In any field, the title “GOAT” – “Greatest of All Time” is considered the highest form of recognition, and it’s rarely granted without controversy. K-pop is no exception!
The GOAT of K-pop isn’t just about talent or popularity. It’s the combination of artistry, global impact, innovation, and cultural resonance. Many artists have been evaluated to see whether they truly deserve such a prestigious title.
However, there is only one clear standout candidate for this title – BTS. While many groups have made a lasting impact in K-pop history, very few have reached the level of global recognition and cultural influence that BTS has achieved.
Jimmy Fallon once referred to BTS as “The Beatles of this generation”, while Coldplay, the legendary British band, called BTS the “21st-century pop icons.” Even the 2022 Grammy Awards introduced the group with this nickname.
Halsey, who collaborated with BTS on “Boy With Luv”, also openly expressed, “No one has done what they have done. BTS isn’t just a famous кσяєαn group—they’re global legends.”
Not only have international stars recognized BTS as the GOAT of K-pop, but fellow K-pop artists have as well. Most recently, TWICE acknowledged BTS’s influence during their 10th anniversary interview with Forbes.
When asked who they believe is the greatest K-pop artist of all time, Jeongyeon hesitated to answer such a controversial question, but Tzuyu boldly shouted out BTS, crediting their role in spreading K-pop worldwide.
“There are so many K-pop artists who worked so hard so that K-pop can take the center stage. Many artists worked hard to contribute, and BTS played a big role in that”, she shared.
Tzuyu’s comment quickly went viral online, as the title “GOAT of K-pop” always draws attention. Many netizens agreed with her and praised her bravery for speaking her mind.
Meanwhile, ARMYs expressed deep appreciation for Tzuyu’s acknowledgment of BTS. They were proud to see BTS being recognized not just by fans, but also by fellow artists both domestically and internationally:
- Thank u queen for being brave and humble to talk about this I know so many idol cant do this cause of their ego
- Respect to Tzuyu for keeping it diplomatic because we all know without BTS, K-pop wouldn’t be on any global stage.
- Tzuyu always found speaking facts. Tzuyu the queen you are !
- I'm listening to these princesses album, they've always been talented and kind to BTS. Good job, and thank you Tzuyu!
- Actually, they’re just very down to earth & honest people. They give credit where credit is due, without any bitter arrogance. They are confident enough in their achievements not to steal others!
- i genuinely have so much respect for these girls because they’ve never been bitter about bts and they’ve always acknowledged their hard work and what they’ve done for the kpop industry
- loved how they always respected and acknowledged bts
- She’s literally one of the big figures in the industry and credited bts yet kpop stans in Qts think they know better
- this woman just never misses.. we love an educated, young, beautiful and talented artist like her
- Notice how talented women have no problem crediting BTS for paving the way in K-pop, unlike others who treat them like the Voldemort of the industry.
Aside from Tzuyu, many other K-pop artists have also referred to BTS as trailblazers who paved the way for the global expansion of the industry. Bang Chan (Stray Kids) once said, “BTS is the group that paved the way for us. What they’ve accomplished is soмєтнing everyone dreams of.”
Similarly, Yeonjun (TXT) has repeatedly expressed his admiration, saying, “You can’t help but see them as legends – they’re the reason I wanted to become an idol.” In addition, Taeyong (NCT), a prominent figure from SM Entertainment, acknowledged, “I deeply respect the path BTS has opened for the global rise of K-pop.”
G-Dragon – a member of BIGBANG and a K-pop icon of the previous generation – has also subtly expressed his respect for BTS, acknowledging them as the successors who have carried on and expanded the global influence of K-pop.
From breaking records on Billboard to staging legendary performances around the world, BTS continues to redefine the standard of what it means to be a K-pop group in the modern era with their depth of artistry and emotional connection with au∂ιєnces.
