The 40th Golden Disc Awards marked a milestone moment in K-pop history, celebrating four decades of musical excellence with a grand ceremony held on January 10, 2026, at the Taipei Dome in Taiwan. Often referred to as the “Korean Grammys,” this landmark edition stood out not only for its scale and global attention but also for introducing a brand-new top honor that reflected the evolving landscape of the music industry.

Hosted by Sung Si-kyung and Moon Ga-young, the night brought together top idols, legendary artists, rising rookies, and celebrated actors under one roof. For the first time ever, the ceremony was held in Taiwan, highlighting the growing global reach of K-pop and its ever-expanding fanbase across Asia and beyond.

One of the biggest highlights of the evening was the introduction of the Artist of the Year Daesang, created especially for the 40th anniversary. Jennie of BLACKPINK made history as the first artist to receive this honor, solidifying her powerful influence as both a soloist and global icon. Her wins throughout the night reflected her strong digital performance, cultural impact, and worldwide popularity.

Stray Kids emerged as another major winner, taking home the Album of the Year Daesang for KARMA. The group’s win celebrated their consistent chart performance, dedicated fandom, and global touring success. Meanwhile, G-Dragon claimed the Digital Song of the Year Daesang with “HOME SWEET HOME,” marking a triumphant return that resonated strongly with fans and the industry alike.

Beyond the grand prizes, the awards showcased a wide spectrum of talent. MONSTA X was honored as Best Group, while multiple artists received Bonsang awards across digital and album categories, reflecting a diverse and competitive year in K-pop. Rising acts also had their moment, with rookie and next-generation awards highlighting the future of the industry.

The performance lineup featured a dynamic mix of established stars and newcomers, delivering powerful stages that blended nostalgia with fresh energy. Special anniversary segments paid tribute to influential figures from the past 40 years, making the event both a celebration of history and a look toward the future.

Overall, the 40th Golden Disc Awards stood as a defining chapter for K-pop, emphasizing the growing prominence of solo artists, the continued strength of global groups, and the genre’s unstoppable international influence. With historic wins, emotional speeches, and unforgettable performances, the night truly lived up to its legacy

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