music Awards 2026!

On October 30, the Melon Music Awards 2026 (hereafter MMA 2026) announced the nominees for 12 categories that will have winners determined in part by fan votes.

In order to be eligible, the music must have been released between November 20, 2025 and October 14, 2026.

The TOP10, Global TOP10, Album of the Year, Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, New Artist of the Year, Best Solo, Best Group, Best OST, and Best Pop Artist are all determined by 60% digital score, 20% panel review, and 20% votes. TrackZero Choice is determined by 20% digital score, 60% panel review, and 20% votes. Other awards such as Record of the Year, Global-K of the Year, and more will be 100% determined by panel review.

Voting for the TOP10 took place from October 15 through October 29, and the final winners became the nominees for Artist of the Year.

Here are the nominees for the category awards:

Artist of the Year (TOP10 winners)

AKMU

BTS × BTS About group BTS BTS (방탄소년단) is a South Korean K-pop group formed by BigHit Music and debuted on June 13, 2013. The group consists of seven members: RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Known for their powerful performances, meaningful lyrics, and strong connection with fans, BTS has become one of the most successful and influential music groups in the world. Their music explores themes such as youth, self-discovery, mental health, love, and personal growth, helping them build a dedicated global fanbase known as ARMY. Since their debut, BTS has achieved record-breaking success across the global music industry with hit songs such as “Dynamite,” “Butter,” “Spring Day,” “Boy With Luv,” and “Fake Love.” The group has earned numerous awards, topped charts in multiple countries, sold millions of albums, and helped introduce K-pop to a broader international audience. Through their artistry, cultural Tap again to view profile → Close

CORTIS × CORTIS About group CORTIS CORTIS is a five-member boy group under BIGHIT MUSIC consisting of MARTIN, JAMES, JUHOON, SEONGHYEON and KEONHO. The group debuted in 2025. The name CORTIS is derived from the phrase "COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES" and represents thinking freely beyond conventional rules and standards. The members participate collaboratively in music, choreography, performance and visual production. Tap again to view profile → Close

Hearts2Hearts × About group Hearts2Hearts Hearts2Hearts (하츠투하츠) is an 8-member girl group under SM Entertainment, debuting in 2025 with a fresh, emotional pop sound and a global focus. Tap again to view profile → Close

I.O.I

ILLIT × ILLIT About group ILLIT ILLIT (아일릿) is a five-member girl group under BELIFT LAB consisting of YUNAH, MINJU, MOKA, WONHEE, and IROHA. The group officially debuted on March 25, 2024. The name ILLIT combines “I will” with “it,” representing the members' independent spirit and potential to become something unique. Tap again to view profile → Close

IVE × IVE About group IVE IVE is a six-member girl group recognized for chic visuals, confident concepts, and strong chart performance. Tap again to view profile → Close

KiiiKiii

NCT × NCT About group NCT NCT is a South Korean boy group formed by SM Entertainment with a unique multi-unit concept. There are 6 units within NCT; NCT 127, NCT DREAM, NCT WISH, WayV, NCT U, NCT DOJAEJUNG. Tap again to view profile → Close WISH

PLAVE

Album of the Year

aespa × aespa About group aespa aespa is a South Korean girl group formed by SM Entertainment, consisting of Karina, Giselle, Winter, and Ningning. Since their debut in 2020, aespa has gained international recognition for their innovative concept that combines music, storytelling, and virtual avatars, creating a unique identity within the K-pop industry. Known for their powerful vocals, dynamic performances, and futuristic sound, the group has consistently topped charts and attracted a growing global fanbase. With hit songs such as “Black Mamba,” “Next Level,” “Savage,” “Spicy,” and “Supernova,” aespa has established itself as one of the leading fourth-generation K-pop groups. Their distinctive blend of pop, electronic, and experimental music, combined with strong visual concepts and world tours, continues to expand their influence and popularity among fans around the world. Tap again to view profile → Close – “LEMONADE”

AKMU – “FLOWERING”

ALLDAY PROJECT – “ALLDAY PROJECT”

BTS – “ARIRANG”

CORTIS – “GREENGREEN”

I.O.I – “I.O.I : LOOP”

ILLIT – “MAMIHLAPINATAPAI”

IVE – “REVIVE+”

KiiiKiii – “Delulu Pack”

Yena × Artist bio YENA Real name: Choi Ye-naPosition: Soloist, Singer, Rapper, ActressNationality: South KoreanBirthday: 1999-09-29 YENA is a South Korean solo singer, rapper, and actress. She is a former member of IZ*ONE and launched her solo career in 2022. YENA is known for a bright, energetic, humorous, and expressive personality. Her public appearances often show a playful side, while her solo work also reflects determination and a willingness to experiment with different concepts. Tap again to view profile → Close – “LOVE CATCHER”

Song of the Year

aespa – “LEMONADE”

AKMU – “Paradise of Rumors”

BTS – “SWIM”

CORTIS – “REDRED”

Hearts2Hearts – “RUDE!”

