At the 35th Golden Disc Awards, BTS once again demonstrated their dominance and unwavering popularity in the music industry by sweeping multiple major awards, making it a historic night for the global superstars. Held in January 2021, the prestigious event celebrated musical excellence in both digital releases and physical albums. BTS, who had been nominated for several categories, did not just participate, they won every single award they were nominated for. Their triumph at the 35th Golden Disc Awards solidified their legendary status and marked yet another milestone in their extraordinary journey.
Among the accolades BTS took home were: Album of the Year for Map of the Soul: 7, Best Digital Song for Dynamite, Best Album, again for Map of the Soul: 7, and the Most Popular Artist Award, which was a fan-voted category. Each of these awards reflected not only the group’s incredible musical achievements but also the powerful, unwavering support of their global fanbase, ARMY.
Perhaps the most prestigious of the evening, Album of the Year was awarded to Map of the Soul: 7, an album that had captivated millions with its introspective themes, genre-spanning tracks, and stunning production. Released in February 2020, Map of the Soul: 7 was a reflective and emotional work, showcasing the band’s growth over the seven years since their debut. With songs like “Black Swan,” “ON,” and “We Are Bulletproof: the Eternal,” BTS delved into topics such as identity, purpose, fear, and self-acceptance. Critics praised the album for its ambition and cohesion, and fans connected deeply with its sincerity. Winning Album of the Year was a recognition not just of sales and popularity, but of the album’s artistic significance and impact.
The Best Digital Song award went to “Dynamite,” BTS’s first fully English single, which took the world by storm after its release in August 2020. The disco-pop anthem debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remained a chart-topping hit for weeks across various international platforms. It broke multiple streaming records and garnered BTS their first Grammy nomination. “Dynamite” was not just a song, it was a cultural moment. Its uplifting message, energetic vibe, and bright visuals brought joy to millions during a particularly difficult time. The award recognized not only its massive digital success but also the hope and positivity it spread across the globe.
In addition to winning those two major categories, BTS also received the Best Album award for Map of the Soul: 7, making it a double win for the record. The dual recognition underlined the album’s exceptional quality and impact in both critical and commercial spheres. It proved that BTS is not just a group capable of breaking records, but also artists who pour deep thought, emotion, and craftsmanship into their music. This double win was symbolic, it celebrated both the artistic depth and the overwhelming global support that BTS commands.
Perhaps the most touching moment came with BTS winning the Most Popular Artist award, a fan-voted honor that gathered over 2 million votes. The passion and commitment of the ARMY were once again on full display, demonstrating how deeply BTS resonates with fans worldwide. The emotional connection between BTS and their fans is unique, forged through years of transparency, honesty, and shared growth. Every win for BTS feels like a win for ARMY too, and this award was a perfect example of that unbreakable bond.
But beyond just winning awards, BTS also made history at the 35th Golden Disc Awards. They became the first artist in the award show’s history to win both a Digital Bonsang and an Album Bonsang in the same year for four consecutive years (2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020). This remarkable achievement is a testament to their consistent excellence across both digital platforms and physical album sales. It also speaks to the balance BTS has struck between being an innovative force in the digital age and maintaining the traditional strength of album artistry.
Such a record-setting streak has never been accomplished before at the Golden Disc Awards, underscoring the unparalleled impact BTS has had on the industry. Their ability to consistently deliver high-quality content, year after year, is a reflection of their dedication, hard work, and creativity. Despite their global superstardom, BTS remains grounded, often attributing their success to their fans and their team. Their humility in the face of such massive accomplishments only adds to their appeal.
The significance of these wins also lies in the broader picture of BTS’s journey. From humble beginnings with a small label to becoming the most awarded Korean act in history, their rise has been nothing short of phenomenal. Each award they won at the 35th Golden Disc Awards served as a chapter in their story, a story of perseverance, innovation, and unyielding love for music.
Map of the Soul: 7 marked a turning point in BTS’s discography. It was not only a celebration of their past seven years but also an exploration of their individual and collective identities. The album was deeply personal, blending autobiographical storytelling with universal themes. Its win signified that meaningful, reflective music could still top charts and win major awards.
Likewise, Dynamite represented a new frontier. It marked their transition into fully global territory, reaching audiences who had never listened to Korean music before. Its upbeat and feel-good energy became an anthem of resilience. Winning the Best Digital Song for it confirmed that BTS’s influence transcended language, geography, and cultural boundaries.
The Most Popular Artist Award win was perhaps the most heartfelt. With over 2 million fan votes, it wasn’t just a measure of popularity, it was a love letter from ARMY to BTS. In return, BTS has often stated that their fans are their biggest inspiration, and each win is shared with them. This mutual respect and admiration between artist and fan are at the heart of BTS’s global success.
The 35th Golden Disc Awards will be remembered as one of the most defining moments in BTS’s career. Not just for the awards themselves, but for what those awards represented: a celebration of excellence, a recognition of artistry, and a powerful reminder of the unbreakable bond between BTS and ARMY. From record-breaking digital success to album dominance and unmatched fan support, BTS proved that they are not only kings of K-pop but a global cultural force unlike any the world has seen before.
In the years to come, these wins will be looked back on as not just career highlights, but as milestones in a legacy that continues to grow. BTS’s journey is still unfolding, and if the 35th Golden Disc Awards are any indication, their future holds even greater achievements, deeper artistry, and more history waiting to be made.
ALBUM OF THE YEAR – Map Of The Soul: 7 (Daesang)
BEST ALBUM – Map Of The Soul: 7 (Bonsang)
MOST POPULAR ARTIST
BEST DIGITAL SONG – Dynamite (Bonsang)
Discover more from borahae bulletin
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
borahae bulletin 