(ANN/THE KOREA HERALD) – K-pop sensation BTS claimed artist of the year at the 52nd American Music Awards on Monday, marking the group’s second win in the ceremony’s top category.

The award comes after the group reunited earlier this year following the completion of all seven members’ mandatory military service and the release of its fifth studio album, Arirang.

BTS beat fellow nominees including Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars, Bad Bunny and Lady Gaga, reinforcing the group’s global popularity.

The win follows BTS’ first artist of the year triumph at the American Music Awards in 2021, when the group also competed against Swift in the same category.

Released in March, Arirang achieved strong commercial success, with lead single Swim gaining widespread popularity worldwide. The song topped the Billboard Global Excl. US chart for the sixth time this year and ranked second on Billboard’s Global 200 chart.

The album also placed second on Spotify’s Weekly Top Album Global chart, while Swim ranked fourth on the platform’s Weekly Top Song Global chart.

Fans at the awards ceremony chanted “BTS! BTS!” as the group took to the stage to accept the award.

“Armys, we did it once again,” member RM said during the acceptance speech. “It’s an honour to receive this precious award after everyone completed their military service.”

Member J-Hope thanked fans for their support of the new album, while Jimin expressed appreciation to fans attending the group’s ongoing world tour.

The American Music Awards nominees are determined through fan engagement metrics including streaming, album sales, radio airplay and tour revenue.

BTS also secured wins in other categories, including best male K-pop artist and song of the summer for Swim.

The group is scheduled to continue its tour with concerts in Las Vegas this week before returning to Busan in June for performances marking its 13th debut anniversary.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin