The countdown is on for one of the most anticipated K-pop events of the year — the 40th Golden Disc Awards 2026. This landmark edition will take place on January 10, 2026, at the Taipei Dome in Taiwan, marking the ceremony’s first-ever overseas venue for its main event. Fans worldwide are gearing up to witness an unforgettable night packed with music, star power, and global celebration.
This year’s Golden Disc Awards promises exciting changes, including expanded international streaming options, a refreshed awards format, and a glittering lineup of performers and presenters that underscores K-pop’s global reach.
Early Winners Announced
Even before the ceremony kicks off, the UPbit Popularity Award winners have already set the stage for fan excitement. BTS’s Jin clinched the Male Popularity Award after a close battle with ENHYPEN, while rookie girl group Hearts2Hearts took home the Female Popularity Award, maintaining their lead from the start of voting. Both will receive their trophies live on stage during the ceremony.
Hosts & Presenters
The event will be hosted by Sung Si-kyung and Mun Ka-young, renowned for their polished stage presence. They will guide audiences through show-stopping performances, heartfelt speeches, and the unveiling of the newly expanded Daesang categories.
The presenter lineup adds even more star appeal, with leading actors Song Joong-ki, Byeon Woo-seok, and Ahn Hyo-seop set to grace the stage. Taiwanese stars Jolin Tsai and Hsu Kuang-han will also present awards, reflecting the event’s pan‑Asian focus.
Performance Highlights
The 2026 lineup blends chart-topping icons with rising talent. Fans can look forward to electrifying stages from LE SSERAFIM, IVE, ENHYPEN, Stray Kids, ATEEZ, MONSTA X, and Jennie. These acts are expected to deliver high-energy performances showcasing their growth over the past year.
Emerging groups NCT WISH, ZEROBASEONE, BOYNEXTDOOR, TWS, izna, ALLDAY PROJECT, KiiiKiii, CORTIS, ZO ZAZZ, CLOSE YOUR EYES, and ARrC will also take the spotlight, adding fresh flavors to the night.
How to Watch Live
Fans in South Korea can stream the ceremony via NAVER or tune in to JTBC. Japanese audiences can enjoy coverage on ABEMA, a trusted platform for K-pop award shows.
For international viewers, the show will be available on PRIZM, offering multi-language subtitles, real-time fan chats, and smooth streaming across devices. Red carpet coverage begins at 5:00 PM KST, with the main ceremony starting at 6:30 PM KST — perfect for fans worldwide to join the celebration in real time.
The 40th Golden Disc Awards 2026 is shaping up to be a spectacular showcase of K-pop’s global influence, blending tradition, innovation, and star-studded entertainment.
Digital Song Division Bonsang (Main Award)
Album Division Bonsang (Main Award)
Rookie Artist of the Year
Exciting New Award Categories Ahead
Beyond the headline Bonsang and Rookie prizes, this year’s 40th Golden Disc Awards in Taipei will debut three Daesang honors for the first time ever—Album Daesang, Digital Song Daesang, and a brand‑new Artist Daesang. Additional accolades will cover genre‑specific achievements and special recognitions, with all winners revealed during the live ceremony.
