「2026 KGMA」11/8(日) MUSIC DAYオフィシャルレポート到着

The 2026 Korea Grand Music Awards (KGMA) concluded its third annual ceremony with a grand celebration of K-pop and popular music on November 7 and 8 at Seoul's Gocheok Sky Dome. Spanning two days—dubbed ARTIST DAY and MUSIC DAY—this year’s KGMA showcased a lineup of top-tier artists performing live on an exclusive streaming partnership with Hulu.

A highlight of the event was the MUSIC DAY on November 8, hosted by actor Kim Jae-won and IVE's Liz. The day brought together acclaimed performers including ATEEZ, ITZY, RIIZE, NEXZ, MINHO of SHINee, and Hearts2Hearts, among others. Attendees and fans worldwide enjoyed a vivid display of music and choreography, reflecting the dynamic nature of today’s Korean music scene.

The ceremony opened with a vibrant red carpet where artists impressed in distinctive outfits, setting an enthusiastic tone. Debuting groups and soloists alike received warm welcomes, with ALPHA DRIVE ONE marking their 300th day since debut in sharp white suits and NEXZ presenting their signature denim and boots style. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as these acts prepared to take the stage.

Performance-wise, the event was notable for its diversity. Liz delivered an emotive cover of Taeyeon's "INVU," earning the Best O.S.T award, while ALPHA DRIVE ONE and TWS both secured newcomer awards, underscoring the growing impact of fresh talent within the industry. These groups demonstrated strong stage presence and versatility through sets that mixed intricate choreography and expressive vocals.

Established artists brought their own energy to the stage. MINHO of SHINee, a veteran figure in K-pop, performed tracks from his recent mini-album "Make it Hot," blending smooth vocals with precise dance moves that highlighted his enduring appeal. ITZY contributed a high-energy medley of their hits, reinforcing their global influence. Meanwhile, RIIZE captivated the audience with their "emotional pop" style, combining relatable lyrics and striking visuals.

NEXZ stood out by securing two awards including the Hulu Japan Popularity Award for the second consecutive year and the Best Global K-POP Star award. Their performances of "LOCO" and "SAUCIN'" demonstrated their expanding artistry and international reach, accompanied by dynamic choreography that engaged fans both live and online.

One of the event’s most talked-about moments came from WayV, an NCT subunit, who presented a gender-bending cover of f(x)'s "4 Walls," showcasing their adaptability and offering a fresh take on a classic hit. Their polished synchronization and atmospheric staging earned them notable applause.

The ceremony also featured a striking cover by AEN, a newly debuted group, of MONSTA X's "Love Killa." Their mature and sultry performance, observed by MONSTA X members Hyungwon and Juho, was met with approval, illustrating the continuing cycle of influence and homage in the K-pop community.

RIIZE received the 2026 Grand Performer award, with the group expressing gratitude toward their fanbase BRIIZE and industry collaborators. Their acknowledgment of teamwork and mutual support highlighted the interconnected nature of K-pop success.

The event’s highest accolade, the 2026 Grand Record award, was awarded to ATEEZ. The group expressed humility and dedication to ongoing artistic growth, closing the ceremony with an electrifying set featuring their hit "BAD" and latest track "DRIP." Their flawless integration of vocals, rap, and dance captivated the audience, solidifying their position at the forefront of the global K-pop movement.

From emerging artists to seasoned performers, the 2026 KGMA underscored the vibrancy and international momentum of Korean popular music. The event’s live streaming on Hulu and forthcoming on-demand availability with Japanese subtitles will extend its reach, enabling fans to revisit and celebrate the performances.

The success of KGMA as a hybrid live and digital experience reflects shifting trends in music consumption and fan engagement in the K-pop industry. The inclusion of exclusive streaming partnerships and global artist participation demonstrates how Korean music award shows are adapting to broaden accessibility while maintaining high production values.

The KGMA has rapidly established itself as a platform that both honors musical excellence and provides a launchpad for new talent, with this year’s event further consolidating its role in shaping the landscape of Korean popular music on an international scale.