I.O.I – “Suddenly”

ILLIT – “It’s Me”

KiiiKiii – “404 (New Era)”

Yena – “Catch Catch”

Global TOP10

aespa

BABYMONSTER × About group BABYMONSTER BABYMONSTER is a multinational girl group under YG Entertainment. They debuted as a full ensemble on April 1, 2024. Tap again to view profile → Close

BIGBANG × BIGBANG About group BIGBANG BIGBANG is a South Korean boy group that debuted in 2006. Known for major influence on modern K-pop, the group is widely associated with hits across multiple eras and a strong global fanbase. The group is commonly treated as currently active with G-DRAGON, Taeyang, and Daesung. Tap again to view profile → Close

BLACKPINK × About group BLACKPINK BLACKPINK is one of the most influential K-pop girl groups in the world, known for their powerful performances, global chart success, and distinctive blend of pop, hip-hop, EDM, and rap. Formed by YG Entertainment, the group consists of Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa. Since their debut in 2016, BLACKPINK has achieved numerous milestones, including record-breaking music videos, sold-out world tours, and collaborations with internationally recognized artists. With a dedicated global fanbase known as BLINK, BLACKPINK continues to shape the modern K-pop industry through their music, fashion influence, and worldwide cultural impact. The group has earned recognition for hit songs such as “DDU-DU DDU-DU,” “How You Like That,” “Pink Venom,” and “Shut Down,” while establishing themselves as one of the most successful and recognizable Korean music acts of all time! Tap again to view profile → Close

BOYNEXTDOOR × About group BOYNEXTDOOR BOYNEXTDOOR is a six-member South Korean boy group under KOZ Entertainment. The group consists of SUNGHO, RIWOO, JAEHYUN, TAESAN, LEEHAN, and WOONHAK. They officially debuted on May 30, 2023. The group's name reflects the idea of approachable "boys next door," with music centered on relatable stories, everyday experiences, and the emotions of youth. Their official fandom name is ONEDOOR. Tap again to view profile → Close

BTS

CORTIS

ENHYPEN × ENHYPEN About group ENHYPEN ENHYPEN is a six member boy group formed through I-LAND, known for powerful performances, storytelling concepts, and global popularity. Tap again to view profile → Close

EXO × EXO About group EXO EXO is a globally influential K-pop boy group known for powerful vocals, polished performances, and a strong legacy in modern K-pop. Since debuting in 2012, EXO has shaped the sound and visuals of an entire generation. Tap again to view profile → Close

G-DRAGON × Artist bio G-DRAGON Real name: Kwon Ji-yongPosition: Leader, Rapper, VocalistNationality: South KoreanBirthday: 1988-08-18Birthplace: Seoul, South Korea G-DRAGON is the leader of BIGBANG and one of the most influential artists in modern K-pop. He is known for shaping the group’s sound and image through songwriting, production, and concept direction. He is widely recognized for distinctive performance style and creative leadership, and he has maintained a major solo career alongside group activities. G-Dragon is a visionary leader and producer, known for his experimental fashion sense, creative risk-taking, and quiet but intense personality. Tap again to view profile → Close

Hearts2Hearts

i-dle

ILLIT

IU × Artist bio IU Real name: Lee Ji-eunPosition: Soloist, Singer-Songwriter, ActressNationality: South KoreanBirthday: 1993-05-16Birthplace: Seoul, South Korea IU is a South Korean singer-songwriter and actress known for her distinctive vocals, songwriting, and extensive career in music and acting. IU is known for a thoughtful and introspective public persona and for taking an active role in the creative direction of her music. Tap again to view profile → Close

IVE

Jennie × Artist bio Jennie Real name: Kim JenniePosition: Main Rapper, Lead VocalistNationality: KoreanBirthday: 1996-01-16Birthplace: Anyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea Jennie is BLACKPINK's main rapper and lead vocalist, known for her charismatic stage presence and luxury brand image. Jennie often appears chic and confident on stage but is more shy and soft spoken off stage, with a thoughtful personality and playful sense of humor. Tap again to view profile → Close

