The 2025 Golden Disc Awards (GDA) have marked a significant event, honoring the remarkable achievements within Korean pop culture over the preceding year. Aespa stood out as one of the evening’s most prominent winners, securing the esteemed Grand Prize, or Daesang, for their popular track “Supernova.” This achievement highlights the group’s growing prominence and their sustained impact on the K-pop industry.
The 2025 Golden Disc Awards: A Celebration of K-Pop Excellence
Held on January 4, 2025, at the Mizuo PayPay Dome in Fukuoka, Japan, the Golden Disc Awards showcased some of the most prominent figures in the K-pop industry. Although the event was originally planned for a live broadcast, it faced delays due to unexpected circumstances, including a national mourning period following the tragic Jeju Air plane crash. Nevertheless, fans were able to enjoy a pre-recorded version of the ceremony, which was subsequently aired on January 6, 2025.
The event featured a trio of beloved South Korean hosts: Cha Eunwoo and Moon Ga Young, stars of the popular drama True Beauty, alongside the esteemed entertainer Sung Si Kyung. Together, they led the audience through an evening filled with captivating performances, heartfelt speeches, and poignant moments.
Aespa’s Big Win: ‘Supernova’ Takes Home the Daesang
The evening’s most significant moment was undoubtedly aespa’s triumph in the Digital Song Division, where they secured the prestigious Daesang (Song of the Year) for their hit track “Supernova.” This accomplishment represents yet another milestone in the group’s already remarkable career, reinforcing their status as one of the leading K-pop groups of the year.
“Supernova” enchanted listeners with its groundbreaking sound, infectious melody, and avant-garde visuals. The track, which fuses electronic pop with K-pop elements, resonated profoundly with audiences both in South Korea and around the globe. It is hardly surprising that aespa was awarded the Daesang, given their consistent efforts to redefine the possibilities of K-pop in recent years. Their victory serves as a testament to their diligence and commitment to their artistry.
Alongside aespa’s success, the evening also celebrated several other distinguished winners across various categories. These honors illustrate the dynamic evolution of the Korean music industry, where both established and emerging talents are making significant impacts.
Key Winners of the Day 1 Golden Disc Awards
The winners of Day 1 of the 2025 Golden Disc Awards showcased a diverse array of categories, celebrating both newcomers and seasoned artists. Below is an overview of some of the most significant achievements.
Rookie of the Year
The Rookie of the Year award was jointly awarded to two remarkable acts: ILLIT and TWS. Both groups made notable contributions in 2024, showcasing their innovative sounds and captivating performances. This acknowledgment of these newcomers underscores the emergence of rising talents in the K-pop industry who are already making a significant mark.
Best Group Award: LE SSERAFIM
The prestigious Best Group Award was awarded to the exceptionally talented girl group LE SSERAFIM. Renowned for their dynamic performances and captivating stage presence, LE SSERAFIM has significantly impacted the industry with their infectious songs and distinctive concept. Their victory at the Golden Disc Awards solidifies their status as one of the leading girl groups in the K-pop genre.
Best Digital Song (Bonsang)
The Best Digital Song award, known as Bonsang, was awarded to a varied selection of songs that characterized the previous year. The recipients included:
- “Supernova” by aespa
- “Sticky” by KISS OF LIFE
- “Welcome to the Show” by DAY6
- “Magnetic” by ILLIT
- “Plot Twist” by TWS
- “Fate” by (G)I-DLE
- “How Sweet” by NewJeans
- “Bam, Yang Gang” by BIBI
- “Love Wins All” by IU
- “To. X” by Taeyeon
- “HEYA” by IVE
The tracks showcased here exemplify the varied sounds and genres that have prevailed in the K-pop charts throughout 2024. From aespa’s avant-garde “Supernova” to IVE’s infectious “HEYA,” each song serves as a reflection of the industry’s innovation and creativity.
Best Band: DAY6
The prestigious award for Best Band was awarded to the renowned rock group DAY6. Celebrated for their genuine musical style and poignant lyrics, DAY6 has established themselves as a cherished entity within the K-pop scene. Their victory is truly deserved, as they consistently showcase their musical prowess and deliver a steady stream of exceptional music.
Most Popular Artist – Female: LE SSERAFIM
LE SSERAFIM was also honored with the award for Most Popular Female Artist, a category that recognizes those artists who have endeared themselves to fans. Their compelling performances and relatable music have established them as favorites among audiences in Korea and around the world.
Most Popular Artist – Male: PLAVE
In the male category, PLAVE has been awarded the title of Most Popular Artist, signifying yet another achievement for this gifted performer. With his powerful vocal skills and heartfelt performances, PLAVE has established himself as one of the most prominent figures in the K-pop industry.
Next Generation: KISS OF LIFE
The Next Generation award, recognizing emerging talent in the arts, has been presented to the exceptional group KISS OF LIFE. Their distinctive fusion of musical genres and dynamic performances have rapidly attracted a loyal following, indicating a promising future for them in the K-pop industry.
Cosmopolitan Artist: NewJeans
NewJeans, recognized for their groundbreaking music and fashion-forward approach, has been awarded the Cosmopolitan Artist accolade. This recognition highlights their capacity to connect with audiences worldwide, solidifying their position as one of the most impactful groups in the K-pop industry in 2024.
Song of the Year (DAESANG): Aespa‘s “Supernova”
The previously stated Song of the Year award, also known as Daesang, was awarded to aespa for their chart-topping single “Supernova.” This accomplishment highlights the group’s remarkable talent in transcending the conventional limits of music and artistry. Through their innovative concept, engaging melodies, and impressive visuals, aespa consistently enchants audiences globally.
Performers of the Night
The inaugural day of the Golden Disc Awards showcased numerous prominent figures in K-pop, each presenting remarkable performances. The roster comprised:
- aespa
- DAY6
- (G)I-DLE
- ILLIT
- KISS OF LIFE
- BIBI
- Crush
- LE SSERAFIM
- NewJeans
- TWS
- Close Your Eyes
The various groups and artists presented their distinctive styles, transforming the evening into a celebration of the diversity within K-pop. From aespa’s energetic rendition of “Supernova” to DAY6’s sincere live band performance, the event highlighted the remarkable talent and commitment of the artists involved.
The Future of K-Pop
The 2025 Golden Disc Awards serve not only as a tribute to previous achievements but also as a glimpse into the future of K-pop. Emerging talents such as ILLIT, TWS, and KISS OF LIFE are on the rise, indicating that a new generation of stars is ready to make a substantial mark on the industry. As the global appeal of K-pop continues to rise, these awards offer a vital platform for artists to display their skills and receive acknowledgment for their dedication.
aespa’s triumph with “Supernova” highlights the ongoing innovation and creativity within K-pop. Their success at the Awards has paved the way for even greater achievements in the future.
Expert Editorial Comment
The 2025 Golden Disc Awards was yet another remarkable evening in the realm of K-pop, highlighted by aespa’s achievement in securing the prestigious Daesang for their popular track “Supernova.” In addition to aespa’s significant accolade, numerous other artists and groups were honored for their impactful contributions to the industry.
The event celebrated a variety of talents, including LE SSERAFIM, who won Best Group, and DAY6, recognized as Best Band. This occasion underlined the rich diversity and exceptional artistry that define K-pop as a global sensation. Looking ahead, it is evident that the Korean music landscape will continue to progress and engage audiences around the world, with emerging talents and established artists alike expanding the horizons of their craft.
2025 Golden Disc Awards: aespa Shines with ‘Supernova’ and Day 1 Highlights