The Fact Music Awards (TMA 2025) is one of South Korea’s premier annual music award ceremonies, celebrating the global influence of K-pop. Established in 2019 by The Fact and organized by Fan N Star, TMA has quickly grown into an internationally recognized event.
Unlike other awards, it uses a unique judging system combining objective data from Circle Chart, evaluations by professional judges, and fan voting from both domestic and global audiences.
The 2025 edition continues its global expansion by taking place outside South Korea for the second consecutive year. Carrying the theme “Shining for Artists, Exciting for Fans!,” The Fact Music Awards 2025 aims to provide both performers and fans with a festival-like experience.
The Fact Music Awards 2025 Date and Venue
The TMA 2025 ceremony will take place on September 20, 2025, at the Macao Outdoor Performance Venue in Macao, China. Following last year’s event in Osaka, Japan, the Macao Outdoor Performance Venue represents a move towards larger, more visually spectacular settings.
The venue can host approximately 50,000 attendees, making it one of the largest overseas K-pop awards stages. Its state-of-the-art production facilities will allow elaborate stage designs that incorporate the city’s skyline and natural surroundings.
Full Lineup of Performing Artists
TMA 2025’s lineup features both established stars and emerging talent from the fourth and fifth generations of K-pop.
- NEXZ
- BOYNEXTDOOR
- NMIXX
- NCT WISH
- KiiiKiii
- Hearts2Hearts
- MEOVV
- AHOF
- ENHYPEN
- ZEROBASEONE
- CLOSE YOUR EYES
- TWS
- Stray Kids
- aespa
- IVE
Hosts and MCs
The ceremony will be hosted by Jun Hyun-moo and Seohyun (Girls’ Generation), returning as the signature duo for the seventh time. Yoo Jae Pil will handle pre-show coverage and interviews, ensuring smooth transitions from arrivals to the main ceremony.
Award Categories and Voting Information
TMA 2025 evaluates artists through a combination of objective data, judge panel reviews, and fan votes. Key awards include:
- Grand Prize (Daesang): Top honor for overall excellence
- Artist of the Year (Bonsang): Multiple recipients for outstanding achievement
- Best Performer Award: Recognizing exceptional stage presence
- Next Leader Award: Honoring rising stars shaping K-pop’s future
- Worldwide Icon Award: Celebrating global influence
- Popularity Award: Fan-voted
- Global Hot-Trend Award: International buzz recognition
Since 2019, TMA has recognized both commercial success and artistic excellence.
Daesang Winners:
2018–2022: BTS
2023: SEVENTEEN
2024: aespa (first girl group to win)
Other awards have honored artists such as Stray Kids, IVE, Mamamoo, NewJeans, and more.
Fan Voting Windows:
For 2025, voting is open for two major categories: the FAN N STAR Choice Award will run from August 18 at 12 pm KST to September 8 at 12:00 PM KST, and the TMA Popularity Award will be held from August 20 at 12 pm KST to September 10 at 12 pm KST. Fans worldwide can register on Fan N Star to vote daily and contribute to the outcome of these awards and support their favorite artists on the global stage.
Live Streaming and Broadcasting
TMA 2025 will be globally streamed. While official platforms are yet to be confirmed, fans can expect multi-language streaming options and potential broadcasts via Weverse Live, V Live, and select TV networks across Asia. For updates, check the official TMA website and social media channels.
Expectations for TMA 2025
Fans can anticipate:
- Exclusive debut performances from August comebacks
- Collaborative stages among different artists
- Advanced production elements, including XR and interactive visuals
- Global fan interactions, highlighting K-pop’s international appeal
Mark your calendar for September 20, when TMA 2025 will be held in Macao.