LE SSERAFIM × About group LE SSERAFIM LE SSERAFIM is a five-member multinational girl group under SOURCE MUSIC, consisting of SAKURA, KIM CHAEWON, HUH YUNJIN, KAZUHA and HONG EUNCHAE. The group debuted on May 2, 2022. Their name is an anagram of "I'M FEARLESS" and represents moving forward fearlessly without being swayed by the expectations of the world. Tap again to view profile → Close

NCT DREAM

NCT WISH

NewJeans × About group NewJeans NewJeans is a five-member girl group known for their fresh Y2K-inspired style, smooth vocals, and viral hits. Tap again to view profile → Close

NMIXX × NMIXX About group NMIXX NMIXX is a South Korean girl group under JYP Entertainment. The group consists of Lily, Haewon, Sullyoon, Bae, Jiwoo, and Kyujin and debuted in 2022. Tap again to view profile → Close

RESCENE × RESCENE About group RESCENE RESCENE (리센느) is a five-member girl group under THE MUZE Entertainment consisting of WONI, LIV, MINAMI, MAY, and ZENA. The group debuted on March 26, 2024 with their first single album Re:Scene. Tap again to view profile → Close

RIIZE × RIIZE About group RIIZE RIIZE (라이즈) is a South Korean boy group under SM Entertainment. The group is known for its “emotional pop” musical identity and has built a strong international fandom known as BRIIZE. Tap again to view profile → Close

Rosé × Artist bio Rosé Real name: Park Chae-youngPosition: Main Vocalist, Lead DancerNationality: Korean-New ZealanderBirthday: 1997-02-11Birthplace: Auckland, New Zealand Main vocalist of BLACKPINK known for her unique tone. Rose is often described as warm, introspective, and a little shy at first, with a quirky sense of humor and very emotional way of expressing herself through music. Tap again to view profile → Close

SEVENTEEN × About group SEVENTEEN SEVENTEEN is a self-producing boy group with 13 members, divided into the 3 main sub-units, hip-hop, vocal, and performance, to form 1 team. They are known for intricate choreography, impressive synchronisation and sophisticated song writing. Tap again to view profile → Close

Stray Kids × About group Stray Kids Stray Kids is an eight-member self-producing boy group known for intense performances, experimental sound, and powerful rap lines. Tap again to view profile → Close

TWICE × TWICE About group TWICE TWICE is a nine-member girl group famous for bright concepts, addictive choruses, and a huge discography of K-pop hits. Tap again to view profile → Close

TWS

TXT

Yena

New Artist of the Year

ALPHA DRIVE ONE × About group ALPHA DRIVE ONE ALPHA DRIVE ONE (알파드라이브원), also known as ALD1, is an eight-member boy group under WAKEONE. The group consists of LEO, JUNSEO, ARNO, GEONWOO, SANGWON, XINLONG, ANXIN, and SANGHYEON. Formed through BOYS II PLANET, ALPHA DRIVE ONE officially debuted on January 12, 2026 with the mini album EUPHORIA. The group name represents the goal of becoming the best (ALPHA), the passion and momentum to move forward (DRIVE), and unity as one team (ONE). Tap again to view profile → Close

HADES

LNGSHOT

SYSTEM SEOUL

TUIDE

Best Solo – Female

BOL4

Jennie

Taeyeon

Yena

Best Solo – Male

BIG Naughty

Lee Changsub

Lim Young Woong

SoonSoonHee (Jihwan)

Young K

Best Group – Female

KiiiKiii

Best Group – Male

BOYNEXTDOOR

BTS

CORTIS

NCT WISH

PLAVE

Best OST

Kim Min Seok (MeloMance) – “Love Language” (“Can This Love Be Translated?” OST)

PLAVE – “Love Is Enough (Original)” (“Sold Out On You” OST)

Sung Si Kyung – “Anytime anyhow” (“Surely Tomorrow” OST)

TRIANGLE – “Love is” (“Wild Sing” OST)

WOODZ × Artist bio WOODZ Real name: Cho Seung-younPosition: Soloist, Singer-Songwriter, Rapper, ProducerNationality: South KoreanBirthday: 1996-08-05Birthplace: South Korea WOODZ is a South Korean singer-songwriter, rapper, and producer known for his versatility across pop, R&B, hip-hop, rock, and alternative music. WOODZ has described himself as emotionally sensitive and as someone whose feelings can move back and forth quickly. Over time, he has spoken about learning to accept stress, become more balanced, and avoid defining himself too rigidly. He values emotional exchange and frequently channels changing emotions into his music. Tap again to view profile → Close – “EVERGLOW” (“Perfect Crown” OST)

