2025 KGMA Announces Epic 'LINK to K-POP' Stages Featuring Stray Kids, IVE, and 5th Gen Boy Groups

The '2025 Korea Grand Music Awards with iM Bank' (2025 KGMA), set to take place on November 14th and 15th at the Incheon Inspire Arena, has unveiled its spectacular lineup and special stages under the theme 'LINK to K-POP.' This year's awards ceremony promises an unforgettable experience, connecting the history of K-pop across songs, stages, generations, and the genre itself.

On the second day, November 15th, dubbed 'Music Day,' a total of 16 teams are preparing unique performances. Following the announcement of Stray Kids' exclusive stage, never-before-seen on broadcast, all participating artists are gearing up for special performances exclusively for KGMA attendees, raising anticipation to an all-time high.

IVE is set to deliver a performance that solidifies their identity built around themes of 'self-love,' weaving together the narrative of their hit 'LOVE DIVE,' which swept music charts earlier this year, and their latest track 'Baddie,' showcasing a transformative spectrum.

KISS OF LIFE's Natty, who will be hosting 'Music Day,' will also present an MC Special stage, performing a medley of hits by top solo female artists. Known for her powerful performances, Natty plans to infuse her unique Y2K sensibility into the covers, setting a dazzling tone for the ceremony.

Representing the 5th generation of K-pop, boy groups such as IDIOTAPP, AHOP, CLOSE YOUR EYES, and KICKFLIP will perform special stages. They are set to cover hit songs from legendary groups spanning the 1st to 4th generations, embodying the 'LINK to K-POP' theme and fostering a sense of unity across K-pop generations.

Adding to the star power, popular actor Byeon Woo-seok will attend as an award presenter on November 15th. Following his breakout success in the drama 'Lovely Runner,' Byeon Woo-seok will make a special appearance at the KGMA despite his busy schedule filming the upcoming MBC drama 'A Grand Prince of the 21st Century.' All eyes will be on him to see which artist he will present with the prestigious trophy.

Now in its second year, the 2025 KGMA aims to provide a dazzling and diverse experience for global fans through stages that combine musical evolution with cutting-edge technology. The two-day event will feature 'Artist Day' on the 14th and 'Music Day' on the 15th, with a total of 31 teams including THE BOYZ, ATEEZ, Xdinary Heroes, Cravity, and more. Actress Nam Ji-hyun will return as the MC for both days, co-hosting with Irene (Red Velvet) on the first day and Natty on the second.

Netizens are buzzing with excitement over the 2025 KGMA lineup. Many are particularly looking forward to the 5th-gen boy groups covering older generation hits, commenting, 'A stage for generational unity, I'm already excited,' and 'A stage that will rewrite K-pop history.' The news of actor Byeon Woo-seok's attendance as an award presenter also drew cheers, with fans expressing eagerness for a chance to see him live.