K-POP Shows out In 2026 Grammy Nominations

By: Brionna Gillis

K-pop gets a chance to shine in the 2026 Grammy nominations. 

The Recording Academy announced the 2026 Grammy nominations early this month, with Kendrick Lamar leading the pack with nine nominations. Lady Gaga and producers Cirkut and Jack Antonoff followed close behind with seven nominations, while Bad Bunny, Leon Thomas, and Sabrina Carpenter each earned six. Several artists have also earned five including Doechii, Sza, Tyler the Creator, and many more, per People Magazine.  

“Overall, I’m not too upset over the nominations, although the one person that I would’ve wanted to get nominated, Ravyn Lenae, didn’t earn a nomination. I’m pleased with the ones that were, especially since some of them I enjoy,” said Gabrielle Walker, a senior English major. 

Among the many nominations, several K-pop artists, as well as one global girl group, scored big nods in top categories. What makes it even more special is that they’re all women. 

“I think it’s great. American pop music has been a bit repetitive and very sterile for a bit and instead of limiting themselves to an American market people are venturing out,” said Walker. 

Following its chart-topping film and music success earlier this year, “K-pop Demon Hunters" earned nominations for its hit song “Golden” in the song of the year and best pop duo/group performance categories. The song is performed by artists EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, the singing voices behind the film’s fictional K-pop group, HUNTR/X. 

BLACKPINK singer ROSE also earned nominations for song of the year and record of the year alongside Bruno Mars for their hit song”APT.” The duo are also nominated for best pop duo/group performance. Additionally, the LA-based global girl group KATSEYE, whose music and dance moves are influenced by K-pop superstars, earned nominations for best new artists and best pop duo/group performance. 

“I think it’s cool that K-pop artists are getting nominated because so many Americans listen to the genre and it shows that they are finally getting transportation,” said Nicole Huff, a third year political science major on the prelaw track. 

Any of these women could potentially make Grammys history if they take home the coveted Golden Gramophone Award, as no K-pop artist has ever won a Grammy before. Until this year, the only K-pop artist to have earned a Grammy nomination was BTS. 

The Grammy’s is set to take place in Los Angeles live from the Crypto.com Arena on Feb.1.