MAMA 2025 Hong Kong Moves Forward Amid Deep Mourning

MAMA 2025 proceeds amid Hong Kong’s fire tragedy.
Event tone shifts to tribute and respect.
Public debates focus on solidarity.

The 2025 MAMA Awards has become one of the most debated events of the year after Hong Kong was struck by a devastating fire at the Wong Fook Court apartment complex in Tai Po. The tragedy, which broke out on November 26, claimed dozens of lives, left hundreds missing, and plunged the city into grief. Online discussions exploded almost instantly, with many demanding the show be canceled while others emphasized that the artists should never be blamed for decisions made far above their control. Meanwhile, performers who had already arrived in Hong Kong were instructed to remain in their hotels as the entire script and production concept underwent urgent revisions to match the somber national atmosphere.

Why Cancellation Became Nearly Impossible and How Hong Kong Responded

More context emerged when Korean account loveabek shared detailed information from Hong Kong citizens regarding the situation. The event was hosted by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, which had already rolled out large-scale promotional campaigns and prepared accommodation packages for nearly 100,000 visitors, including foreigners traveling specifically for MAMA. A massive investment had also gone into showcasing Kai Tak Stadium, a newly built venue that cost more than 5 trillion won. Canceling the event at this stage would not only undermine the purpose of that investment but also cause severe financial damage.

If MAMA were canceled, Hong Kong would be required to pay more than 30 billion won in cancellation fees alone, and countless partner companies and personnel would face enormous losses. Hong Kong residents voiced concerns on social media that the blame should not fall on MAMA, as disasters are unpredictable and unavoidable. They expressed discomfort with the online atmosphere where foreign audiences, especially Koreans, seemed to criticize the organizers more than acknowledging the tragedy itself.

Hong Kong citizens also shared that forcing a cancellation under the current circumstances could lead to even more criticism and negative fallout. Since the Hong Kong side had already made its decision, many believed Korean netizens no longer needed to attack the event. Instead, they urged everyone to focus on the victims, extend condolences, and avoid turning the incident into a culture war.

As a result, the production team confirmed that the red carpet would be canceled, and the entire program would be reorganized with a calm and respectful tone. Presenters such as Yang Ziqing and Chow Yun Fat decided not to appear. Several stages and VCR sequences were being edited to remove any elements involving fire. The show would maintain its core identity but stripped of its usual extravagance. The concept has shifted toward tribute, solidarity, and comfort for Hong Kong residents.

“58 people died. This is so disrespectful.”

“Have some people started blaming the artists as if it were their fault? Someone did that yesterday.”

“Before yall mad, please read this first. Deep condolences for the victims.”

“I feel like the MAMA Awards will still go ahead, but they might turn it into a tribute.”

A Historic Tragedy, Industry Action, and Divided Global Reactions

The Wong Fook Court fire is now considered one of the worst residential fires in Hong Kong’s history. By the early hours of November 27, authorities had confirmed 44 deaths. During the 3 p.m. briefing, the number rose to 55, including a firefighter. At least 76 people were injured, and more than 200 remained missing. Over 341 emergency reports were filed. The building stands only 21 kilometers from Kai Tak Stadium, about a 20 minute drive, which intensified the shock for artists, staff, and fans gathered in the city.

In response, several entertainment companies and individuals began offering concrete support. SM Entertainment donated 1 million Hong Kong dollars to the Hong Kong Red Cross to assist rescue operations, emergency accommodations, and essential living supplies. Their decision drew praise for demonstrating genuine solidarity rather than symbolic concern.

Performers waiting in their hotels were notified that their scripts, lines, transitions, and even lyrics would be revised. Stages featuring fire imagery were removed. The production team emphasized that this year’s ceremony is no longer about spectacle but about healing, reassurance, and respect.

Despite strong criticism from some international fans, many Hong Kong citizens expressed frustration toward those who continued to attack MAMA rather than acknowledging the magnitude of the tragedy. They reiterated that the purpose now is to focus attention on the victims and prevent further casualties, not to create controversy over an event that cannot realistically be canceled.

“Seriously, this feels like a joke… Hong Kong is one of the places that buys so much idol merchandise and they’re not showing respect to all those people who died every day. Worse, it’s all for money and they’re already millionaires. How disappointing.”

“With 279 people still missing, they’re going ahead with a glamorous event and act like nothing happened?”

“I guess HK government doesn’t want this show to cancel.”

“Yikes.”

Another summary circulating online emphasized that MAMA 2025 is a major collaboration between Korea and Hong Kong. Since MAMA is an Asia-wide award show, Hong Kong had invested heavily to host it. The takeaway from locals is clear: do not nitpick the event itself, but show courtesy by focusing on the fire disaster and offering condolences.

MAMA 2025 will now unfold under a transformed identity, prioritizing empathy and solemnity. Although the event continues, the intention is not to overshadow the tragedy but to stand with Hong Kong through music and shared mourning. Amid debates that cannot be avoided, one truth remains: what matters most is compassion, unity, and unwavering attention to the victims and their families.

Source: MyDaily, Daily Sports