Hong Kong, November 28, 2025 – The MAMA Awards 2025 will proceed as scheduled at the Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong, organizers CJ ENM confirmed, despite a devastating fire that engulfed a residential complex in the Tai Po district on November 26. The blaze, which has claimed the lives of at least 94 people with scores still missing, prompted concerns and debate regarding the appropriateness of holding a large-scale celebratory event in the wake of such tragedy.
In an official statement released on November 27, CJ ENM expressed their deepest condolences to the victims and their families. "We extend our heartfelt sympathy to all those, including the bereaved families, who are experiencing hardship through great loss and anxiety," the statement read.
Acknowledging the somber atmosphere in Hong Kong, the organizers announced adjustments to the awards ceremony to create a more "restrained and thoughtful" event. The red carpet event was cancelled as a mark of respect. The main ceremony will still be broadcast live as planned. Stage design and program flow are being carefully prepared to emphasize comfort and hope, rather than dazzling productions. The event will include a moment of silence to honor the victims.
"Believing in the healing and unifying power of music, we have carefully planned the overall stage composition and proceedings to ensure that it becomes a ceremony that conveys comfort and hope, rather than just dazzling productions," CJ ENM stated. "We hope that music can bring even a small amount of comfort and courage to everyone's hearts".
The 2025 MAMA Awards will incorporate a "Support Hong Kong" message to share in the sorrow and commemorate the victims. The organizers also intend to contribute to relief efforts through donations.
Despite the decision to proceed, some adjustments have been made to the lineup. Hong Kong boy band Mirror has withdrawn from the event. However, other prominent artists, including G-Dragon, Stray Kids, Aespa, Tomorrow x Together, Zerobaseone, and Riize, are still scheduled to perform. Actor Park Bo-gum will host the first day of the festival, with actress Kim Hye-soo hosting the second day.
The MAMA Awards are also set to feature a special collaboration stage, "KPop Demon Hunters Wonder Stage," bringing the climactic battle between Huntrix and Saja Boys from screen to stage.
The decision to continue with the MAMA Awards has sparked mixed reactions. Some netizens have called for the audience to dress in black and white to show respect for the victims. Others have urged performing groups to avoid songs with potentially sensitive meanings related to fire or death. Supporters of the event, however, argue that cancelling at the last minute would result in major financial losses and logistical complications.
The 2025 MAMA Awards is funded by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, as part of Hong Kong's efforts to cement its role as Asia's mega-event hub. The awards show, which returns to Hong Kong after seven years, is taking place at the 50,000-seat Kai Tak Stadium. The event is scheduled to open at 7:30 PM on November 28.
