ARMY Outraged as V (Kim Taehyung) Excluded from 34th Seoul Music Awards Nominations

On March 25, the 34th Seoul Music Awards announced its list of nominees, triggering widespread criticism from BTS fans after V (Kim Taehyung) was excluded despite being eligible. His fans, known as ARMY, quickly voiced their disappointment across platforms, pointing to the success of his solo work in 2024.

Global Chart Success Ignored

V’s songs, including “Fri(end)s” and “Winter Ahead” (a collaboration with Park Hyo Shin), achieved notable chart success on Billboard and iTunes. Released in March and November 2024 respectively, both tracks fall within the eligibility period of January 2024 to March 2025, making his absence even more perplexing to supporters.

Eligibility Criteria and Circle Chart Data

The Seoul Music Awards nomination process relies on performance metrics from Circle Chart, a major music ranking platform in South Korea. While other BTS members such as Jin, RM, Jimin, and Jungkook secured multiple nominations, V received none—despite strong solo performance and international acclaim.

Fan Reactions and Allegations Against HYBE

Many fans took to social media, accusing HYBE, BTS' management agency, of neglecting to adequately support and promote V’s solo releases. Claims of favoritism and a "deliberate disregard" for V’s work have emerged, with fans asserting that his contributions to BTS and his solo artistry deserve equal recognition.

Support for V Grows Amid Controversy

The hashtag “V DESERVES BETTER” has trended on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), as fans urge greater acknowledgment of his artistic achievements. Some expressed frustration at perceived mistreatment, calling on both the company and domestic fans to push for fair treatment of the artist.

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