The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) nominations have ignited controversy among K-pop fans following the announcement on August 5.
Many expressed frustration over BLACKPINK’s Lisa being nominated in the “Best K-Pop” category for her track "Born Again", which features American and British artists Doja Cat and Raye and contains no Korean lyrics. Fans argued the all-English song should have been considered under “Best Pop” or “Best Collaboration”.
One fan remarked, “this is actually disrepectful and racist.” Another added, “They want to cage lisa in that k-pop catagory so bad… when song is in english and the artists are from Uk, Us and Thailand.”
Compounding the discontent was the absence of BTS members j-hope and Jin, despite their successful solo releases. Tracks like "Don’t Say You Love Me", "Running Wild", "Killin’ It Girl", and "Mona Lisa" were overlooked.
Fans highlighted their chart success and international appeal, questioning the selection process:
The backlash extended to other artists like LE SSERAFIM and BLACKPINK’s Jennie, whose viral choreography for Like Jennie was ignored in dance categories.
The full list of “Best K-Pop” nominees includes Lisa, Jennie, Jisoo, Jimin, aespa, Stray Kids, and Rosé, with Rosé earning multiple general category nominations alongside Bruno Mars for "APT".
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