The Mnet Asian Music Awards (now shortened as MAMA) has come a long way since its inception in 1999 as the Mnet Music Video Festival. Initially launched to honor outstanding achievements in Korean music, it has grown into one of the most prominent and anticipated music award shows in Asia. Rebranded as MAMA in 2009, the event began expanding its reach beyond South Korea, staging ceremonies in various places such as Singapore, Macau, Hong Kong, Japan, and recently for the first time in Los Angeles. Each location has added its unique flair while maintaining MAMA’s reputation as a cultural phenomenon.

What sets MAMA apart is not only its celebration of music but also its ability to unite fans worldwide. On this special night, fans from across the globe come together—both in person and online—to celebrate their favorite artists, witness history-making performances, and experience the electrifying energy of K-Pop and Asian music. The show is renowned for its grand, theatrical stages, jaw-dropping visuals, and iconic collaborations, making it a must-watch event for music lovers everywhere. 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most iconic and breathtaking performances in MAMA history. While these selections are based on personal opinion and since we can’t cover every year or performance, these performances highlight the creativity, energy, and sheer talent that make MAMA one of the most anticipated nights in music.

2011 

Location: Singapore

At the 2011 MAMA in Singapore, 2NE1’s CL delivered an electrifying performance alongside the legendary Black Eyed Peas, creating a moment that captivated fans worldwide. Known for her fierce charisma and unmatched stage presence, CL took the stage blending her unique K-Pop flair with the globally recognized sound of the Black Eyed Peas. The collaboration included an unforgettable rendition of "Where Is The Love?" which symbolized the growing recognition of K-Pop on the global stage. This was a night that solidified MAMA as a platform for groundbreaking musical moments that unite artists and fans across the globe.

2012

Location: Hong Kong

PSY’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, marking a defining moment in K-Pop's global rise. Showcasing off his record-breaking hit "Gangnam Style," PSY delivered an energetic and comedic performance that had the entire audience on their feet, performing the now-iconic horse dance. By 2012, "Gangnam Style" had become a worldwide phenomenon, topping charts in over 30 countries and becoming the first video to reach one billion views on YouTube. His MAMA stage showcased his larger-than-life personality and the universal appeal of his viral hit, complete with grand visuals and a stage presence that blended humor and pure talent. 

2014

Location: Hong Kong

Performing their chart-topping hit "Good Boy" for the first time, the BIGBANG duo delivered a high-energy stage that perfectly captured their dynamic charisma and artistry. G-Dragon's razor-sharp raps and commanding stage presence, paired with Taeyang’s smooth vocals and fluid dance moves, created an electrifying synergy that kept the audience captivated. This performance didn’t just mark the debut of their hit song; it represented a turning point in their careers, proving that their combined artistry could push boundaries and set trends. 

2015

Location: Hong Kong

You can’t mention MAMA without bringing up the iconic Boys In Battle performance of BTS vs BlockB. In this electrifying face-off, both groups showcased their distinct styles, creating an unforgettable performance that pushed the boundaries of live shows. BTS brought their fiery energy with "Danger" while Block B exuded their signature boldness with "Her." The concept of a live battle between these two groups not only created something fun to see for the fans watching but also highlighted the diversity within K-Pop, blending hip-hop, pop, and rock influences in a way that had never been seen before on such a grand stage. 

2NE1’s performance at the 2015 MAMA was a surprise group performance that took fans by storm. The surprise stage featured a powerful medley of their iconic hits, including "I Am the Best" and "Fire" with the members—CL, Dara, Bom, and Minzy—delivering flawless vocals, fierce choreography, and unforgettable energy. Their performance was an explosive celebration of their legacy, with bold outfits and a dramatic set that amplified the power of their sound. The group’s ability to unite their fans in such an unexpected way made the stage even more special, creating a once-in-a-lifetime moment that highlighted their lasting impact on the K-Pop industry. 

2017

Location: Ho Chi Minh, Yokohama, & Hong Kong

The 2017 MAMA in Hong Kong saw an explosive collaboration between Dynamicduo, Jackson Wang, Mark Lee, Jooheon, and Vernon that became one of the most talked-about performances of the night. The stage, which brought together some of the biggest names in K-Pop, hip-hop, and idol groups, was a powerful display of rap, charisma, and chemistry. Dynamicduo, known for their seasoned rap skills, delivered a high-energy set that seamlessly blended with the fiery performances of Jackson, Mark, Jooheon, and Vernon, who each brought their unique styles and flair. Jackson’s undeniable stage presence, Mark’s smooth flow, Jooheon’s aggressive rap delivery, and Vernon’s effortless charisma created an electric atmosphere that captivated the audience. The performance was a bold statement of talent, unity, and creativity, showcasing the power of collaboration and leaving a lasting impact.

2019

Location: Nagoya

SEVENTEEN’s 2019 MAMA performance of "Fear" was an absolute standout, demonstrating the group's exceptional artistry and synchronization. The performance was intense from the very start, with SEVENTEEN’s powerful presence capturing the audience’s attention immediately. The stage was set with dark, moody lighting and dramatic visuals that complemented the song's intense themes of self-doubt and the fear of failure. "Fear" is a track that combines bold, intricate choreography with emotional depth, and SEVENTEEN nailed every aspect of it. Each of the 13 members brought their own unique energy, seamlessly flowing between intense dance sequences and emotionally charged moments. What truly made this performance so impactful was how the group used the power of their movements and expressions to reflect the emotion of the song—fear—while still showcasing their undeniable chemistry and unity.

