Korean Popular Music Awards) is an annual South Korean music awards show that honors both mainstream and underground musical artists from a variety of genres.

[1] Unlike other major South Korean music awards, which largely rely on record sales to determine winners, the Korean Music Awards distributes awards based on the recommendations of a panel of judges consisting of music critics, radio show producers, academics, and other professionals within the industry.

The first ceremony was held in 2004,[2] and is regarded as one of the most prestigious music awards in the country.

[3][4] The event currently has approximately 20 categories, including the Musician of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Rookie of the Year, and genre awards in pop, rock, modern rock, metal & hardcore, folk, dance & electronic, hip hop, R&B & soul, and jazz & crossover music.

Best Global Contemporary Album Includes both Competitive Awards as well as Popularity & Special Awards Musician of the Year, Album of the Year & Song of the Year