BTS performed a pre-taped rendition of the song “Hooligan” at the 52nd Annual American Music Awards on May 25, 2026 [2].
The appearance marks the first time the seven-member South Korean pop group has appeared on an awards show in four years [1]. This return to primetime television signals a significant moment for the group's public presence following a prolonged hiatus from such events [3].
The performance was not captured live during the ceremony. Instead, the group filmed the segment during a tour stop in Las Vegas [4]. The footage was then broadcast live on CBS and streamed via Paramount+ as part of the awards programming [5].
BTS is known for its global influence and massive fan base, which reacted with significant enthusiasm to the group's return to the awards stage [1]. The 52nd Annual American Music Awards served as the platform for this high-profile comeback, utilizing the pre-recorded Las Vegas footage to integrate the group into the televised event [4].
By choosing a pre-taped performance, the group was able to maintain the production quality of their tour while meeting the broadcast requirements of the network [5]. This strategic move allowed the group to reappear in the U.S. spotlight without the logistical constraints of a live broadcast appearance [1].
“First awards-show appearance in four years”
The return of BTS to a major US awards platform after a four-year gap suggests a strategic reentry into the American primetime market. By utilizing pre-taped content from their Las Vegas tour, the group balanced the demands of a global touring schedule with the promotional necessity of a high-visibility appearance at the AMAs.
