K-pop band BTS celebrates double success at 2019 Billboard Music Awards
- The group beats fellow nominee Maroon 5 to the top duo/group award and also wins the top social artist prize in Las Vegas, ahead of its extended world tour on Saturday
K-pop boy band BTS – which kicks off its extended world tour in the United States this weekend – claimed two prizes at Wednesday’s 2019 Billboard Music Awards.
The seven-member band won the top duo/group award – beating fellow nominees Dan + Shay, Imagine Dragons, Maroon 5 and Panic! At The Disco – at the annual ceremony held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
The group also won the top social artist for the third consecutive year.
BTS’ double success this year means it has become the first Korean act to win more than one honour at the ceremony.
Called onto the stage to receive the top duo/group award, amid the thunderous cheers of fans, RM, the leader of the group that formed in 2013, first thanked the band's fan community, which is known as “ARMY”.
"[We] still can't believe we are here on this stage,” he said, his voice full of emotion.
“It was only possible because of the little things we shared together, the BTS and ARMY power right?”
“We have still the same voice from years ago, still have the same dream ... and thoughts. Let's keep dreaming the best things together.”