2020

Location: South Korea

Taemin’s performance in South Korea was a testament to his artistry and ability to dominate the stage, even in the challenging circumstances brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. With the event being held virtually, the audience could only experience his performance through a livestream, but Taemin’s presence still felt larger than life. Performing his tracks "Criminal" and "IDEA (理想)," he captivated viewers with his flawless choreography, magical stage presence, and the raw emotion he poured into every movement. Even without the usual in-person crowd energy, he demonstrated a unique ability to bring a sense of intimacy and intensity to a virtual performance, proving that even without the physical energy of a live audience, his artistry could still create a powerful impact. 

2021

Location: South Korea

"Heung" is a concept in Korean culture, often described as a feeling of excitement, joy, and exuberant energy that comes from being fully present in the moment. It embodies a sense of spiritedness and passion, often expressed through music, dance, and social interaction. In the context of ATEEZ’s performance of "The Real (Heung ver.)" at the 2021 MAMA, "Heung" became more than just a theme—it was the driving force behind their performance, blending high-energy choreography with a celebration of traditional Korean culture. 

Wanna One's 2021 reunion performance was a truly emotional and nostalgic moment for both the group and their fans. After disbanding in 2019, the special reunion stage allowed the beloved group to come together for one last time as a full lineup, and it did not disappoint. The stage was visually stunning, with dynamic lighting and set designs that reflected the group’s vibrant energy and unique legacy. What made this performance especially moving was the emotional connection the members shared with each other and their fans. This performance felt like a celebration of the time they spent together as a group, their growth, and the lasting impact they made on K-Pop.

2023

Location: Tokyo

The "Wonder Stage" performance featuring YOSHIKI, Taehyun, Hueningkai, Myung Jaehyun, Anton, Han Yujin to "Endless Rain" was an unforgettable, emotional moment that captivated the entire audience. The collaboration between legendary musician YOSHIKI and rising K-Pop stars was a breathtaking fusion of classical and contemporary artistry, bringing a unique and beautiful interpretation of the iconic song. With YOSHIKI at the piano, the stage took on a dramatic, almost cinematic quality, as the powerful melodies of "Endless Rain" filled the atmosphere. Taehyun and Hueningkai (TXT), Jaehyun (BOYNEXTDOOR), Anton (RIIZE), and Han Yujin (ZEROBASEONE) brought an intensity to the performance with their deep emotional connection to the song, their heartfelt vocals and skill in playing different instruments blended seamlessly with the orchestral arrangement. The staging was minimalist but elegant, focusing the audience’s attention on the performers and the raw emotion conveyed through their voices, dancing, and musicality.

2024

Location: Los Angeles & Japan

KATSEYE's performance in Los Angeles marked a groundbreaking moment for both the group and the MAMA ceremony, as it was their first time taking the stage at MAMA but also the first time for the event to take place in the U.S. KATSEYE made a bold statement as they showcased their global appeal and versatility. The performance featured a mix of their high-energy dance routines with captivating visuals. Their stage presence was magnetic, effortlessly engaging the audience with their fierce moves and commanding vocals. What made the performance particularly special was the way KATSEYE connected with both local and international fans, bringing a fresh, dynamic energy to MAMA’s American debut.

This year's MAMA featured one of the most highly anticipated moments in K-Pop history: BIGBANG’s surprise reunion following their members' military completion, during G-Dragon's solo set. Fans had been eagerly waiting for the legendary group to reunite, and MAMA was the perfect stage for this monumental comeback. As G-Dragon took the spotlight for his solo performance, the atmosphere was electric, filled with anticipation for what was about to unfold. Just as his performance reached its peak, the familiar beats of BIGBANG’s iconic tracks filled the air, and the members made their surprise appearance once again.

Bruno Mars’ surprise appearance at the 2024 MAMA shocked not only the idols in the audience but also viewers at home and in the crowd. His unexpected appearance at the show left everyone in awe, as the globally renowned artist took the stage for a performance that seamlessly blended his signature funk and R&B style with Rosé’s K-Pop elements. Even though the performance had been pre-recorded, it was impossible to deny the energetic energy Bruno Mars and Rosé brought to the table. The catchy beat of the song had the entire crowd—idols and fans alike—dancing along, creating a playful atmosphere that felt as though it was happening live. 

As one of the breakout groups of the year, BOYNEXTDOOR brought a fresh and dynamic performance to the MAMA stage. They brought a laid-back yet confident energy, combining their signature smooth vocals with a natural stage presence that felt both playful and authentic. It wasn’t about flashy moves or over-the-top visuals; instead, they focused on letting their music and chemistry do the talking. The set was simple but impactful, with just the right amount of background visuals on the side. As they performed, you could feel their bond with each other and with the audience, something that you could feel through your phone screen watching at home. 

As we look back at the unforgettable performances at the Mnet Asian Music Awards over the years, it’s clear that the stage continues to be one of the most powerful platforms for artists to showcase their growth, creativity, and passion. From surprise reunions to groundbreaking collaborations, each performance tells a unique story and adds to the rich legacy of MAMA. Whether it’s the explosive energy of rookie groups or the iconic return of legends, these performances not only captivate audiences in the moment but also become defining moments in the careers of the artists themselves. With each year, MAMA raises the bar, setting new standards for what’s possible in music performance, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.

Which year was your favorite for MAMA performances? Share with us your thoughts by leaving a comment below or by reaching out on Instagram or X.

Edited by Hien Nguyen