And once again, BTS proves that when it comes to cultural impact, they’re not just in the game—they are the game. The group has officially been named the Most Influential Cultural Artists of 2025 by Sisa Journal, and fans could not be prouder. Honestly, were we expecting anyone else to top this list? Exactly.
This recognition isn’t just about music charts or streaming numbers—it’s about acknowledging how deeply BTS has shaped modern culture. From music and fashion to philanthropy and global diplomacy, BTS’s influence is so woven into everyday life that it’s practically impossible to separate the boys from the world they helped transform.
According to the report, the title reflects BTS’s ability to transcend boundaries, lead cultural conversations, and inspire change. And let’s face it—they’ve been doing that from day one. Remember when K-pop wasn’t taken seriously by the global industry? Then came BTS, who not only conquered the charts but also redefined what it means to be global artists. This isn’t influence, it’s a cultural shift with purple paint all over it.
Fans online celebrated the announcement with equal parts pride and sarcasm. Some pointed out that the award could basically be renamed “The BTS Award” at this point, since the group has consistently been recognized as Korea’s most powerful cultural icons year after year. Others joked that BTS being called “most influential” is like calling water “wet”—obvious, but still satisfying to hear out loud.
What makes this title even more powerful is that it comes during their enlistment era. While all seven members are currently serving in the military, their impact hasn’t dimmed for even a second. That’s the kind of cultural force we’re talking about—one that doesn’t pause for anything, not even mandatory service. Their music, their messages, and their legacy continue to resonate so strongly that they’re literally shaping culture without even being on stage right now.
For ARMY, this recognition is another reminder that BTS’s influence isn’t measured in just numbers—it’s measured in the way they’ve redefined pride, identity, and unity for millions around the world. They’ve gone from breaking records to becoming the record, and 2025’s title just makes it official once again.
So yes, BTS is the most influential cultural artist group of 2025. And the year after that? And the year after that? Probably. Because at this point, BTS doesn’t just influence culture—they are the culture.
