The 2025 MAMA Awards officially commenced on November 28 at the Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong, delivering glitz, glamour, and powerful performances – even in the shadow of recent local tragedy. Despite concerns following a deadly fire at Wang Fuk Court affecting several residential buildings, the opening day of Asia’s premier music celebration proceeded as planned, hosted by the charismatic Park Bo Gum.
Often dubbed the “Grammys of Asia,” the MAMA Awards draw global attention for honoring the biggest names in K-pop and international music. This year’s Chapter 1 ceremony saw ENHYPEN, Rosé, and Bruno Mars leave an indelible mark, sweeping major categories while IVE also made a strong showing with multiple wins.
Top Honors of Chapter 1
- Fans’ Choice of the Year went to ENHYPEN, marking another milestone in the boy group’s meteoric rise.
- Song of the Year was awarded to Rosé and Bruno Mars for their hit APT, cementing its status as one of 2025’s defining tracks.
- ENHYPEN further secured TELASA Favorite Global Artist and a spot in the Fans’ Choice Top 10.
- IVE matched ENHYPEN’s total awards count, winning Global Trend Song for REBEL HEART, Favorite Female Group, and a Fans’ Choice Top 10 spot.
Additional Award Highlights:
- Fans’ Choice Male Top 10: Baekhyun, SEVENTEEN, Jin, ENHYPEN, G-Dragon, j-hope, NCT DREAM, RIIZE, Stray Kids, ZEROBASEONE.
- Fans’ Choice Female Top 10: Irene, IU, ILLIT, aespa, BABYMONSTER, Hearts2Hearts, I-dle, ITZY, LE SSERAFIM, TWICE.
- Inspiring Achievement: Super Junior.
- Best New Artist: CORTIS, Hearts2Hearts.
- Favorite Male Group: BoyNextDoor.
- Favorite Global Performer: IVE.
Performances that Lit Up the Night
Audiences were treated to high-energy sets from a roster of popular acts, including IVE, ENHYPEN, BoyNextDoor, Yeonjun, Treasure, (G)I-DLE, Super Junior, BABYMONSTER, Alpha Drive One, Meovv, TWS, Hearts2Hearts, NCT Wish, and Bumsup. Each stage brought unique flair, from sleek choreography to powerful live vocals, reinforcing why the MAMA Awards is a must-watch global event.
The first night concluded with anticipation for Chapter 2, set to take place on November 29 at 7:30 PM KST, where the remaining honors will be revealed.
