'2025 MAMA AWARDS' closed its second day in a subdued atmosphere, continuing to mourn the Hong Kong fire tragedy.
On the 28th and 29th, the 2025 MAMA AWARDS took place at the Hong Kong Kai Tak Stadium.
On the 26th, a large fire broke out at Wang Fuk Court, a 32-story residential high-rise APT. complex in the Tai Po district of northern Hong Kong, and with the ceremony two days away, the MAMA Awards also faced an emergency.
With the number of dead and injured continuing to rise, attention focused on whether the 2025 MAMA would be held, but CJ ENM decided to cancel the red carpet event while proceeding with the main awards ceremony as scheduled and broadcasting it live.
MAMA said, "We will add the 'Support Hong Kong' message to create a time to share sorrow and mourn together, and we will contribute through donations to support the victims," explaining that the 2025 MAMA AWARDS believes in the healing and solidarity power of music and is carefully preparing the overall stage composition and proceedings so the performances can convey consolation and hope rather than flashy production.
On the 28th, Park Bo-gum served as host and conveyed condolences and comfort, and at the ceremony on the 29th, Kim Hye-soo took on hosting duties and continued the spirit of mourning.
Wearing a black ribbon and a black suit, Kim Hye-soo appeared on stage and said, "Before we begin, I received unbearably heartbreaking news and my heart is heavy. I want to offer comfort to all those who suffered great wounds from this sudden accident and had to say goodbye to their loved ones. I fervently hope that a miracle still remains for us."
She continued, "2025 MAMA intends to support Hong Kong's recovery with the message 'Support Hong Kong.' Believing in the healing and solidarity power of music, we hope you will join us in sharing sorrow and offering comfort."
Afterwards, most of the presenters and winners also wore black outfits to express mourning and conveyed messages of consolation. Special effects such as flames and fireworks were not used in the performers' stages, and the originally scheduled performance by K-pop Demon Hunters' Lion Boys was also canceled.
In particular, Chow Yun-fat, who had earlier been reported as likely to be absent, drew attention by appearing as the presenter of the VISA artist of the year award. Chow Yun-fat said, "Before the award is presented, I have a small request for everyone. As a gesture of sincere support for the residents of Wang Fuk Court in the Tai Po area of Hong Kong, please all rise from your seats," and added, "To comfort those who were lost in the fire, let us take a moment of silent prayer."
The stage lights went out and Chow Yun-fat and the audience held a moment of silence to mourn the victims. Chow Yun-fat said, "I want to offer my sincere condolences to those who lost beloved family members and those who lost friends," and at times became choked up, saying, "I am grateful to MAMA for offering comfort and help in this way."
This year, MAMA chose mourning and solidarity over spectacle and proceeded with the ceremony in an unprecedented manner. With artists, fans and organizers united in honoring the victims and supporting recovery efforts, voices expressing hope that the event would offer a small consolation to Hong Kong society have continued.
[Photo] CJ ENM, broadcast screen capture
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