2025 MAMA Awards to proceed in adjusted tone amid Tai Po tragic fire

Following the tragic fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, the 2025 MAMA Awards ceremony will adopt a more solemn tone to honor the victims. The organizers have confirmed that renowned actors Michelle Yeoh Choo Kheng and Chow Yun-fat will attend the event, despite earlier speculation regarding their potential withdrawal from participation.

MAMA, one of the most anticipated events in K-pop, is set to return to Hong Kong after seven years. Following an emergency meeting held by officials, it has been confirmed that the awards ceremony will proceed as scheduled from November 28 to 29. 

The organizing team has discussed modifying the awards show to focus on “offering comfort and mourning for the fire victims”. 

Sources initially indicate that the attendance of Yeoh and Chow, who were set to be award presenters, is uncertain. However, the organizer confirmed with Sing Tao Daily -- the sister publication of The Standard -- that Yeoh and Chow will be there in the event.

To maintain sensitivity, the ceremony will feature adjusted stage designs and performance procedures. Notably, flame effects and large-scale special effects will be canceled from the performances. 

Additionally, the red carpet event scheduled for tomorrow will be canceled, and a moment of silence will be added at the opening of the show.

Although the show will be recorded as planned, it will air at a later date. 

It is also reported that girl group MEOVV’s performance of “Burning Up” may also be canceled due to concerns regarding the song’s lyrics. 

Reactions from Korean netizens have been mixed; while many argue that MAMA should be canceled in light of the serious fire, others suggest that the financial losses for overseas audience members in terms of flights and hotel bookings should be considered.