
Korea's top entertainment and sports newspaper, Ilgan Sports, is hosting the '2025 Korea Grand Music Awards with iMBank' (2025 KGMA), which will take place from November 14 to 15 at the Inspire Arena in Incheon. This year's KGMA, under the theme 'LINK to K-POP,' will feature various stages connecting songs, performances, generations, and the history of K-pop.
On the second day, November 15, a total of 16 teams will present unique performances. Notably, Stray Kids will unveil a stage never before shown on broadcast, and all participating artists will prepare special performances exclusively for the KGMA audience.
IVE will emphasize their independent identity through the 'IVE Special' performance at the '2025 KGMA.' They plan to organically express songs including 'Rebel Heart,' which achieved a perfect all-kill on domestic music charts earlier this year, and 'XOXZ,' showcasing a distinctive transformation. Drawing on diverse stage experiences such as Lollapalooza, IVE is expected to demonstrate the pinnacle of the 'IVE Syndrome.'
The host for Music Day will be Natti of Kiss of Life. Natti will perform hit songs by the country's top solo female artist during the MC Special stage. Known for her powerful performances earning her the nickname 'Hot Girl,' she is set to deliver an unprecedented solo performance. This stage is anticipated to be as intense as Winter of aespa's 'Spark' performance last year when she served as MC.
The representative 5th generation K-pop boy groups debuting this year will present a special stage at the '2025 KGMA.' IDIT, Ahob, Close Your Eyes, Kickflip, and others will cover hit songs from groups representing generations 1 through 4, from H.O.T. to Stray Kids, infusing their passion into each performance. They aim to embody the meaning of connecting K-pop's past and present, achieving a grand generational unification.
Byun Woo-seok will appear as an award presenter on November 15 at the '2025 KGMA.' Since rising to stardom with the tvN drama 'Seonjae Upgo Twieo' last year, he has dominated various advertising markets and is currently busy filming the upcoming MBC drama '21st Century Daegun Buin.' Attention is focused on which artist Byun Woo-seok will present the prestigious trophy to.
Now in its second year, KGMA plans to offer a spectacular and diverse experience to fans worldwide through stages combining musical evolution and the latest technology. The event is divided into 'Artist Day' on November 14 and 'Music Day' on November 15, featuring a total of 31 teams including The Boyz, Miyao, Park Seo-jin, Boy Next Door, Psycus, I.N.I, ATEEZ, Xdinary Heroes, All Day Project, WOODZ, Lee Chan-won, CRAVITY, Kiki, Fifty Fifty, SMTR25, and more.
Actor Nam Ji-hyun will serve as MC for both days, continuing from last year. On the first day, she will co-host with Irene (Red Velvet), and on the second day, with Natti. KGMA is hosted by Ilgan Sports and jointly organized by the KGMA Organizing Committee, Creatoring, and D.O.D., with support from Incheon Metropolitan City and the Incheon Tourism Organization. iMBank participates as the title sponsor, and KT ENA is the broadcasting partner and main broadcaster. Music and album data are provided by Hanteo Chart, Genie Music, Flo, and Bugs, with production handled by Set The Stage. Overseas inbound ticketing is managed by Noldun Oppa and Art Firm Factory, while domestic ticket reservations are conducted through Big K Pass.