Balming Tiger's 'Gongbu' takes on Taylor Swift in 3 categories at 2026 UK Music Video Awards

Visual art evolves as it goes head-to-head with global pop stars

Balming Tiger, which is opening new ground for alternative K-pop, has received major recognition at one of the world's most prestigious music video awards. According to its agency, CAM, the group earned three nominations at the 2026 UK Music Video Awards, known as the UKMVA, cementing its position in the global music market.

The nominations mark significant international recognition for Balming Tiger's distinctive musical world and visual artistry. "Keep On," a track from the group's second full-length album, "Gongbu," is nominated for Best Alternative Video - International, while another track, "Oui," is a contender for Best Production Design in a Video, showcasing the group's exceptional visual aesthetic.

Member Lee Su-ho has made a particularly strong showing. He earned a nomination for Best Director, widely regarded as the highest individual honor, demonstrating his ability as a multidisciplinary artist beyond his role as a performer.

Launched in 2008, the UKMVA is a prestigious awards program that rigorously evaluates the creativity and production quality of content combining music and video. This year, global pop superstars including Charli XCX, Taylor Swift and Ariana Grande are among the nominees, making Balming Tiger's achievement in standing alongside them all the more notable.

This year's UKMVA ceremony, which has drawn the attention of music fans around the world, will take place July 4 local time at the historic Roundhouse concert venue in London.