Best Pop Artist

Ariana Grande

Bruno Mars

Charlie Puth

KATSEYE × KATSEYE About group KATSEYE KATSEYE is a global girl group formed through HYBE x Geffen's "The Debut: Dream Academy" project. The group debuted in 2024 and is known for a modern pop sound, sharp performance style, and multilingual global-member lineup. Tap again to view profile → Close

Tame Impala

TrackZero Choice

DeVita – “Tricyle”

Electron Sheep – “Kids Return”

Goat’s Horn, Dog’s Heart – “Goat’s Horn, Dog’s Heart”

Haepa – “Model Citizen”

Kangziwon – “lemon”

NokeNok – “Summer Break”

Silica Gel – “BIG VOID”

SUMIN – “+82”

wave to earth – “courage”

youra – “BATHTUB”

The Melon Music Awards 2026 will take place on November 14 and 15 at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul. Check out the lineup here!

Related groups

⭐Hearts2Hearts

Hearts2Hearts (하츠투하츠) is an 8-member girl group under SM Entertainment, debuting in 2025 with a fresh, emotional pop sound and a global focus.

Members

Ian

⭐SEVENTEEN

SEVENTEEN is a self-producing boy group with 13 members, divided into the 3 main sub-units, hip-hop, vocal, and performance, to form 1 team. They are known for intricate choreography, impressive synchronisation and sophisticated song writing.

Members

Jun

⭐BOYNEXTDOOR

BOYNEXTDOOR is a six-member South Korean boy group under KOZ Entertainment. The group consists of SUNGHO, RIWOO, JAEHYUN, TAESAN, LEEHAN, and WOONHAK. They officially debuted on May 30, 2023. The group's name reflects the idea of approachable "boys next door," with music centered on relatable stories, everyday experiences, and the emotions of youth. Their official fandom name is ONEDOOR.

Members

⭐aespa

aespa is a South Korean girl group formed by SM Entertainment, consisting of Karina, Giselle, Winter, and Ningning. Since their debut in 2020, aespa has gained international recognition for their innovative concept that combines music, storytelling, and virtual avatars, creating a unique identity within the K-pop industry. Known for their powerful vocals, dynamic performances, and futuristic sound, the group has consistently topped charts and attracted a growing global fanbase. With hit songs such as “Black Mamba,” “Next Level,” “Savage,” “Spicy,” and “Supernova,” aespa has established itself as one of the leading fourth-generation K-pop groups. Their distinctive blend of pop, electronic, and experimental music, combined with strong visual concepts and world tours, continues to expand their influence and popularity among fans around the world.

Members

⭐BIGBANG

BIGBANG is a South Korean boy group that debuted in 2006. Known for major influence on modern K-pop, the group is widely associated with hits across multiple eras and a strong global fanbase. The group is commonly treated as currently active with G-DRAGON, Taeyang, and Daesung.

Members

Daesung

Taeyang

G-DRAGON

⭐NewJeans

NewJeans is a five-member girl group known for their fresh Y2K-inspired style, smooth vocals, and viral hits.

Members

⭐EXO

EXO is a globally influential K-pop boy group known for powerful vocals, polished performances, and a strong legacy in modern K-pop. Since debuting in 2012, EXO has shaped the sound and visuals of an entire generation.

Members

Kai

Lay

⭐NCT

NCT is a South Korean boy group formed by SM Entertainment with a unique multi-unit concept. There are 6 units within NCT; NCT 127, NCT DREAM, NCT WISH, WayV, NCT U, NCT DOJAEJUNG.

Members

Yushi

Ten

Ryo

Kun

⭐BTS

BTS (방탄소년단) is a South Korean K-pop group formed by BigHit Music and debuted on June 13, 2013. The group consists of seven members: RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Known for their powerful performances, meaningful lyrics, and strong connection with fans, BTS has become one of the most successful and influential music groups in the world. Their music explores themes such as youth, self-discovery, mental health, love, and personal growth, helping them build a dedicated global fanbase known as ARMY. Since their debut, BTS has achieved record-breaking success across the global music industry with hit songs such as “Dynamite,” “Butter,” “Spring Day,” “Boy With Luv,” and “Fake Love.” The group has earned numerous awards, topped charts in multiple countries, sold millions of albums, and helped introduce K-pop to a broader international audience. Through their artistry, cultural impact, and worldwide influence, BTS continues to inspire fans and shape the future of global pop music.

