For K-Pop fans and artists alike, the most anticipated year-end event is no other than the award shows that celebrate the amazing musical achievements throughout the year and showcase exclusive, one-of-a-kind performances crafted just for the occasion. Among these, the MAMA Awards stand out as a prestige and global stage many K-Pop acts dream of gracing. For the first time in history, MAMA took place in the United States on November 21 for its first out of three ceremonies at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. The inaugural ceremony features a star-studded lineup of iconic household names and rising rookies, creating a night where the award truly lives up to its motto: music makes one. With a night packed full of memorable moments, here are some highlights of the MAMA Awards in LA:

K-Pop Song Tribute Opening Sequence

The opening stage of MAMA in L.A. was filled with nostalgia and energy as fifth generation K-Pop acts paid tribute to their seniors, performing iconic tracks that have shaped the genre's global breakthrough. TWS delivered a dazzling rendition of BTS's "Dynamite," ILLIT charmed the audience with their take on TWICE's "Heart Shaker," and RIIZE electrified the crowd with their powerful cover of NCT 127’s "Kick It." 

What made these performances even more significant was their stage: the United States, a testament to K-Pop’s growing influence on the global music scene. Seeing these rookies perform songs by artists who played a crucial role in breaking barriers and introducing Western audiences to K-Pop on an international stage felt like a full-circle moment, solidifying K-Pop's legacy and bright future.

Rookies Rocked The Global Stage

The MAMA in L.A. lineup features an impressive roster of rising stars. Bringing a throwback hip-hop vibe, the girl group Young Posse delivered high-energy performances of “ATE THAT” and “XXL,” highlighted by a freestyle rap interlude from member Sunhye. “Best New Female Artist” winner ILLIT transported the audience to a whimsical, butterfly-filled land by arriving on a sketched-out pegasus. The girls performed "Cherish (My Love)" and their iconic debut song "Magnetic." In their winner’s speech later on, the members got choked up about receiving such a prestigious award and performing on their dream stage.

Pledis Entertainment's boy group TWS claimed two major awards of the night — “Best New Male Artist” and “Best Dance Performance Male Group” — and delivered a stage that showcased their undeniable talent and charisma. The six members took on a school-themed concept and performed "Oh Mymy: 7s" and "Plot Twist." In an interview from his audience seat, member Dohoon mentioned being inspired by their seniors SEVENTEEN who also used tables in their first MAMA performance back in 2015.

It’s not a surprise that RIIZE bagged the “Favorite Male Global Performer” award of the night as they received roaring screams from the crowd for their appearance at the show. In a press conference held earlier in the day, member Anton expressed the group’s deep connection to the city of Los Angeles, where the award show is held, as it was also where they shot their first music video and had their fan-con tour.

Wonbin and Shotaro kicked off RIIZE’s performance set with a pair dance number, embodying the sun and the moon concept. The rest of the group soon joined them on stage, delivering a powerful performance of "Get a Guitar" and "Boom Boom Bass" with a nod to the King of Pop Michael Jackson.

Special collaboration stages

KATSEYE x L.A. Rams Cheerleaders

Global girl group KATSEYE brought a touch of L.A. on stage with them as they collaborated with the Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders for their performance of “Debut” and “Touch.” Although member Manon was absent due to illness, the rest of the girls made sure the vacant spot on stage was filled with seamless coordination. Dressed in stylish white and gold cheer uniforms paired with personalized varsity jackets for each member, they gave an unforgettable stage that is Superbowl halftime show-worthy. 

J.Y. Park x Anderson .Paak

J.Y. Park might run one of the most successful Korean entertainment companies in the world, but his passion for music also shows through the energy he brings on stage while performing. In an East-meets-West collaboration, he teamed up with Grammy-award-winning singer and producer Anderson .Paak for the final performance of the night. 

During the press conference earlier that day, J.Y. Park hinted at the collaboration stage by emphasizing the word “live.” With JYP on the keyboard and .Paak on drums, backed by a full live band and dancers, the duo got the audience off their seats and immersed themselves in the music. The “Inspiring Achievement Award” winner performed a medley of his hits while .Paak had his shining moments during the drumming solo.

In its twenty-fifth anniversary, the MAMA Awards continues to broaden its influence and reach new audiences globally. Los Angeles serves as the perfect hub for this milestone celebration and there’s hope that U.S. fans can continue to celebrate their favorite K-Artists’ achievements when MAMA returns to the States in the years to come.