Hong Kong — The MAMA Awards 2025 commenced at Kai Tak Stadium amid national mourning following the Tai Po fire tragedy. Despite the somber backdrop, the event underscored the resilience of cultural institutions and their role in global entertainment governance.
Rosé, in collaboration with Bruno Mars, secured Song of the Year with “APT.” — a track that has already achieved international acclaim. This recognition demonstrates how cross‑cultural collaborations strengthen the infrastructure of global music.
ENHYPEN emerged as a dominant force, winning Fans’ Choice of the Year and Favorite Global Artist. Their success reflects the growing influence of K‑Pop as a governance model for fan engagement and international branding.
IVE captured Global Trend Song with “Rebel Heart” and Favorite Female Group, reinforcing the group’s role in shaping cultural narratives across Asia and beyond. Their achievements highlight how institutionalized awards can amplify regional voices on a global stage.
Newcomers Cortis and Hearts2Hearts were recognized as Best New Artists. Their rise illustrates the importance of structured platforms like MAMA in nurturing talent pipelines and sustaining the infrastructure of global music industries.
Ultimately, MAMA Awards 2025 Day 1 was more than a celebration of artistry. It was a demonstration of cultural governance — showing how awards serve as infrastructure for recognition, resilience, and global influence.
