▲ K-pop superband BTS is seen in this image provided by the 2026 VMA. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)

SEOUL, Sept. 29 (Yonhap) -- Culture Minister Choi Hwi-young congratulated BTS and BLACKPINK's Lisa on their wins at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), saying the awards reaffirmed K-pop's standing in the global popular music market.

In a message posted on social media Tuesday, Choi said, "The wins by BTS and Lisa have once again demonstrated K-pop's standing in the global popular music market," adding that the achievements belong to "not only the artists, but also everyone involved in planning, production and performances, as well as all the fans who love K-pop."

"The government will support efforts to broaden the base of popular music and foster healthy growth of the industry ecosystem so that these valuable achievements can continue," he said. "Once again, congratulations to BTS and Lisa on their wins, and I look forward to their future activities."

BTS won Song of the Year for "Swim," the lead track from its fifth studio album "Arirang," at the MTV VMAs held in Los Angeles on Sept. 27 (U.S. time). The group also won Best K-pop and Best Group, taking home three awards in total.

Lisa won Best Pop for "Dream," beating global stars including Ariana Grande and Taylor Swift. She became the first Asian solo artist to win the category.

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