G-Dragon Win dominated the 2025 MAMA Awards as the BIGBANG frontman earned Artist of the Year. The ceremony occurred at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong, days after a deadly apartment fire killed over 100 people. Consequently, G-Dragon Win accepted the top award and delivered a heartfelt message to fans.
He thanked fans for their ongoing support, saying this year felt unlike any other in his career. Additionally, G-Dragon Win mentioned BIGBANG’s 20th anniversary and promised to celebrate with VIPs and fans next year. Earlier, he donated HK$1 million ($128,452) to support fire victims, showing his commitment to humanitarian efforts through music and public engagement.
Attendees dressed in black or muted tones, and organizers scaled back the program to honor the victims. Meanwhile, actor Kim Hye-soo opened the event with a condolence message. Presenters, including Yim Si-wan, emphasized hopes for Hong Kong’s recovery.
Other major awards highlighted top K-pop achievements. Rose won Song of the Year for “APT.,” while Stray Kids earned Album of the Year for “Karma,” thanking fans emotionally onstage. Additionally, Enhypen won Fans’ Choice of the Year, and rookie groups Cortis and Hearts2Hearts received Best New Artist honors.
The ceremony also featured a live-action recreation of Netflix’s animated hit, “KPop Demon Hunters.” Babymonster members Pharita, Ahyeon, and Rora performed as Huntr/x, singing “What It Sounds Like” and “Golden.” Actor Ahn Hyo-seop, the voice of lead character Jin-woo, introduced the performance and encouraged audiences to find hope through music.
However, organizers canceled a Saja Boys performance, which included members from Boynextdoor, Riize, TWS, and Zerobaseone. They considered the “grim reaper” theme inappropriate after the city’s disaster.
G-Dragon Win’s recognition highlights his influence in K-pop, blending artistic achievement with social responsibility. As a result, his award and charitable contributions show how artists can lead culturally and humanitarianly.
Overall, the 2025 MAMA Awards balanced celebration with empathy for affected communities, setting a precedent for future music ceremonies.