Members

Jin

⭐IVE

IVE is a six-member girl group recognized for chic visuals, confident concepts, and strong chart performance.

Members

Rei

Liz

⭐BLACKPINK

BLACKPINK is one of the most influential K-pop girl groups in the world, known for their powerful performances, global chart success, and distinctive blend of pop, hip-hop, EDM, and rap. Formed by YG Entertainment, the group consists of Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa. Since their debut in 2016, BLACKPINK has achieved numerous milestones, including record-breaking music videos, sold-out world tours, and collaborations with internationally recognized artists. With a dedicated global fanbase known as BLINK, BLACKPINK continues to shape the modern K-pop industry through their music, fashion influence, and worldwide cultural impact. The group has earned recognition for hit songs such as “DDU-DU DDU-DU,” “How You Like That,” “Pink Venom,” and “Shut Down,” while establishing themselves as one of the most successful and recognizable Korean music acts of all time!

Members

⭐NMIXX

NMIXX is a South Korean girl group under JYP Entertainment. The group consists of Lily, Haewon, Sullyoon, Bae, Jiwoo, and Kyujin and debuted in 2022.

Members

BAE

⭐Stray Kids

Stray Kids is an eight-member self-producing boy group known for intense performances, experimental sound, and powerful rap lines.

Members

Bang Chan

Changbin

Hyunjin

I.N

Han

Lee Know

Felix

Seungmin

⭐BABYMONSTER

BABYMONSTER is a multinational girl group under YG Entertainment. They debuted as a full ensemble on April 1, 2024.

Members

Asa

⭐TWICE

TWICE is a nine-member girl group famous for bright concepts, addictive choruses, and a huge discography of K-pop hits.

Members

⭐LE SSERAFIM

LE SSERAFIM is a five-member multinational girl group under SOURCE MUSIC, consisting of SAKURA, KIM CHAEWON, HUH YUNJIN, KAZUHA and HONG EUNCHAE. The group debuted on May 2, 2022. Their name is an anagram of "I'M FEARLESS" and represents moving forward fearlessly without being swayed by the expectations of the world.

Members

⭐RESCENE

RESCENE (리센느) is a five-member girl group under THE MUZE Entertainment consisting of WONI, LIV, MINAMI, MAY, and ZENA. The group debuted on March 26, 2024 with their first single album Re:Scene.

Members

LIV

⭐RIIZE

RIIZE (라이즈) is a South Korean boy group under SM Entertainment. The group is known for its “emotional pop” musical identity and has built a strong international fandom known as BRIIZE.

Members

ALPHA DRIVE ONE (알파드라이브원), also known as ALD1, is an eight-member boy group under WAKEONE. The group consists of LEO, JUNSEO, ARNO, GEONWOO, SANGWON, XINLONG, ANXIN, and SANGHYEON. Formed through BOYS II PLANET, ALPHA DRIVE ONE officially debuted on January 12, 2026 with the mini album EUPHORIA. The group name represents the goal of becoming the best (ALPHA), the passion and momentum to move forward (DRIVE), and unity as one team (ONE).

Members

LEO

⭐ENHYPEN

ENHYPEN is a six member boy group formed through I-LAND, known for powerful performances, storytelling concepts, and global popularity.

Members

Jay

⭐ILLIT

ILLIT (아일릿) is a five-member girl group under BELIFT LAB consisting of YUNAH, MINJU, MOKA, WONHEE, and IROHA. The group officially debuted on March 25, 2024. The name ILLIT combines “I will” with “it,” representing the members' independent spirit and potential to become something unique.

Members

⭐KATSEYE

KATSEYE is a global girl group formed through HYBE x Geffen's "The Debut: Dream Academy" project. The group debuted in 2024 and is known for a modern pop sound, sharp performance style, and multilingual global-member lineup.

Members

⭐CORTIS

CORTIS is a five-member boy group under BIGHIT MUSIC consisting of MARTIN, JAMES, JUHOON, SEONGHYEON and KEONHO. The group debuted in 2025. The name CORTIS is derived from the phrase "COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES" and represents thinking freely beyond conventional rules and standards. The members participate collaboratively in music, choreography, performance and visual production.

Members