2025 MAMA Awards: A Night of Music, Respect, and Global K-pop Power The 2025 MAMA Awards officially kicked off in Hong Kong on November 28, bringing together some of the biggest artists in K-pop and showcasing the genre’s ever-growing global influence. While this year’s opening felt more solemn than usual due to the recent apartment fire tragedy in Hong Kong, the ceremony maintained its core mission: to celebrate music, artistry, and the global K-pop community. The event took place at Kai Tak Stadium, transforming the venue into a massive stage where fans from all over the world gathered to witness powerful performances and major award moments. A Respectful Opening in Hong Kong https://www.newsis.com/view/NISX20251128_0003421850 Before the show began, the main host, Park Bo-gum, addressed the audience with a thoughtful message. Dressed in a black suit and ribbon, he invited attendees to join in a moment of silence for the victims of the recent fire incident. His opening remarks emphasized healing, unity, and the belief that music carries a unique power to comfort people during difficult times. After the tribute, the ceremony moved forward with a renewed sense of responsibility, and artists delivered performances that balanced energy with sincerity. A More Minimal and Reflective Stage Atmosphere https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20251128153551005?input=1195m Because of the somber mood in Hong Kong, this year’s MAMA opted for a more toned-down production. Performances were presented with minimal pyrotechnics and fewer flashy effects. Many artists chose black or neutral-toned outfits, and some even attached black ribbons to their costumes as a symbolic gesture of support. Interestingly, teams with songs containing the word “fire” or similar imagery adjusted their lyrics for the evening, demonstrating respect for local audiences. Even within these limitations, the stages remained impactful—showing how K-pop performance can be expressive without relying on spectacle alone. Star-Studded Lineup: From ENHYPEN to RISE https://www.newsen.com/news_view.php?uid=202511290116555510 The first day of the 2025 MAMA Awards was packed with top names in K-pop, including ENHYPEN, RISE, Stray Kids, NCT WISH, SUPER JUNIOR, TWS, and more. Each group delivered strong stages tailored to the night’s emotional tone. Fans also took notice that several major artists, including STRAY KIDS, aespa, and RISE, wore black ribbons during their appearances, reinforcing the ceremony’s theme of solidarity. Although Hong Kong actress Michelle Yeoh was originally scheduled to present an award, she did not attend the event, likely in respect to the local tragedy. Major Awards: Rosé and ENHYPEN Take Home Grand Prizes The highlight of the first night was the announcement of the Daesang (Grand Prize) winners. ⭐ Song of the Year: Rosé & Bruno Mars – “APT.” https://isplus.com/article/view/isp202511290014 Rosé, who was not present at the ceremony, delivered her acceptance speech via video. She thanked fans, producers, and the entire creative team behind APT., a song that became a global phenomenon in 2025. Notably, the track had already made history earlier this year by winning “Song of the Year” at the MTV VMAs—the first time ever for a K-pop artist. She also humorously addressed her collaborator: “Bruno, we won Song of the Year!” ⭐ Fan’s Choice: ENHYPEN https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20251128153551005?input=1195m ENHYPEN claimed one of the night’s Daesangs, making it an especially meaningful moment ahead of their upcoming 5th debut anniversary. Members expressed deep gratitude toward fans and also shared words of comfort for those affected by the recent events in Hong Kong. Member Sunoo grew emotional during his speech, saying it felt like a dream just to be standing on such a stage. Additional Notable Awards https://sports.khan.co.kr/article/202511291114003?pt=nv Rookie of the Year: CORTIS & HEART2HEART Fan’s Choice Top 10 (Male): ENHYPEN, RISE, Stray Kids, ZEROBASEONE, Baekhyun, SEVENTEEN, Jin, G-Dragon, J-Hope, NCT DREAM Fan’s Choice Top 10 (Female): BABYMONSTER, HEART2HEART, aespa, IVE, Irene, IU, ILLIT, ITZY, LE SSERAFIM, TWICE Favorite Global Performer: IVE Favorite Group (Male): BOYNEXTDOOR Favorite Global Artist: ENHYPEN Inspiring Achievement Award: SUPER JUNIOR Global Trend Song: IVE – “Rebel Heart” With this diverse lineup of winners, the ceremony highlighted both the rising power of rookie groups and the continued dominance of established superstars. Why This Year’s MAMA Was Especially Meaningful https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20251128153551005?input=1195m The 2025 MAMA Awards showcased more than just performances and trophies—it showed how the K-pop industry responds thoughtfully to moments of hardship. The artists, staff, and organizers collectively embraced the idea of “healing through music,” delivering a show that was both respectful and impactful. Despite modifications to the staging and tone, the energy and passion remained intact. The awards once again proved that K-pop has a unique cultural influence that extends beyond entertainment, reaching audiences worldwide. The Show Continues The 2025 MAMA Awards will continue on November 29 with a second day of performances and award announcements. As always, fans around the world are eagerly anticipating more unforgettable stages. The 2025 MAMA Awards continue today, November 29, at the Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong. The ceremony will be broadcast live at 7:30 PM across CHZZK, Mnet, tvN SHOW, TVING, and Naver TV, with Park Bo-gum and Kim Hye-soo returning as hosts for the second night. #MAMAAwards #2025MAMA #KpopAwards #KpopNews #HongKongEvent #Rose #BrunoMars #APT #ENHYPEN #StrayKids #RISE #IVE #BabyMonster #TWS #SuperJunior #Aespa #NCTDREAM #KpopPerformance #KpopStage #FansChoice #SongOfTheYear #KpopCulture #KpopGlobal #KpopUpdate #KpopIdols #Kpop2025 #HongKongArena #KpopCeremony #KpopCommunity #KpopSupport
