The “2025 MBC Gayo Daejejeon ‘MOT’” opened the year 2026 with a spectacular stage that seamlessly connected K-pop’s past, present, and future.
Broadcast on December 31, the “2025 MBC Gayo Daejejeon ‘MOT’” captivated viewers with dynamic production that blended live band sounds with performances by the year’s top artists.
The event made its thematic intent clear from the outset, opening with remarks by Bae Cheol-soo, a symbolic figure in Korean popular music, followed by ATEEZ’s performance of “MOT.” Hosting duties were carried out by Minho, returning for his third consecutive year as MC, Hwang Min-hyun, who returned after a two-year absence, and ALLDAY PROJECT’s Annie, taking on the role for the first time and demonstrating strong on-stage chemistry.
The highlight of this year’s Gayo Daejejeon was unmistakably the fusion of generations and genres. The rock-spirit synergy between YB and Stray Kids’ Seungmin, along with the vocal collaboration between indie scene standout Hanroro and TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s Taehyun, showcased musical exchanges that transcended genre boundaries. Another widely discussed moment came from the fifth-generation girl group center combination dubbed “I.Bang.Won,” featuring Ian of Hearts2Hearts, Bang Jimin of Izna, and Wonhee of ILLIT, maximizing visual and performance synergy.
Stages commemorating the event’s 20th anniversary were equally notable. Rookie idols reinterpreted hit songs from 2005, including Lee Hyori’s “Anymotion” and Jinusean’s “Phone Number,” fostering intergenerational resonance. IVE’s Liz also delivered a deeply moving performance of “Adult,” a song marking her 20th year, leaving a strong emotional impression.
The presence of both emerging artists and top-tier groups further underscored the breadth of today’s K-pop scene. Groups that debuted in 2025, such as IDID, KiiiKiii, and CORTIS, displayed the ambition of newcomers, while aespa, NCT DREAM, and ITZY demonstrated the poise and experience of established acts. Stray Kids, in particular, drew attention for their performance incorporating AI-based stage production, suggesting new possibilities at the intersection of technology and K-pop performance.
Artists also shared their aspirations for 2026, the Year of the Horse. RIIZE’s Wonbin expressed his determination, saying, “Since it’s the Year of the Horse, I will run even harder and show better stages,” while newly come-of-age artists such as KickFlip’s Donghyun and IDID’s Seonghyeon shared modest yet heartfelt wishes, adding warmth to the atmosphere.
The concert concluded with all performers joining together to sing Kim Won-jun’s “Show.” United as one voice to mark the beginning of 2026, the finale powerfully conveyed K-pop’s enduring message of solidarity and hope.
Reported by News Culture M.J._mj94070777@nc.press
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