The 2025 MAMA Awards has cancelled its planned red carpet event in Hong Kong amidst a deadly fire in the Taipo district that has left the city in mourning. Organizers announced that while the main ceremony would proceed as scheduled, the event would undergo significant changes out of respect for the victims and the ongoing tragedy.

On the 27th, MAMA Awards organizers released a statement expressing their condolences: “We offer our deepest sympathies to those who lost their lives in the fire incident in Hong Kong. Our heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families and to everyone experiencing profound loss and anxiety.”

The devastating fire broke out in the Wong Fuk Court apartment complex in Taipo on the 26th, claiming at least 94 lives, including a firefighter, and injuring over 50 people who are currently being treated at local hospitals. With about 200 people still unaccounted for, the death toll may continue to rise. In response to the rapidly escalating crisis, Hong Kong authorities raised the emergency alert to the highest level, Grade 5, casting uncertainty over large-scale events in the city, including the MAMA Awards.

Despite the tragedy, the MAMA Awards team opted to proceed, stating, “By adding a message of support for Hong Kong, we hope to share in the grief and provide a time to honor the victims. Donations will also be made to support those affected.” The organizers further commented, “We believe in the power of music to heal and unite, and are preparing the entire ceremony with great care to deliver comfort and hope rather than extravagant spectacle. We sincerely hope our performances bring even a small measure of solace and courage to all.”

According to CJ ENM, all fire-related elements within the production have been revised or removed. Notably, a previously announced stage featuring the 'Reaper Boys,' a collaboration tied to the Netflix animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters, will also undergo modifications.

In addition, renowned Hong Kong actors Chow Yun-Fat and Michelle Yeoh, who were scheduled to appear as presenters, have decided to withdraw from the event.

The 2025 MAMA Awards will take place as planned on November 28 and 29 at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium, with live broadcasts available across platforms such as Mnet Plus and various other digital channels.

Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”

Photo=CJ ENM