BTS’s RM, also known by his real name Kim Namjoon, made a groundbreaking achievement at the 2025 American Music Awards by becoming the first K-pop artist to win the Favourite Artist title.
Although he couldn’t attend the event because of his ongoing military service, the award marked a major career highlight. This win also makes him the first K-pop artist to secure this recognition both as a solo performer and as a member of BTS.
To celebrate the moment, RM took to Instagram stories where he re-shared the official AMAs announcement with a short but heartfelt message: “Thank you @amas #ARMY” followed by a kissing emoji. He later posted a Yonhap News article and hinted at BTS’s upcoming return, writing, “It will be soon, seriously, soon.” Fans were quick to flood social media with love and excitement the moment the winners were announced.
Support poured in from all corners of the fandom, with fans calling him a true trailblazer. One user wrote, “RM walked so others could run—what a legend,” while another commented, “Congrats Joon!! Even the military can’t stop your shine. You’re unstoppable.” The energy online was electric, as ARMY celebrated this meaningful win for their leader.
Other contenders in the category included popular names like BLACKPINK’s Rosé, Jimin of BTS, ATEEZ, and Stray Kids. BTS’s official Instagram account also acknowledged the win, thanking fans with a post that read, “Thank you for your love and support. #BTSARMY” along with their iconic purple heart emoji. This moment adds to BTS’s long list of accolades, with the group previously winning Favourite Pop Duo or Group four years in a row until their hiatus in 2022. Since then, members have pursued solo projects, including RM’s well-received albums Indigo*l and Right Place, Wrong Person, and his pre-enlistment documentary. RM and fellow member V are expected to complete their serviceon June 10, 2025, followed shortly by Jungkook and Suga.