The MAMA Awards 2025 are proceeding in Hong Kong, albeit with profound and necessary adjustments following a devastating fire incident. The prestigious event has significantly altered its plans as a mark of respect for the victims, particularly visible during its first day where many artists opted for solemn, darker attire and even modified lyrics to avoid any reference to fire or burning. Crucially, the production team has announced the cancellation of several highly anticipated performances slated for the second day, most notably the much-talked-about Saja Boys’ cover stage of KPop Demon Hunter. These changes underscore the awards’ commitment to sensitivity during a period of national mourning.
MAMA Awards 2025 Announces Numerous Artist Performance Cancellations for Day Two
On November 29, the MAMA Awards 2025 production team confirmed a series of performance cancellations for the event’s second day. Among the affected artists are Lee Han of BOYNEXTDOOR, Won Bin from RIIZE, Shin Yoo of Tours, Park Gun Wook, and Han Yoo Jin representing ZEROBASE ONE. These cancellations directly impact their much-anticipated collaborative cover performance as the Saja Boys, who were set to interpret a track from KPop Demon Hunters. This decision was made out of profound respect for the ongoing period of mourning, particularly considering the ‘grim reaper’ concept central to the Saja Boys’ scheduled act, which was deemed inappropriate given the tragic circumstances.
KOZ and PLEDIS Entertainment Confirm Their Artists’ MAMA Awards 2025 Appearances
In light of these developments, major entertainment agencies have issued statements confirming their artists’ withdrawal. KOZ Entertainment, representing BOYNEXTDOOR, released a statement acknowledging, “Due to the reduction in the MAMA Awards 2025 program, [BOYNEXTDOOR] will no longer be participating in today’s scheduled performance. We kindly ask for fans’ understanding.” Similarly, PLEDIS Entertainment confirmed, “[TWS] will not be participating in today’s scheduled performances,” indicating a broader impact across the artist lineup.
MAMA Awards 2025 Demonstrates Respect During Hong Kong’s Mourning Period
The comprehensive changes to the MAMA Awards 2025 program demonstrate a profound commitment to honoring the somber atmosphere pervading Hong Kong. This sensitivity comes in the wake of a devastating apartment fire, which led Hong Kong authorities to declare a three-day national mourning period from November 29 to December 2. To further express solidarity with the victims, artists conscientiously omitted any lyrics referencing fire from their performances. The traditional red carpet event, initially scheduled for the day prior, was also canceled. Furthermore, the MAMA Awards 2025 has reportedly made a significant contribution of HK$20 million (approximately 3.8 billion Korean Won) towards post-disaster recovery efforts, reinforcing their commitment to the community.
Summary
The MAMA Awards 2025 in Hong Kong significantly altered its program and performances following a devastating fire incident and subsequent national mourning period. Most notably, the highly anticipated Saja Boys’ cover stage of *KPop Demon Hunter* was cancelled for Day 2. This decision, affecting members from BOYNEXTDOOR, RIIZE, Tours, and ZEROBASE ONE, was made as their ‘grim reaper’ concept was deemed inappropriate given the tragic circumstances.
These extensive changes underscore the awards’ profound commitment to sensitivity and respect during Hong Kong’s three-day mourning period. Artists wore solemn attire and modified lyrics to avoid any reference to fire, and the traditional red carpet event was also canceled. The MAMA Awards 2025 reportedly contributed HK$20 million towards post-disaster recovery efforts, reinforcing their solidarity with the affected community.