Abstract. We study the nonequilibrium phenomena of a coupled active rotator model in complex networks. From a numerical Langevin simulation, we find the peculiar phase transition not only on globally connected network but also on other complex networks and reveal the corresponding phase diagram. In this model, two phases — stationary and quasi-periodic moving phases — are observed, in which microscopic dynamics are thoroughly investigated. We extend our study to the nonidentical oscillators and the more heterogeneous degree distribution of complex networks. Key words: active rotator model, phase transitions, complex networks