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The 2025 MAMA Awards took over Hong Kong on November 28, bringing together global K-pop fans for one of the industry’s biggest nights of celebration, performance, and recognition. Held at the massive Kai Tak Stadium, Chapter 1 of this year’s ceremony showcased the power of music to unite people – especially meaningful in a year marked by both excitement and unexpected sorrow. With unforgettable stages and historic wins, the 2025 MAMA Awards once again proved why it remains a defining event in K-pop.

What Are the MAMA Awards and Why Do They Matter?

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First launched in 1999 as the Mnet Video Music Awards, the MAMA Awards have evolved into one of Asia’s most influential music ceremonies. Rebranded in 2009 as the Mnet Asian Music Awards and again in 2022 as the MAMA Awards, the event continues to shape the identity and direction of K-pop. Its global reach is massive: each year, millions of fans from over 200 regions tune in to watch the performances and see their favorite artists recognized.

For idols, producers, and agencies, winning a MAMA Award is more than just taking home a trophy – it signals international impact, musical achievement, and artistic growth. For global fans, MAMA serves as a year-end celebration of everything that made K-pop shine.

How This Year’s Ceremony Unfolded

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The 2025 ceremony returned to Hong Kong for the first time in seven years, drawing attention not only for its location but also for the venue – Kai Tak Stadium, marking the first time a K-pop awards show was held at such a grand scale.

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However, the event took place shortly after a tragic apartment fire in Hong Kong that resulted in significant casualties. While the ceremony continued as scheduled, 2025 MAMA included a special “Support Hong Kong” message, and participating artists wore black ribbons or expressed condolences on stage. The tribute was brief, respectful, and gave way to an evening focused on the healing and unifying power of music.

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From rookies to industry legends, performers delivered high-energy stages prepared with immense passion. Chapter 1 featured artists like ENHYPEN, BABYMONSTER, IVE, (G)I-DLE, Hearts2Hearts, TREASURE, and more, showcasing the diverse talent that defined the year.

2025 MAMA Award Winners

G-DRAGON — Artist of the Year (Daesang)

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G-DRAGON reclaimed his legendary status with one of the night’s most prestigious awards, honoring his influence,

artistry, and impact across global music markets this year.

Stray Kids — Album of the Year (Daesang)

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Stray Kids captured the Album of the Year trophy for KARMA, a project that dominated international charts and reaffirmed their position as global trendsetters.

Rosé — Song of the Year (Daesang)

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Rosé took home Song of the Year for “APT.”, her massively successful collaboration with Bruno Mars that topped charts worldwide and became one of 2025’s defining hits.

ENHYPEN — Worldwide Fans’ Choice of the Year (Daesang)

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Powered by overwhelming fan support, ENHYPEN won the fan-voted Daesang for the fifth consecutive year, proving their unmatched global fandom power. In addition to their Daesang, ENHYPEN also won the Chapter 1 Fans’ Choice Award, selected entirely through fan voting.

CORTIS — Rookie of the Year

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CORTIS earned one of the coveted Rookie awards just 100 days after debut, marking them as one of the most promising new groups to watch in 2026.

Hearts2Hearts — Rookie of the Year

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Hearts2Hearts were also awarded Rookie of the Year, achieving one of their biggest goals since debut and promising even greater growth ahead.

aespa — Best Female Group

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aespa won Best Female Group after a standout year filled with viral performances, digital success, and strong global visibility.

SEVENTEEN — Best Male Group

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SEVENTEEN continued their legacy of excellence by securing Best Male Group, recognized for their consistently powerful music and world-class performances.

G-DRAGON — Best Male Artist

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Alongside his Daesang, G-DRAGON also received Best Male Artist, celebrating his return and artistic influence this year.

Rosé — Best Female Artist

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Rosé’s phenomenal year was further highlighted with Best Female Artist, reflecting her vocal mastery and global reach.

Netflix “K-POP Demon Hunters” — Music Visionary Award

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This special award honored the film K-POP Demon Hunters for its creative contribution to expanding K-pop’s global narrative and cultural influence.

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The 2025 MAMA Awards once again captured the spirit of K-pop – bold, boundary-breaking, and deeply connected to fans worldwide. From emotional tributes to electric performances and well-deserved wins, this year’s ceremony reminded the world why K-pop continues to thrive as a global cultural force. As artists push creative boundaries and fandoms grow stronger, the legacy of MAMA – and K-pop’s future – looks brighter than ever.