Fans Are Responding To Recent K-Pop Scandals Through MAMA 2014 Votes [Opinion]

The results from the first day of the Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA 2014) voting may reflect the response from fans who are supporting their favorite artists who have dealt with scandals in the past year.

2014 has been a difficult year for SM Entertainment’s EXO, with Chinese members Kris and Luhan departing to pursue solo careers. EXO has also become the subject of scrutiny surrounding the relationship between Baekhyun and Girls’ Generation Taeyeon. In response, their fandom EXO-L appears ready to demonstrate a unified voting force for MAMA 2014.

EXO were the youngest male group to win Album of the Year for their release "XOXO" at the 2013 Mnet Asian Music Awards.The group was nominated for Best Male Group but suffered a surprising loss to INFINITE.

On the first day of voting for MAMA 2014, EXO is leading in four key categories. 

EXO are currently in first place for Best Male Group for MAMA 2014 with 31% of the vote followed by Super Junior. EXO also in the lead for the Best Dance Performance Male Group category with INFINITE coming up in second place. INFINITE like EXO is highly regarded for their dance performances and choreography. EXO are also currently leading the Union Pay Artist of the Year and the Union Pay Song of the Year categories. 

Korean-American solo vocalist Ailee, who was the subject of a scandal involving the unauthorized disclosure of nude photos in 2013, has made a strong presence in the Best Female Artist, Best Dance Performance Solo, and Best Vocal Performance Female categories.

Fans of YG Entertainment’s 2NE1 have come together to show support for the group, helping 2NE1 gain the lead over Girls’ Generation in the Best Female Group category. However, Girls’ Generation remains closely behind 2NE1.

Rumors have recently surrounded 2NE1, following the announcement that CL would be releasing an American solo album. YG Entertainment also announced that 2NE1 would not be performing for the end of the year awards. Until further clarification is provided by YG Entertainment, this announcement would also mean that 2NE1 will not be performing at MAMA 2014.

Girls’ Generation remain the focus of scrutiny from fans and critics, following the departure of Jessica. Jessica departed from the group following the expiration of her contract, with conflicting statements issued from SM Entertainment and the artist regarding her departure. With a strong vote supporting Girls’ Generation for the Best Female Group award, it is apparent that SONEs (fans of Girls’ Generation) remain loyal to the group.

K-Pop fans in Southeast Asia have demonstrated their love for Korean music by maintaining the largest vote on the first day for MAMA 2014 at 56%. Fan interest outside of Korea will definitely be a focus for critics who have noted that the scandal-ridden industry of Korean pop entertainment could be on a decline.

Do you think that MAMA 2014 will help EXO reclaim their place at the top of K-Pop?

EXO stands the chance to win multiple awards at MAMA 2014. Is this a chance for EXO to reclaim lost ground? Have you been motivated to vote for your favorite artists because of recent scandals? Comment below.

Tags
EXO
EXO-K
MAMA
MAMA 2014
Mnet Asian Music Awards
SM Entertainment
YG Entertainment
2NE1
Girls Generation
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