K-Pop band BTS was the big winner at the American Music Awards on Sunday just four years after making their first appearance on the fan-voted show.

The seven-member band from South Korea beat veteran Taylor Swift, rapper Drake, pop singer Ariana Grande, teen phenomenon Olivia Rodrigo and Canadian The Weeknd for the night's biggest prize - artist of the year.

Adored by an army of fervent fans, they also were named favourite pop group and won best pop song for their summer hit Butter.

The band, known for its positive, uplifting music, called the artist of the year win a miracle.

"We're truly honoured to be on this stage with such amazing, tremendous artists," said Kim Nam-Joon, known as RM.

"It's been a long and amazing ride ... nobody could have ever bet on the odds of us standing here and receiving this award, except you all," he added, referring to the band's fans.