Behind the Scenes: What You Missed at the 2024 MAMA Awards

The Inaugural MAMA Awards in the U.S.: A Night of K-Pop Glory

For the first time in its illustrious 25-year history, the MAMA Awards made its grand debut in the United States, captivating fans and artists alike at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on November 21, 2024. This landmark event, broadcast live and streamed exclusively on Samsung TV Plus, marked the beginning of a three-day celebration of K-pop, featuring chart-topping groups, legendary musicians, and a whirlwind of excitement that had fans glued to their screens.

A Star-Studded Red Carpet

The day began with a media event where reporters had the opportunity to engage with prominent figures in the K-pop industry, including J.Y. Park and the rising group RIIZE. The excitement escalated as stars graced the red carpet, showcasing their dazzling outfits and unique styles. Billboard caught up with artists like TWS, Young Posse, ILLIT, and KATSEYE, as well as the evening’s charismatic host, Park Bo Gum. As the ceremony commenced, performances lit up the stage, with J.Y. Park and KATSEYE bringing special guests to join in the festivities. The night was filled with awards, with J.Y., RIIZE, TWS, and ILLIT taking home coveted trophies.

Behind the Scenes: Insights and Whispers

While fans were engrossed in the live broadcast, Billboard was on the ground, capturing moments that went unnoticed on screen. From whispers about a new boy band to private interactions between artists, the atmosphere was electric. J.Y. Park shared insights about his vision for the future of K-pop, emphasizing the importance of localized acts to expand the genre’s global reach. He revealed plans for the girl group VCHA, created through the reality show “A2K,” aiming to differentiate them from traditional K-pop artists.

The Dynamics of Seating Arrangements

One of the quirks of the night was the fluid seating arrangements among the K-pop acts. Unlike typical American award shows, where seat fillers are common, the K-pop stars frequently shifted seats to accommodate performances. This dynamic created an engaging atmosphere, with artists mingling and supporting one another throughout the event.

Celebrity Interactions and Memorable Moments

The night was not without its memorable interactions. *NSYNC member Lance Bass, who presented the award for Favorite Global Performer Male, embraced the MAMA experience, sharing respectful moments with RIIZE and capturing photos with Park Bo Gum. Meanwhile, the audience witnessed a heckler shout at Dustin Hoffman as he presented the Best New Male Artist award, adding an unexpected twist to the evening.

RIIZE’s Emotional Acceptance Speech

Amidst the celebrations, RIIZE faced a bittersweet moment as fans rallied outside the venue in support of former member Seunghan, who would not be returning to the group. Inside, the remaining members acknowledged the fan struggle during their acceptance speech, expressing gratitude and promising to continue working hard for their supporters.

A Unique Collaboration: KATSEYE and the Rams Cheerleaders

KATSEYE delivered a high-energy performance, collaborating with the Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders. Their dynamic routine not only showcased their talent but also fostered a connection that extended beyond the stage, as cheerleaders joined the group in the audience to enjoy the rest of the ceremony.

TWS Brings Local Talent to the Stage

Rookie group TWS wowed the audience with a school-themed performance that featured local marching band members from Tetlaff Junior High. The young musicians expressed their excitement about participating in such a unique event, highlighting the inclusivity and opportunities that the MAMA Awards brought to the local community.

The Afterparty: A Star-Studded Celebration

As the awards concluded, the festivities continued at Andy’s, a popular West Hollywood bar owned by Anderson .Paak. J.Y. Park, along with other stars like Eric Nam and K-pop diva Sunmi, celebrated the night’s success, mingling and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Looking Ahead: New Beginnings for JYP Entertainment

The night concluded with a teaser for J.Y. Park’s upcoming boy band, KickFlip, set to debut in 2025. The excitement surrounding this new group was palpable, with industry insiders and fans eagerly anticipating their arrival.