Mark your calendars, K-pop fans — one of South Korea’s most prestigious music ceremonies is returning, and the excitement is already building fast. The 35th Seoul Music Awards has officially dropped its first artist lineup, and while more names are surely on the way, the initial reveal is already generating plenty of buzz across the global K-pop community.
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35th Seoul Music Awards — Everything You Need to Know
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Event | 35th Seoul Music Awards (SMA) |
| Date | June 20, 2026 |
| Venue | Inspire Arena, Incheon |
| Host | Leeteuk (SUPER JUNIOR) |
| First Lineup Revealed | May 7, 2026 |
| Confirmed Artists | Dayoung, BOYNEXTDOOR, KiiiKiii, CLOSE YOUR EYES, Dragon Pony |
The First Lineup Is Here — Who’s Confirmed?
On May 7, the 35th Seoul Music Awards revealed its first lineup of artists including Dayoung, BOYNEXTDOOR, KiiiKiii, CLOSE YOUR EYES, and Dragon Pony.
It’s a diverse mix of solo artists and groups that reflects the wide spectrum of what K-pop sounds like in 2026 — from rising fourth-generation acts to fresh faces making their mark. Here’s a quick look at who’s confirmed so far:
Dayoung — A fan favourite with a growing solo presence, Dayoung’s inclusion signals the awards are celebrating individual artistry alongside group acts.
BOYNEXTDOOR — One of the most talked-about boy groups of recent years, BOYNEXTDOOR has built a loyal fanbase rapidly with their distinct sound and authentic storytelling in their music.
KiiiKiii — An exciting newer act generating significant attention in the K-pop space, their performance at the SMA will be a moment to watch.
CLOSE YOUR EYES — Adding emotional depth to the lineup, this act brings a soulful dimension to what promises to be a dynamic night.
Dragon Pony — One of the more unique names in the lineup, Dragon Pony brings an unpredictable and fresh energy that keeps the ceremony from feeling formulaic.
Leeteuk Returns to Host — a Familiar and Beloved Face
It was previously announced that SUPER JUNIOR’s Leeteuk will be hosting the ceremony, which will take place on June 20 at the Inspire Arena in Incheon.
Leeteuk is one of K-pop’s most experienced and beloved MCs — a natural choice to anchor a night of this scale and prestige. His experience, wit, and deep connection to the K-pop world make him a perfect fit for the Seoul Music Awards stage.
The Seoul Music Awards is one of South Korea’s longest-running and most respected music ceremonies, having recognized excellence in Korean popular music since 1990. Reaching its 35th edition is a significant milestone that reflects just how deeply the ceremony is woven into the fabric of K-pop history.
This is only the first lineup announcement — more artists are expected to be revealed in the coming weeks as June 20 approaches. For the latest K-pop news, award show updates, and artist announcements, stay tuned to TechnoSports, your go-to hub for everything pop culture.
FAQs
Q: When and where is the 35th Seoul Music Awards taking place?
The 35th Seoul Music Awards will be held on June 20, 2026, at the Inspire Arena in Incheon, South Korea.
Q: Who are the first confirmed artists for the 35th Seoul Music Awards?
The first announced lineup includes Dayoung, BOYNEXTDOOR, KiiiKiii, CLOSE YOUR EYES, and Dragon Pony, with more artists expected to be revealed soon.
