The Best of MAMA 2025
Artist of the Year
And the winner is… G-Dragon! The legendary Big Bang idol made history by taking home the night’s biggest award as a solo artist. Honestly, after the year he’s had, with a massive world tour and a hit album, it’s not all that surprising. Even as a veteran, he keeps putting out music that everyone connects with, proving once again that real talent and fresh ideas are what truly lead the industry.
Cortis’ Performance Proves Why They’re Best New Artist
Best New Artist winners Cortis delivered a performance to remember with their hits “Go” and “Fashion.” For a rookie group, they owned the stage like they were manifesting it as the opening night of a future world tour. Maybe they were giving us a little taste of what’s coming? If so, it worked, because creating a beat live in front of thousands and commanding the crowd the way they did is far from a rookie move. That’s a Best New Artist move… and maybe even a future Daesang-winner move.
A Moment of Silence for the Hong Kong Fire Tragedy
The tragedy in Hong Kong led many to believe that all scheduled events would be paused out of respect for the victims of the apartment fires that occurred just a day before the show. Yet the event went on, using its large platform to express condolences and stand in solidarity with the affected families. In such a difficult moment, the show may have offered a brief respite, helping people lift their spirits even if only for a short time. Music can mean far more than just lyrics and choreography, and this was a clear example of its power to unite, comfort, and provide support. The event became a way for the music industry to come together, offer aid, and honor those affected by the tragedy.
K-Pop Legends Bring Back the Sound That Started It All
K-pop pioneers and second-generation idols took the stage this year with iconic hits like “Sorry, Sorry,” reminding everyone of the very foundation of the K-pop sound. It’s expected to see today’s most active artists at one of the biggest award shows of the year, but it’s not every day that a second-gen group comes together for a full performance, especially with the songs that helped put K-pop on the global map. And honestly, the best part might be hearing the crowd’s cheers and seeing the overwhelming support they still receive. It’s pure nostalgia, respect, and love all wrapped into one moment.
The Huntrix is Everywhere
It wouldn’t be a proper show without one of this year’s biggest hits, K-pop Demon Hunters. YG Entertainment’s Babymonster members—Ahyeon, Rora, and Pharita—took the stage as the Huntrix, performing the Grammy nominated track “Golden.” They delivered powerful vocals that impressed both the audience and fellow artists. But honestly, if you’ve ever been to a Babymonster concert, this level of performance is just part of what makes them Babymonster.
