K-pop’s most ambitious awards show just got even bigger. The 2025 Korea Grand Music Awards (KGMA) has unveiled its complete performer, MC, and presenter lineup—and it’s a star-studded spectacle featuring over 30 acts including Stray Kids, ATEEZ, IVE, BOYNEXTDOOR, and SMTR25.
Quick Facts About 2025 Korea KGMA
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | 2025 Korea Grand Music Awards |
| Dates | November 14-15, 2025 |
| Venue | Inspire Arena, Incheon |
| Day 1 Theme | Artist’s Day (November 14) |
| Day 2 Theme | Music Day (November 15) |
| MCs | Nam Ji-hyun (both days), Irene (Day 1), Natty (Day 2) |
| Total Performers | 30+ artists |
| Organizer | Ilgan Sports, Sports Daily, Creator Ring, DOD |
Two Nights, Two Distinct Vibes
The 2025 KGMA splits into themed nights, each offering a unique experience for K-pop enthusiasts worldwide.
Artist’s Day (November 14)
The opening night showcases performance-driven powerhouses including ATEEZ, THE BOYZ, BOYNEXTDOOR, FIFTY FIFTY, SMTR25, Xdinary Heroes, WOODZ, CRAVITY, INI, MEOVV, ALLDAY PROJECT, KiiiKiii, xikers, Park Seo-jin, and Lee Chan-won.
This lineup promises explosive choreography, live band stages, and experimental concepts. ATEEZ and THE BOYZ are expected to deliver their signature high-energy performances, while rising stars BOYNEXTDOOR and SMTR25 will showcase the next generation’s innovative approach to K-pop.
Red Velvet’s Irene joins actress Nam Ji-hyun as MC for this power-packed evening, bringing star quality to the hosting duties.
Music Day (November 15)
The second night elevates the energy with Stray Kids, IVE, SUHO (EXO), BTOB, LUCY, NEXZ, P1HARMONY, KISS OF LIFE, FROMIS_9, Jang Min-ho, CLOSE YOUR EYES, KICKFLIP, HEARTS TO HEARTS, UNIS, AIDID, and HOF.
Stray Kids and IVE—two of K-pop’s biggest global acts—will headline this blockbuster night. Veterans like SUHO and BTOB promise emotional, soulful stages, while rookie groups UNIS, IDID, and Kickflip make their prestigious KGMA debut.
KISS OF LIFE’s Natty steps in as Day 2 MC alongside Nam Ji-hyun, ensuring the hosting matches the performance intensity.
Star-Studded Presenters
The ceremony elevates its prestige with confirmed presenters including actors Ahn Hyo-seop, Byun Woo-seok, Moon Chae-won, Lee Se-young, Gong Seung-yeon, Seo Ji-hoon, Yeonwoo, Ong Seong-woo, Choi Soo-young, and Shin Seung-ho.
This blend of K-drama stars and K-pop idols creates crossover appeal, drawing audiences from both entertainment spheres.
Why KGMA Matters
Launched in 2024 to commemorate Ilgan Sports’ 55th anniversary, the Korea Grand Music Awards differentiates itself through comprehensive evaluation criteria combining expert judge assessments, digital music sales, album sales, and mobile fan voting.
The event is sponsored by iM Bank and supported by the Incheon Metropolitan City and Incheon Tourism Organization, positioning it as a government-backed cultural celebration. KT ENA will broadcast the ceremony, while VIVID STAGE handles domestic ticketing and Art Pump Factory manages international ticket sales.
For K-pop enthusiasts looking to explore more about the Korean entertainment landscape, check out our comprehensive coverage of trending K-pop news and must-watch Korean content at TechnoSports.
World-Class Production Values
Set the Stage coordinates event production, promising cutting-edge stage design at the state-of-the-art Inspire Arena. The 360-degree stage setup ensures breathtaking views from every angle, creating an immersive experience whether you’re attending in person or streaming from home.
Music chart data from Hanteo Chart, Genie Music, FLO, and Bugs ensures transparent, data-driven award decisions—a commitment that builds credibility in an industry sometimes criticized for opaque voting processes.
The Global K-Pop Phenomenon
With over 30 performers spanning generations—from established acts like Stray Kids and IVE to promising rookies like SMTR25 and MEOVV—the 2025 KGMA represents K-pop’s unprecedented global reach and domestic diversity.
The lineup balances boygroups, girl groups, co-ed acts, soloists, and bands, showcasing the genre’s versatility. International acts like INI (Japan’s rising group) further emphasize K-pop’s cross-border influence.
How to Watch and Attend
Tickets are available through VIVID STAGE for domestic fans and Art Pump Factory for international attendees. The event will broadcast on KT ENA, with international streaming details expected to be announced closer to the event dates.
Early ticket packages through platforms like Trazy offer convenience for overseas fans planning to attend in person at the Inspire Arena.
A Historic K-Pop Weekend
November 14-15, 2025, promises to be one of the most talked-about weekends in K-pop history. The combination of legendary acts, rising stars, world-class production, and a stunning venue creates the perfect storm for an unforgettable celebration of Korean music.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of veteran groups or discovering K-pop through newer acts, the 2025 Korea Grand Music Awards offers something spectacular for everyone. Mark your calendars—this is one event you won’t want to miss.
Stay updated on the 2025 Korea Grand Music Awards and comprehensive K-pop coverage at TechnoSports!
FAQs
Q: How can international fans vote for the 2025 Korea Grand Music Awards?
A: The official voting details will be announced on the KGMA official website closer to the event. Based on previous years, KGMA typically combines expert judge evaluations (40%), digital music performance (20%), album sales (20%), and mobile fan voting (20%). International fans can participate through the official voting platform once it opens, usually several weeks before the ceremony.
Q: Will the 2025 Korea Grand Music Awards be available to stream internationally?
A: Yes, KT ENA will broadcast the ceremony domestically on November 14-15, 2025. International streaming options are typically announced 1-2 weeks before the event through platforms like Wavve, TVING, or YouTube live streams. Check the official KGMA social media channels (@KGMA_en on X/Twitter) for confirmed international streaming partners as the dates approach.
