🎤 VMAs 2025 Nominations: K-pop Category Raises Eyebrows Among Global Fans
The VMAs 2025 nominations have officially been released, but rather than celebration, they’ve ignited a fierce debate—especially within the global K-pop community. The glaring absence of BTS members Jin and J-Hope from the nominees list has sparked a wave of frustration, while all four BLACKPINK members received individual nominations, fueling controversy over fairness and industry bias.
🌍 BLACKPINK Shines Bright: All Four Members Receive Solo VMAs 2025 Nominations
Under the Best K-Pop category, BLACKPINK has made history once again—this time, as all four members secured solo spots:
- “Like Jennie” by Jennie
- “Earthquake” by Jisoo
- “Born Again” by Lisa ft. Doja Cat and Raye
- “Toxic Till the End” by RosĂ©
Their nominations represent a remarkable achievement for the group and their individual efforts. However, this dominance didn’t come without its share of backlash from fans of other K-pop acts.
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⚠️ Where Are BTS Jin and J-Hope in the VMAs 2025 Nominations?
Only one BTS member, Jimin, was included in the K-pop category for his track “Who”. Notably absent are Jin, with his heartfelt ballad “Heart on the Window”, and J-Hope, with his introspective single “Don’t Say You Love Me”—both of which performed exceptionally on global charts.
Despite strong digital sales, global streaming, and fan support, neither track made it to the nominations list. This snub has left ARMYs both heartbroken and angry, raising serious questions about the VMAs’ selection criteria.
🔥 Fan Reactions: Outrage, Disappointment & Theories
As expected, social media exploded within minutes of the announcement. The hashtag #VMAs2025Snub quickly began trending on X (formerly Twitter), with fans sharing stats, comparisons, and emotional messages.
“Jin had better vocals, chart stats, and fan support than some of the nominees. Why was he excluded?!” – one fan posted.
“J-Hope reinvented himself with this song, and the industry still chooses to ignore him. Disrespectful.” – commented another.
ARMYs have also compared the streaming numbers of BTS’s missing tracks with those nominated, claiming that both Jin and J-Hope deserved a place in the lineup.
🤔 Is There Favoritism in the VMAs 2025 Nominations?
In our view, the VMAs 2025 nominations expose an uncomfortable trend—certain labels and artists appear to receive consistent recognition, while others, despite massive global success, are overlooked.
While BLACKPINK’s talent and success are undeniable, fans are questioning whether the selection committee is paying enough attention to actual metrics like chart performance and global impact, especially in the case of BTS’s excluded members.
🎶 What This Means for K-pop Representation at the VMAs
The Best K-pop category was created to celebrate the genre’s global reach, but repeated controversies like this are beginning to damage its credibility. By excluding impactful and critically acclaimed releases, the VMAs risk alienating a core fanbase that has been instrumental in boosting the event’s viewership over the past decade.
✍️ My Take on the VMAs 2025 Nominations
As someone who follows both BTS and BLACKPINK closely, it’s hard not to feel that the VMAs missed an opportunity to fairly represent K-pop’s biggest names. Jin and J-Hope both released powerful music that connected emotionally with fans worldwide. Their absence isn’t just a personal loss—it’s a loss for representation, artistry, and fairness.
In contrast, BLACKPINK’s domination is a testament to their strong branding and international appeal. But should one group have four nominations while others are left with none?
🔚 Final Thoughts: Time for Transparency in Award Shows
The VMAs 2025 nominations once again show how awards can reflect not just artistry, but politics and favoritism. Fans aren’t asking for their idols to win everything—they’re asking for fairness, recognition, and respect.
If the VMAs wish to keep the trust of global audiences, especially within passionate fanbases like ARMY, they must ensure transparency and balance in their nomination process.