Stray Kids Rule With ‘S-Class’ at 2023 MTV VMAs

After earning the MTV Video Music Award for Best K-Pop with the music video for “S-Class,” Stray Kids took a well-deserved victory lap with a high-octane performance of the single at the 2023 VMAs, held at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. on Tuesday night (Sept. 12).

Following an introduction by Saweetie, Stray Kids took the stage and immediately began the lockstep choreography, dynamic visuals and multi-layered vocals that have helped them pack arenas around the globe. “Luxurious like I’m an S-Class / Best of the best, on first class,” Bang Chan rapped while showing off pinpoint moves.

As the performance shifted to capture the different movements of the single and Stray Kids were joined by a slew of dancers, the eight members remained in command of the Prudential Center, which had bellowed in delight as the group took the stage. The crowd reaction following the performance was just as breathless, as Stray Kids were met with rapturous applause.

Earlier on Tuesday night, Stray Kids took the VMAs stage when “S-Class” earned the Best K-Pop trophy, winning over visuals from aespa, BLACKPINK, FIFTY FIFTY, SEVENTEEN and TOMORROW X TOGETHER. “We’ve been making our music ever since the start of our career, but to receive this award just really means a lot to us,” Bang Chan said from the stage.

Felix added, “We just want to thank our label, JYP division 1, and we want to thank Republic Records. And also we want to thank our fans, our STAYs, for being so supportive. Please. We have so much to show you guys so please look forward to the future.”

“S-Class” is featured on 5-STAR, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart in June. The chart-topping bow marked Stray Kids’ third No. 1 project on the Billboard 200, following MAXIDENT and ODDINARY last year.