G-Dragon, Rosé & Bruno Mars, Stray Kids, and ENHYPEN (in order of debut) became the winners of the 4 major award trophies at the '2025 MAMA AWARDS'.
The '2025 MAMA AWARDS', held on the 28th and 29th at the Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong, was a global ceremony that summarized the achievements of the K-pop industry over the past year and highlighted the hard work of artists and industry personnel. Especially since it took place shortly after a high-rise apartment fire that resulted in significant loss of life in Hong Kong, the entire ceremony was heavily imbued with a mourning sentiment under the message 'Support Hong Kong'.
Hosts Park Bo-gum and Kim Hye-soo each took charge of Chapter 1 and Chapter 2. The two appeared on stage wearing black ribbons and suggested a moment of silence for the victims along with their opening greetings, emphasizing the power of healing and solidarity that music provides, reflecting on the significance of the ceremony. Artists and presenters present at the venue also wore black ribbons and conveyed messages of comfort and support to the citizens of Hong Kong in their own ways.
This year's 'MAMA AWARDS' was themed 'UH-HEUNG', embodying the expansiveness of K-pop that encompasses various cultures, regions, and races, and the message of 'Let’s accept ourselves as we are and shout our uniqueness without fear'. As a stage that encapsulated a year of K-pop that led to a global syndrome, the symbolism and influence of music were emphasized throughout the performances.
The stage was equally heated. From rookies backed by global fandom support to groups that have already established themselves as 'world-class', the performers showcased performances that transcended genres and generations based on solid skills and authenticity in music. Rather than focusing on flashy productions, the composition centered on live performances and interaction with the audience, naturally revealing the message that 'the essence of the awards ceremony is ultimately the stage and music'.
In the most anticipated award category, 'Song of the Year' was awarded to the global hit 'APT. (Apartment)' by BLACKPINK's Rosé and Bruno Mars. 'Album of the Year' went to Stray Kids for their 4th studio album 'KARMA', which recorded 7 consecutive weeks at number 1 on the Billboard 200. The title of 'Artist of the Year' was taken by G-Dragon of BIGBANG, reaffirming his status as a solo artist and legendary icon. The 'Fans' Choice of the Year', determined by 100% global fan voting, was awarded to ENHYPEN, proving the strong support of their worldwide fandom.
Additionally, the Rookie of the Year award went to Cortis and Hatz to Hatz, signaling the emergence of the 'next generation of K-pop contenders'. The Best Male Group award went to SEVENTEEN, while the Best Female Group award was given to aespa. The Best Male Artist award was claimed by G-Dragon, and the Best Female Artist award went to Rosé. Furthermore, the 'Music Visionary of the Year' award, given to content that presented new possibilities in music and visuals over the year, was awarded to the Netflix animated film 'K-POP DEMON HUNTERS', drawing attention.
Starting in 1999 with Mnet's 'Video Music Awards', the 'MAMA AWARDS' expanded its scope to an Asian music awards ceremony in 2009, and rebranded as a global brand in 2022, advocating for 'good influence' and 'the power of music'. The 2025 ceremony, held amidst the tragedy of the Hong Kong fire with the message 'Support Hong Kong', served as a testament to K-pop functioning as a cultural platform that conveys comfort and solidarity beyond mere entertainment.
