#VMAs Best K-pop nominees:
Aespa – “Whiplash”
Jennie – “Like Jennie ”
Jimin – “Who”
Jisoo – “Earthquake”
Lisa ft. Doja Cat & Raye – “Born Again”
Stray Kids – “Chk Chk Boom”
Rosé – “Toxic Till the End”— Kpop Charts (@kchartsmaster) August 5, 2025
The nomination list quickly ignited discussions on social media. Fans overwhelmed X and Instagram with demands for the VMAs to share their judging criteria. They argued that Jin’s “The Astronaut” and J-Hope’s “On The Street,” featuring J. Cole, both achieved global chart success and critical acclaim. Many accused the awards of favoritism toward BLACKPINK, noting the group’s dominant presence in this year’s nominations.
then how come Jin and Jhope didn’t get nominated? @vmas b!tchass answer pic.twitter.com/V8DeEMpsl9
— Srija⁷ ⋆ (@Borakimtae) August 5, 2025
Some fans defended the nominations, stating that the VMAs often prioritize global name recognition over performance metrics. Others claimed this highlights how Western award shows undervalue BTS’s influence, especially now that the group is focusing on solo activities during their military service.
we all know the @vmas is rigged and paid for but the intentional snob to jin and jhope who both outsold many of the nominees for kpop is laughable to me.
— gianna 🍭🩵💛🩷 #RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR (@giannaannaig) August 5, 2025
vmas are starting to look incredibly fraudulent idk whats going on
— everslay⸆⸉ ♡ (@everslay13) August 7, 2025
As the debate continues, both ARMY and BLINK communities are trending hashtags, some in solidarity while others engage in heated fan wars. MTV has not released a statement addressing the controversy. With the ceremony just weeks away, the question remains: will this uproar lead the VMAs to explain their choices, or will fans be left with more questions than answers?
