The much-anticipated Melon Music Awards (MMA) 2023 unfolded on December 2 at the INSPIRE Arena in Incheon, hosted by Korea’s leading music platform, Melon. The ceremony showcased the industry’s crème de la crème, with standout performances and a dazzling array of accolades for artists across various categories.
BTS’ Jungkook becomes most awarded soloist at MMA 2023
On Saturday, December 2, 2023, Jungkook, also known as the “Golden” singer, etched his name in the annals of music history by winning four coveted awards. His triumphs encompassed diverse categories, including Best Male Solo, Millions Top 10, Top 10 (Bonsang) for albums surpassing one million streams within 24 hours of release, and the Hot Trend Award.
Jungkook’s success has reverberated across the globe, sparking celebrations among his dedicated fan base. On X, a fan expressed, “Jungkook secured four awards at this year’s MMA. He stands as the most-awarded soloist at MMA 2023. Truly a main pop boy!” This sentiment reflects the widespread admiration and support the artist enjoys from his international audience.
BTS Collective Success
Notably, BTS, the globally acclaimed group to which Jungkook belongs, also clinched prestigious accolades at the Melon Music Awards. Their triumphs included ‘Top 10 (Bonsang)’ and the ‘Kakaobank Favorite Artist’ award, further solidifying their influence and popularity in the music world.
Top Honors
NewJeans, the sensational girl group, emerged as the night’s biggest winners, clinching two coveted Daesangs—Artist of the Year and Best Song of the Year for their chart-topping hit “Ditto.” Their triumph extended to a total of five awards, encompassing Best Group (Female), Top 10 Artist, and Millions Top 10.
NCT DREAM, a force to be reckoned with, secured four awards, including the prestigious Daesang for Record of the Year. The group also triumphed in categories such as Best Group (Male), Top 10 Artist, and Millions Top 10.
IVE, building on their success from the previous year, claimed another Daesang by winning Album of the Year for their groundbreaking full-length album, “I’ve IVE.” The group’s stellar night included additional honors for Top 10 Artist and Millions Top 10.
Genre-Specific Accolades
Lim Jae Hyun’s “Heaven (2023)” from “It Was Spring” clinched the Best OST, honoring Ryan Jhun as the Best Songwriter. Han Sung Soo earned the Best Producer award, Silica Gel achieved the Best Music Style, Charlie Puth earned the title of Best Pop Artist, and imase received the J-Pop Favorite Artist accolade.
The Melon Music Awards 2023 celebrated the diversity and excellence within the Korean music industry, showcasing the talents that continue to shape the global music landscape. The night’s multiple Daesangs, genre-specific honors underscored the dynamic and evolving nature of K-pop and its influence on the world stage.