CJ ENM announced Thursday that it will proceed with the 2025 MAMA Awards as planned in Hong Kong this weekend, despite a catastrophic apartment fire that has claimed dozens of lives in the city. The entertainment company, which operates one of K-pop's most prestigious annual music ceremonies, confirmed the show will take place Friday and Saturday at Kai Tak Stadium, marking the event's first return to Hong Kong in seven years.
The decision comes after a massive fire broke out at the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex on Wednesday, resulting in at least 55 confirmed deaths and leaving approximately 280 people still unaccounted for. The tragedy had raised significant questions about whether the high-profile music awards show would continue as scheduled.
In response to the disaster, CJ ENM emphasized that it is taking a more subdued approach to the production. "We are carefully preparing the overall stage setup and proceedings to ensure the performance conveys comfort and hope rather than merely dazzling production," the company stated. "We will make the 2025 MAMA Awards an event that demonstrates responsibility and does its utmost until the very end."
The company announced it will incorporate a moment of remembrance for the fire victims into the ceremony and will make a donation to support those affected by the tragedy. While CJ ENM did not provide specific details about program modifications, local media reports suggest that the traditional red carpet event and planned fireworks display are expected to be canceled out of respect for the victims.
The broader South Korean entertainment industry has rallied to support relief efforts for the Hong Kong fire victims. SM Entertainment announced a substantial donation of 1 million Hong Kong dollars (approximately $128,000) to the Hong Kong Red Cross to assist with firefighting operations, rescue efforts, and daily commodity support for those affected.
Several prominent K-pop acts have also pledged significant contributions. Girl group aespa committed to donating 500,000 Hong Kong dollars, expressing their condolences through their official Weibo account. "We express our deepest sorrow regarding this heartbreaking news," the group stated. "We hope this small contribution can help, and we pray for everyone's safety." Additionally, boy band Riize pledged 250,000 Hong Kong dollars, with the group expressing hope that their donation will support ongoing rescue operations and follow-up assistance efforts.
The 2025 MAMA Awards represents a significant milestone as it marks the ceremony's return to Hong Kong after a seven-year absence. The event typically draws major international attention and features performances by top K-pop artists, making CJ ENM's decision to continue with the show while adapting its tone and content a delicate balancing act between honoring commitments and showing appropriate respect for the ongoing tragedy.
