Why do the MAMA Awards still exist despite its decreasing popularity and controversies? In an interview, the PDs in charge of the event explained their main goal.

MAMA Awards PDs React on Claim Event Isn't Receiving Much Attention Anymore

On December 12, the Korean media outlet Kookmin Ilbo met PDs Lee Young Joo and Shin Yoo Sun, the people behind the 2023 MAMA Awards.

On November 28 and 29, the ceremony was held at the Tokyo Dome in Japan. Despite the star-studded lineup, some K-pop fans weren't even aware of the 2-day event, while some decided to skip watching it.

Initially known as the Mnet Asian Music Awards, the event was rebranded as the MAMA Awards.

Unfortunately, K-pop fans assumed its popularity is not the same as it was. Some also implied that their excitement to watch the ceremony was not like before.

Regarding this, the PDs answered:

“We are not disappointed. In fact, it is not that interest has decreased, but as the number of YouTube and online video services (OTT) increases, there are more options to see the artists' special performances."

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They added:

"What we are after these days is being viral. That's why we are trying to create a stage wherein, when viewers and fans think of 'MAMA Awards,' they can recognize it as an awards ceremony with many legendary stages."

Why Is MAMA Awards Often Held Abroad? PDs Reveal Event's Aim Is K-pop Expansion

This year, it was the first K-pop awards ceremony to be held at the Tokyo Dome, and the producers explained that such attempt is an expression of their willingness to expand the base of K-pop by creating a stage that has never been seen before.

Throughout the interview, the two PDs emphasized that the "MAMA Awards'" main goal is to contribute to the global expansion of the K-pop industry; thus, the reason they often hold it abroad.

PD Lee stated:

"In the past, BTS RM said, 'LA KCON became the beginning of American fans recognizing us. I think it's right for us to go out (overseas) to provide opportunities for K-pop artists to meet many audiences and show such artists to global fans."

They added:

"All the artists are very sincere about the performance. (G)I-DLE also made a separate microphone for the MAMA stage. I saw the face of a member of Just B through the camera and I felt what he was thinking when I saw the eyes of 40,000 people, which made me cry."

Lastly, the PDs commented:

"I can feel that MAMA has become a brand and that K-pop has elevated its status. This is why we need to continue providing such global performances."

READ MORE: 2023 MAMA Awards Flopped According to K-pop Stans: 'The lineup was bad'

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Written by Eunice Dawson.