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ENHYPEN accepts the grand prize during the first night of the 2025 MAMA Awards at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium on November 28. / Source: CJ ENM

The first night of the 2025 MAMA Awards opened on November 28 under an atmosphere of grief and solidarity, following the deadly apartment fire that devastated Hong Kong earlier this week. The somber ceremony saw ENHYPEN and BLACKPINK’s Rosé take home the night’s top honors, adding meaning to what organizers called “music’s power to heal.”

Although the show was held as planned at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium, the local mood remained heavy with shock. Organizers CJ ENM decided to proceed with the event while dedicating it to victims and relief efforts.

Host Park Bo-gum, dressed in a black suit, began the ceremony with a moment of silence. “We prepared tonight with hearts of comfort and condolence,” he said. “We believe in the healing power of music.” He also introduced the “Support Hong Kong” message, announcing that donations would go toward helping those affected.

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Rosé accepts the Song of the Year award for “APT.” via video message during the 2025 MAMA Awards on November 28. / Source: Mnet

Performers and staff wore muted tones, and stage effects and cheers were deliberately minimized. Staff reportedly asked audiences to remain calm and respectful. With Michelle Yeoh absent in mourning, artists including Stray Kids, RIIZE, AlphaDriveOne, Super Junior and Tours performed with black ribbons pinned to their outfits.

Singer Miyao changed her song title from “Burning Up” to “Turn It Up,” removing any direct references to fire. BABYMONSTER similarly altered lyrics from “Burn it up” to “Going up,” emphasizing safety and sensitivity.

In their acceptance speech, ENHYPEN said, “We send our deepest condolences to everyone affected by the tragedy. We hope our performance gives you some strength.” RIIZE added, “We wish for a swift recovery for Hong Kong,” while Stray Kids told the audience in English, “You are not alone. We want to give you strength through our music.”

Rosé, who received the Song of the Year award for “APT.”, appeared in a recorded video message, saying, “This is all thanks to the incredible love from my fans.” She also gave a lighthearted shout-out to Bruno Mars, saying, “We got Song of the Year!”

ENHYPEN, who also received a grand prize, said, “This feels like a gift from our fans just before our fifth anniversary.” Member Sunoo was overcome with emotion, unable to finish his speech.

The Rookie of the Year award went to CORTIS and Hearts2Hearts, while Super Junior received the Inspiring Achievement Award in honor of their 20th debut anniversary. IVE emerged as a triple winner, taking home Favorite Female Group, Favorite Global Performer, and Global Trend Song for “Rebel Heart.”

The 2025 MAMA Awards will continue its second day of performances and awards at the same venue on November 29.