MAMA 2025, one of Asia’s most high-profile music awards ceremonies, opened on November 28 at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong under a heavy cloud of mourning. Just days before the event, a massive residential fire broke out at Wang Fook Court in Tai Po, killing nearly 100 people and sending shockwaves across the globe.
In response to the tragedy, Mnet and the organizing committee significantly adjusted the scale and tone of the event. The red carpet was completely canceled, pyrotechnics and explosive LED effects were removed, and performers were asked to tone down emotions out of respect for the victims.
Host Park Bo Gum took the stage wearing a black ribbon on his chest. Before announcing any awards, he led a one-minute moment of silence to honor the lives lost in the fire. The entire production reflected a quiet solemnity, a stark contrast to the usual high-energy glitz of previous MAMA shows.
Most artists wore black outfits on stage. Groups such as (G)I-DLE, ENHYPEN, and others modified their choreography and avoided overly flashy effects. Even during emotional acceptance speeches, artists refrained from smiling or celebrating exuberantly. Observers noted that “almost no one dared to smile” during the broadcast.
Despite the subdued tone, the event still delivered key moments of recognition:
- Rosé won Song of the Year (Daesang) for her smash hit “APT.” featuring Bruno Mars. The track had previously achieved a Perfect All-Kill, and its MV surpassed 2.1 billion views in just 378 days. Though she couldn’t attend in person, Rosé sent a heartfelt video message, becoming the first female solo artist to win this award since PSY, Cho Yong Pil, and Taeyang.
- ENHYPEN took home their fourth Daesang of the year, winning Fan’s Choice of the Year, following earlier wins at D-Awards, ASEA, and TMA.
- Rising rookie group CORTIS, under HYBE Labels, received Best New Artist, just over three months after their debut, alongside Hearts2Hearts.
Other major winners included IVE (Global Performance Artist, Most Popular Girl Group), BOYNEXTDOOR (Most Popular Boy Group), and Super Junior, who were honored for Inspirational Achievement.
ARTISTS WHO WON AWARDS AT MAMA 2025 (DAY 1)
- Daesang – Fan’s Choice of the Year: ENHYPEN
- Daesang – Song of the Year: APT. (ROSÉ, Bruno Mars)
- Fan’s Choice Award: ENHYPEN, RIIZE, BABYMONSTER, STRAY KIDS, HEARTS2HEARTS, ZEROBASEONE, aespa, (G)I-DLE, BAEKHYUN, SEVENTEEN, IRENE, IU, ILLIT, JIN, G-DRAGON, ITZY, j-hope, LE SSERAFIM, NCT DREAM, TWICE
- Best New Artist: CORTIS, HEARTS2HEARTS
- Global Performance Artist: IVE
- Most Popular Global Artist (TELASA): ENHYPEN
- Favorite Female Group: IVE
- Favorite Male Group: BOYNEXTDOOR
- Inspiring Achievement Award: Super Junior
With Day 1 wrapped, anticipation is mounting for Day 2 of MAMA 2025, set for November 29. Among the most awaited moments is the return of G-DRAGON, sparking excitement across the global K-pop community. Several major Daesang categories remain unrevealed, keeping fans on edge for what’s next in this emotionally charged yet historic edition of MAMA.
Sources: Kenh14,Tuoi Tre