The 2025 MAMA AWARDS proved the healing power of music, as G-DRAGON, Rosé, and aespa each claimed four awards, delivering consolation that echoed beyond the trophies in a night filled not with fireworks, but with solidarity and comfort for Hong Kong.
The event took place at the Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong on November 28–29, hosted by CJ ENM.
Originally themed “UH-HEUNG,” the festival shifted into a tone of mourning and comfort following a large-scale apartment fire in the Tai Po district that claimed 128 lives and injured 79. Host Park Bo-gum appeared on stage without music, leading a moment of silence and announcing that donations would be made to support the victims.
Artists also participated in tribute efforts by modifying lyrics and stage concepts. Rookie girl group MEOVV changed “Burning Up” to “Turn It Up,” altering lines like “Got me burning” to “Got me turning” to avoid hurting those affected. BABYMONSTER also replaced “Burn it up” with “Going up.”
The atmosphere shifted with the appearance of (G)I-DLE, sparking a powerful transition in energy. Super Junior, IVE, ENHYPEN, TREASURE, and NCT WISH elevated the stage with intense performances, bridging sorrow with music and unity.
IVE earned three awards, including “Global Trend Song,” while ENHYPEN secured one of the major Grand Prizes, “VISA Fans’ Choice of the Year.” The “VISA Song of the Year” went to Rosé and Bruno Mars for “APT.”
Day 2 began with actress Kim Hye-soo in a black suit and ribbon, leading the ceremony with dignity. Presenters such as Im Si-wan, Hye-ri, Shin Seung-hun, Lee Soo-hyuk, and Jo Yu-ri all dressed in monochrome, echoing solidarity and sympathy.
Stages prioritized sincerity over spectacle, including a special performance from Netflix’s “K-Pop Demon Hunters,” an OST stage by BABYMONSTER, and actor Ahn Hyo-seop’s narration of hope. Meanwhile, the “Reaper Boys” performance was canceled as part of the tribute.
G-DRAGON closed the ceremony, returning to the MAMA stage after 10 years. His performances of “Crooked,” “Crayon,” “Drama,” and “Untitled” moved the audience, especially during his emotional and stripped-down delivery.
Hong Kong film legend Chow Yun-fat, appearing as the presenter for “VISA Artist of the Year,” led a tearful moment of silence before warmly embracing G-DRAGON. G-DRAGON, Rosé, and aespa each claimed four awards.
G-DRAGON said, “I prepared this stage hoping it will bring strength to those grieving in sadness. I don’t know what words could comfort them, but I hope they stay strong.” He then surprised fans by saying, “Next year marks BIGBANG’s 20th anniversary. I will return with the full group.”
aespa’s Winter shared, “Many people are going through difficult times. We want to send our condolences,” while Ningning added, “We thank everyone working behind the scenes and the fans who helped us stand here united.”
Stray Kids’ Seungmin and Felix also said, “We deeply mourn the victims in Hong Kong. We stand with you.” Rosé, in her video speech, expressed gratitude and promised to continue delivering meaningful music.
The 2025 MAMA AWARDS will be remembered not for glamour, but for sincerity, unity, and the healing power of music.
Reported by News Culture M.J._mj94070777@nc.press
Copyright ⓒ 뉴스컬처 무단 전재 및 재배포 금지
본 콘텐츠는 뉴스픽 파트너스에서 공유된 콘텐츠입니다.
