Rosé Wins Presidential Commendation at 2025 Korea Popular Culture Awards: First K-Pop Artist to Win MTV VMA Song of the Year
BLACKPINK's Rosé has been honored with South Korea's Presidential Commendation at the 16th Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards, held October 23, 2025, at the National Theater of Korea in Seoul.
The government award recognizes Rosé's unprecedented global impact through her viral hit "APT." featuring Bruno Mars and her debut solo album "rosie," both of which shattered records and elevated Korean pop culture on the world stage.
Historic MTV VMA Win Powers Recognition
Rosé made history in September 2025 when "APT." won Song of the Year at the MTV Video Music Awards-making her the first K-pop artist ever to claim the category. The achievement was a milestone moment for Korean music, as BTS's "Dynamite" had been nominated in 2021 but didn't win.
During her acceptance speech, Rosé dedicated the trophy to her 16-year-old self and thanked Bruno Mars, whom she called her "absolute idol and incredible teacher."
"APT." Dominates Global Charts
Released in October 2024, "APT." topped the Billboard Global 200 for 12 weeks and ruled the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart for 19 weeks-the longest reign in that chart's history, surpassing even Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You."
The track peaked at number two on the UK Official Singles Chart and reached number eight on the Billboard Hot 100, making Rosé the first female K-pop solo artist to crack the U.S. top ten.
Solo Album Breaks Records
Rosé's first full-length album "rosie," released in December 2024, debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 with 102,000 equivalent units-the highest debut ever for a female K-pop soloist.
The album spent 27 consecutive weeks on the chart, breaking the previous record of 26 weeks held by both BLACKPINK's "THE ALBUM" and NewJeans' "Get Up." Rosé wrote and composed all tracks on the album, showcasing her evolution as a singer-songwriter.
Government's Highest Arts Honor
The Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards, hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, is South Korea's most prestigious government ceremony for entertainment achievements. Now in its 16th year since launching in 2010, the awards evaluate recipients based on career contributions, public influence, and social impact.
Rosé was unable to attend the ceremony in person due to BLACKPINK's "DEADLINE" world tour schedule in Thailand. A representative accepted the award on her behalf.
Other Notable Recipients
The 2025 ceremony honored 31 individuals across multiple categories. G-Dragon received the Jade Crown Cultural Medal, becoming the youngest musician ever to receive the honor. Other Presidential Commendation recipients included veteran groups TVXQ and SEVENTEEN, along with actors Lee Min-ho, Ju Ji-hoon, and Kim Tae-ri.
Rosé's recognition reflects the Korean government's acknowledgment of K-pop artists as cultural ambassadors who significantly contribute to the nation's global soft power and cultural influence.
The singer continues touring with BLACKPINK while maintaining her solo career momentum. She was also named to Time magazine's Time 100 list in April 2025 as one of the year's most influential people.
