The 2025 MAMA Awards will go on as planned in Hong Kong on November 28 and 29, as confirmed by organizers. However, the entire event is now taking on a very different tone after a devastating apartment complex fire shook the city. The fire, which broke out on November 26 at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, claimed many lives and left Hong Kong in deep mourning.
The tragedy also prompted major event cancellations in the city, including a Disney film premiere and a major cycling race.
CJ ENM, the organizer of the MAMA Awards, said it would move forward with the ceremony but with major changes out of respect for the victims and the grieving community. The company released a statement expressing its condolences and said it wanted the event to offer comfort rather than spectacle.
They explained that the show is being redesigned so the performances feel gentle, healing, and hopeful. They made it clear that this is not a moment for flashy stage effects or high-energy celebrations.
Because of the somber atmosphere, the red carpet event has been canceled entirely. CJ ENM said the awards ceremony itself will still be held and broadcast live, but many parts of the production are being adjusted. Scripts are being rewritten. Special effects are being reviewed. Some stage elements are being removed or toned down so nothing feels insensitive.
The organizers also added that the event will include a dedicated time of remembrance. They want to share in Hong Kong’s grief and will be making donations to support the victims and their families. The message “Support Hong Kong” will be highlighted throughout the two-day show.
The change in tone has already affected the lineup. Hong Kong’s own boy band Mirror decided to withdraw from the event. International stars who were originally expected to appear as presenters, including Michelle Yeoh and Chow Yun-fat, are also now unlikely to attend.
Meanwhile, parts of the K-pop industry have stepped forward to help. K-pop label SM Entertainment contributed 1 million Hong Kong dollars to the Hong Kong Red Cross to support victims. aespa added 500,000 Hong Kong dollars and RIIZE donated 250,000. Their contributions reflect the wider music community’s wish to support the city during this difficult time.
Even with the changes, the MAMA Awards will still feature many of the biggest names in K-pop. ALPHA DRIVE ONE, BABYMONSTER, ENHYPEN, Hearts2Hearts, TWS, Stray Kids, ZEROBASEONE, and G-Dragon are among those scheduled to perform at the Kai Tak Stadium. The venue is about 20 kilometers from the site of the fire, which makes the mood surrounding the event even more sensitive.
CJ ENM said they believe in the healing and unifying power of music. They hope the performances can bring even a small amount of comfort and courage to those watching. The company also emphasized that it will carry out the event with a sense of responsibility until the very end.
