The organizers of the 2025 MAMA AWARDS, CJ ENM, issued an official statement addressing the continuation of the ceremony in Hong Kong following a devastating local tragedy.
The decision came after a massive fire broke out in an apartment complex in Hong Kong on November 26, 2025, resulting in a significant loss of life, with reports confirming at least 50 fatalities and hundreds of people still missing as of the following day, November 27.
Expression of Condolences and Commitment to Aid
The music ceremony, one of the biggest annual events in the K-Pop calendar, was scheduled to be held on November 28 and 29 at the Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong.
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Following conflicting public reports about potential cancellations or postponements, CJ ENM released a definitive official announcement on the evening of November 27.
The statement began by offering profound sympathies:
“We express our deepest condolences to those who lost their lives in the fire accident in Hong Kong.”
The organizers also extended “heartfelt sympathy to all those, including the bereaved families, who are experiencing hardship through great loss and anxiety.”
This immediate expression of humanity and solidarity set the tone for the difficult decision to proceed with the event.
To actively support the affected community, the MAMA AWARDS announced their firm intention to “contribute our efforts through donations to support the victims” of the devastating fire, affirming their role as a responsible global organization.
A Shift in Focus: Healing Through Music
Acknowledging the sensitive environment, the statement detailed how the ceremony itself would be adapted to reflect the somber mood of the host city.
The MAMA AWARDS asserted their foundational belief in “the power of music to heal and unite.”
In light of this, the organizers committed to integrating a “Support Hong Kong” message into the broadcast to create a time for sharing in the sorrow and commemoration.
Furthermore, they announced a crucial change in the show’s artistic direction, stating,
“We are carefully preparing the overall stage composition and proceedings to ensure that it becomes a ceremony that conveys comfort and hope, rather than just dazzling productions.”
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This shift indicates a deliberate move to prioritize emotional resonance and respect over spectacle, aligning the global event with the community’s need for solace.
Concrete Changes: Cancellation of the Red Carpet
To reflect their commitment to a respectful tone, a key decision was made and announced immediately following the official statement: the cancellation of the red carpet event.
The red carpet is a traditionally extravagant component of any major awards show, known for its focus on celebrity fashion and celebratory atmosphere.
By canceling this portion of the show, which typically precedes the main ceremony, the MAMA AWARDS made a visible, symbolic gesture to eliminate the element of lavish spectacle that would have been inappropriate during a time of widespread mourning.
The announcement was clearly communicated via social media, confirming the immediate cancellation of the red carpet.
Crucially, the statement confirmed that the main awards ceremony will still be broadcast live as planned on November 28 and 29.
The organizers concluded by promising to be “a responsible event that does its utmost until the very end,” ensuring the continuation of the awards while upholding a standard of community respect and support for the victims.
