BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan), the global superstars who have become living legends in the music industry, have once again written a historic moment on a stage watched by the entire world. As if mocking the so-called “military hiatus,” their influence has proven to be far beyond imagination.
At the 2026 American Music Awards (AMAs), held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, BTS delivered an astonishing victory and created an unforgettable, emotional moment that brought the venue to a standstill.
1. First Full Group Appearance in 5 Years – Las Vegas Engulfed in Cheers
The biggest highlight of the 2026 AMAs was undoubtedly BTS’s return as a complete seven-member group. It had been five years since they last appeared on the AMA stage with all members together — since their historic win for Artist of the Year in 2021, becoming the first Korean and Asian artists to claim the top honor.
When host Queen Latifah introduced them and BTS stepped onto the stage, the arena erupted into deafening screams and cheers, momentarily paralyzing the entire venue. Throughout the night, they served as strong contenders, winners, and presenters, visually proving that BTS remains at the very center of the global music industry.
2. 12th AMA Trophy with “SWIM” from Their 5th Studio Album
BTS proudly took home the Song of the Summer award for “SWIM,” a track from their 5th studio album. This victory marks an unprecedented record: since their first AMA appearance in 2018, they have won at least one trophy every year for eight consecutive years.
With this latest win, BTS now boasts a total of 12 AMA trophies. Starting from Favorite Social Artist, they have steadily collected awards across categories such as Favorite Pop/Rock Duo or Group, Tour of the Year, and the prestigious Artist of the Year. Their eight-year journey has etched the name BTS deeply into pop music history, far beyond K-pop.
3. Honest Reflections That Touched the World: “The Agony of Making Music That Feels Most Like Us”
Behind the glamorous awards, the members’ sincere and heartfelt speeches deeply moved fans and attendees alike.
Leader RM, holding the trophy, shared: “While preparing for this comeback album, we felt a lot of pressure. We agonized intensely over what would be the music that feels most like us right now.” He honestly revealed the weight they carried, then added, “But the one thing we believed in throughout that process was that we must keep challenging ourselves and continue moving forward.” He expressed deep gratitude to ARMY.
V then took the microphone and personally thanked the Big Hit staff who had worked hard with them for years. Referencing the song title, he delivered a powerful message of comfort: “To everyone in the world who continues to swim through the rough seas of life without giving up, we send our love and support. So, everyone — don’t stop, keep swimming!”
His heartfelt English speech drew explosive applause from the audience.
In Conclusion
Even at the pinnacle of success, BTS continues to agonize over creating “music that feels most like us” and proves their vision time and again. They did not rest on past glories like being the first Asian act to win Artist of the Year. Instead, they returned to Las Vegas after five years and claimed the Song of the Summer title. Their journey clearly shows why they are irreplaceable global icons.
Just like their message to keep swimming together through the sea of life, we will continue to support and watch over BTS’s great musical journey ahead.
What did you think of BTS’s historic full-group return to the AMA stage after five years?
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