RIIZE, ATEEZ, ITZY, MONSTA X, and more took home awards at the 2026 Korean Grand Music Awards Day 2

The second day of the 2026 Korean Grand Music Awards, held at Seoul's Gocheok Sky Dome, saw several K-Pop artists recognized. RIIZE won the Grand Performer (Daesang), ATEEZ received the Grand Record (Daesang), and KiiiKiii was awarded the Grand Honor's Choice (Daesang). Other notable winners included ITZY, MONSTA X, Billlie, NEXZ, and KISS OF LIFE.

Context

The Korean Grand Music Awards are a prestigious event in the South Korean music industry, celebrating excellence in various categories. This year's event took place at the Gocheok Sky Dome, a significant venue for major concerts and events. K-Pop has seen a surge in global popularity, with many artists gaining international followings and chart success.

Why it matters

The 2026 Korean Grand Music Awards highlight the achievements of K-Pop artists, reflecting the genre's global influence and popularity. Awards such as the Grand Performer and Grand Record recognize outstanding contributions to the music industry. These accolades can enhance the visibility and marketability of the winning artists both domestically and internationally.

Implications

The recognition of these artists may lead to increased collaboration opportunities both within South Korea and abroad. Winning prestigious awards can also elevate the profile of K-Pop as a whole, potentially attracting new fans and investors. Artists like RIIZE and ATEEZ may experience heightened media attention and promotional opportunities following their wins.

What to watch

In the coming weeks, the impact of these awards on the artists' careers will be closely observed. Fans and industry analysts will monitor how the recognition influences album sales, streaming numbers, and concert ticket demand. Additionally, the response from international markets may indicate the growing global reach of K-Pop.