2025 MAMA Awards: A Night of Remembrance and Celebration Amidst Hong Kong Tragedy

The 2025 MAMA Awards took place in a somber atmosphere as attendees paid tribute to the victims of the recent Hong Kong fire tragedy.

On November 28, the 2025 MAMA Awards were held at the Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong. Host Park Bo-gum appeared in a black suit adorned with a mourning ribbon.

A large fire broke out on November 26 in a high-rise apartment complex in the Tai Po area of northern Hong Kong, leading to a period of mourning. Park Bo-gum expressed his condolences, saying, "There was a tragic accident. I extend my deepest sympathies to those who lost their precious lives, loved ones, and friends in this incident. I sincerely hope for no further damage and would like to take a moment of silence." He then bowed his head in tribute to the victims.

The ceremony proceeded with a heavy heart, as artists and presenters took the stage in black attire, their expressions solemn. Black mourning ribbons were pinned to their chests. Before delivering their acceptance speeches, all performers expressed their condolences to the victims of the Hong Kong fire tragedy.

The MAMA organizers had previously stated, "We are preparing the overall stage composition and proceedings with caution to deliver performances that convey comfort and hope rather than flashy productions." Fire effects were entirely excluded from the stage. Some groups even altered their lyrics to reflect the local situation. MEOVV performed a medley of 'Hands Up' and 'Burning Up,' changing the lyrics from 'Burning Up' to 'Turn It Up' to avoid the connotation of burning.

The grand prize of the night went to the group ENHYPEN, who won the 'Fans' Choice of the Year' award. As their name was announced, the members embraced each other in joy. They remarked, "In two days, it will be exactly our 5th anniversary, and we consider this a 5th-anniversary gift from our fans, ENGENE." They continued, "This is a scene we've dreamed of. We are grateful just to be standing here," shedding tears of gratitude.

They also mentioned Bang Si-hyuk, the head of HYBE, saying, "Bang Si-hyuk PD respects each of us as individuals, not just as products or business assets. We are grateful for always guiding us to be good people."

The 'Song of the Year' award was given to Rosé and Bruno Mars for 'APT.' Other nominees included Jennie's 'Like JENNIE,' aespa's 'Whiplash,' G-Dragon's 'TOO BAD,' and HUNTR/X's 'Golden.' Despite being released in October last year, 'APT.' managed to secure the top spot.

Rosé, who did not attend the ceremony, shared her acceptance speech via video. She said, "Bruno, we won an award. I made many joyful memories at MAMA." Last year, Rosé and Bruno performed 'APT.' together at MAMA. Rosé added, "I'm happy to receive this award. I will continue to bring great songs and music."

The Best New Artist award went to CORTIS and Hearts2Hearts. CORTIS, who debuted less than 100 days ago, expressed, "The Best New Artist award is a once-in-a-lifetime honor, making it even more glorious. We thank producer Bang Si-hyuk and BIGHIT MUSIC for allowing us to freely pursue music."

Hearts2Hearts stated, "We debuted in February, and winning the Best New Artist award was always our goal. We didn't expect to receive it at MAMA, but it's an honor. It was possible because of our eight members. We will continue to look in the same direction and aim higher."

Meanwhile, this year's MAMA ceremony embraced the concept of 'UH-HEUNG,' symbolizing a fearless acceptance of oneself amidst diverse regions, races, and cultures. The MAMA Awards will continue until November 29.

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2025 MAMA Awards Day 1 Winners

▲ 'Fans' Choice of the Year' ENHYPEN
▲ 'Song of the Year' Rosé, Bruno Mars 'APT.'
▲ 'Fans' Choice Male Top 10' ZEROBASEONE, Stray Kids, RIIZE, NCT DREAM, j-hope, G-DRAGON, ENHYPEN, Jin, SEVENTEEN, BAEKHYUN
▲ 'Fans' Choice Female Top 10' TWICE, LE SSERAFIM, ITZY, i-dle, Hearts2Hearts, BABYMONSTER, aespa, ILLIT, IU, IRENE
▲ 'Favorite Female Group' IVE
▲ 'Favorite Male Group' BOYNEXTDOOR
▲ 'Favorite Global Performer' IVE
▲ 'TELASA Favorite Global Artist' ENHYPEN
▲ 'Best New Artist' CORTIS, Hearts2Hearts
▲ 'Global Trend Song' IVE 'Rebel Heart'
▲ 'Inspiring Achievement' SUPER JUNIOR

Reporter: Kim Ji-won, TenAsia one@tenasia.co.kr