Rosé has become the first K-pop artist ever to win at the BRIT Awards. At the 2026 ceremony held on February 28 (local time) at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena, the BLACKPINK member took home International Song of the Year for her addictive collaboration “APT.” with Bruno Mars.
The BRIT Awards, established in 1977 and hosted by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), is the UK’s most authoritative music awards. Winners are chosen by more than 1,000 industry professionals, including broadcasters, label executives, and journalists.
With this victory, Rosé becomes the first and only K-pop artist to be nominated and win at the BRIT Awards, both as a BLACKPINK member and as a soloist. The ceremony aired in Korea during the early hours of March 1.
When her name was announced, the 29-year-old K-pop star was visibly emotional, saying, “Oh my God,” before stepping onto the stage.
During her speech, she said, “I am so grateful to receive such an incredible award in front of such talented and respected musicians.” She then gave a heartfelt shoutout to her collaborator, adding, “There are so many people I want to thank.”
Rosé added, “First, Bruno, thank you for being my biggest mentor and my closest friend. I love you so much.”
The “3am” singer thanked her BLACKPINK members and longtime producer TEDDY, saying she wanted to share her love and appreciation with them.
Released in October 2024 as a pre-release single from her first studio album “rosie,” “APT.” became a global sensation immediately. The track is inspired by a Korean drinking game known as the “apartment game.”
The song spent 45 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, the longest run ever for a K-pop track, and peaked at number three. In September 2025, it earned Rosé two trophies at the MTV Video Music Awards, including Song of the Year. The track also received Grammy nominations in major categories; however, did not win the coveted award.
The 2026 BRIT Awards, hosted by comedian Jack Whitehall, were also historic for being held in Manchester for the first time.
Meanwhile, Rosé’s group, BLACKPINK, dropped their album ‘Deadline’ on Friday.
