The upcoming 2025 MAMA Awards are gearing up to deliver a massive spectacle of music, culture, and creativity under the theme of “K-Excitement” (UH-HEUNG). The annual K-pop extravaganza, organized by CJ ENM, will take place on November 28 and 29 at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong, marking another milestone for Asia’s biggest music celebration.
A Celebration of “UH-HEUNG”
During the press conference held at the CJ ENM Center Talent Studio in Seoul, Business Division Director Park Chan-wook, PD Lee Young-joo, and PD Ma Du-sik shared exciting details about this year’s show.
The concept slogan UH-HEUNG represents self-acceptance, diversity, and joy in one’s individuality — an idea that reflects K-pop’s growing influence across the globe.
Special Stages and Star-Studded Collaborations
PD Ma Du-sik revealed that this year’s event will feature several collaboration stages never seen before. The Beomjeop team from “World of Supa” will deliver a powerful performance, while host Park Bo-gum is expected to make a surprise stage appearance.
In addition, members of Boynextdoor, Kortis, and Treasure will team up for a special “K-Hip” collaboration under the theme K-Heung, blending various musical styles and cultures.
Actress Kim Hye-soo, who will host the second night, will also take part in the opening act for Chapter 2, performing alongside Stray Kids’ Felix, ZeroBaseOne’s Sung Han-bin, and Supa’s Kyoka.
Fans can also look forward to an exclusive partnership with Netflix’s animated project “K-Pop Demon Hunters,” which will bring to life an innovative performance blending animation and live-action. PD Ma teased that a duel between “Saja Boyz” and “Huntrix” will be a major highlight, though the final lineup remains under wraps.
Park Bo-gum and Kim Hye-soo as Hosts
Park Bo-gum will once again host Chapter 1 (Day 1), continuing his long association with the MAMA Awards since his debut as MC in 2017. This year marks his seventh time hosting the event. In a recorded video message, Park expressed his excitement about returning to Hong Kong, saying,
“We plan to deliver a performance full of energy and emotion — something that only MAMA can offer. I’m preparing a special surprise for the audience.”
Meanwhile, Kim Hye-soo will take over as host for Chapter 2 (Day 2). Known for her three-decade-long stint as MC of the Blue Dragon Film Awards, Kim will be hosting a music awards show for the first time.
PD Lee Young-joo shared how the casting came about, saying,
“I’ve wanted to cast Kim Hye-soo for years. After she wrapped up her work with the Blue Dragon Awards, I felt this was the right time. She has always believed in the power of music and how it can move people — this collaboration feels destined.”
Final Words
With Park Bo-gum’s charm, Kim Hye-soo’s grace, and spectacular cross-genre performances, the 2025 MAMA Awards promise to deliver a global celebration of K-pop unlike any other. From experimental collaborations to high-concept visuals, this year’s show aims to redefine what “K-excitement” truly means.
