Global K-pop sensation BTS made a highly anticipated return to the American Music Awards after four years, thrilling fans with a special performance of their hit track Hooligan at the star-studded ceremony held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
The seven-member group—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook—walked the red carpet before captivating audiences with a pre-recorded performance filmed during the Las Vegas leg of their ARIRANG World Tour on May 24.
Hosted by Queen Latifah, the awards ceremony marked BTS’ first appearance at a major award show since 2022. Although the performance was not live, fans enthusiastically welcomed the group’s return, especially after the members completed their mandatory military service in South Korea and reunited earlier this year.
The appearance highlighted a significant chapter in BTS’ journey. The group first made history at the American Music Awards in 2017 as the first Korean act to perform on the show, introducing K-pop to a broader American television audience and paving the way for greater global recognition of Korean music.
Following their reunion, BTS released their 10th studio album, Arirang, and announced a worldwide tour in support of the project. Speaking earlier about the tour, Jin revealed that the initial schedule was intended to be much smaller. However, the group ultimately expanded the tour to connect with more fans around the world after years away from the stage.
BTS also entered this year’s awards ceremony with nominations in major categories, including Artist of the Year, Song of the Summer and Best Male K-Pop Artist, reaffirming their enduring influence on the global music industry.
Despite the group’s record-breaking achievements and international popularity, RM remained characteristically humble when reflecting on BTS’ success, noting that they still view themselves as “a boy band from Korea” while expressing admiration for some of the world’s biggest music stars.
With their successful AMAs return and a massive world tour underway, BTS continues to demonstrate why they remain one of the most influential and beloved music groups in the world.
