In K-pop circles, particularly on platforms like K-Talk, a recurring sentiment often resurfaces during award season: “MAMA has always been harsh to mid-tier girl groups.” A list of surprising names has emerged over the years, proving just how elusive the MAMA stage can be even for groups with notable success and longevity.
Let’s take a look at some of the most-discussed girl groups that have never had a proper performance slot at the MAMA Awards, despite strong fandoms, viral moments, or even award wins.
Apink
Though veterans of the industry, Apink only attended MAMA twice in 2011 and 2013. Shockingly, they never performed during either appearance. Fans speculate this may be linked to the Mnet-IST Entertainment dispute around 2014, but even so, many feel the group deserved more recognition. “How can Apink never have had a stage?” remains a frequent complaint online.
AOA
Another unexpected case, AOA never made it to the main MAMA stage. Their only appearance was a red carpet performance in 2014, despite their widespread popularity during their peak years. This omission continues to baffle long-time fans.
EXID
Surprisingly, EXID has never been invited to MAMA at all no red carpet, and certainly no performances. Despite viral hits like “Up & Down”, they’ve remained completely off the MAMA radar.
STAYC
Even one of the most talked-about rookie groups in recent years, STAYC, has never been called to perform at MAMA. Theories suggest it may be related to past disputes between Mnet and High Up Entertainment around 2020. Still, fans argue their consistent digital charting and rising global popularity should have earned them a spot.
KISS OF LIFE
Despite gaining attention in 2023 for their fierce debut and strong concept, KISS OF LIFE has yet to receive a MAMA invitation. For a group hailed as the next rising act, this exclusion raises eyebrows.
tripleS
Perhaps the most baffling case: tripleS won Best New Female Artist in 2023 but weren’t invited to the ceremony. Instead, they recorded their award reaction video inside their company building, making headlines for one of the most awkward MAMA moments in recent memory.
Even Mamamoo, now considered industry giants, were left out of MAMA until 2018 the year they released Starry Night. Before that, fans joked they had to search hard for Mamamoo content during MAMA season, a drought that finally ended four years into their career.
And it’s not just girl groups mid-tier boy groups face the same cold treatment, though the issue often garners less attention.
Fan comments summarize the general sentiment:
- “So that’s why the big companies always win the awards.”
- “Apink being snubbed is just ridiculous.”
- “MAMA is losing credibility year by year.”
- “They favor global stats, so mid-tier groups naturally get ignored.”
- “Tired of MAMA just hyping their own artists and the big three.”
Despite the glitz of MAMA, the event’s lineup continues to fuel criticism for its perceived favoritism toward major agencies. Until changes are made, fans of smaller but beloved groups will likely keep asking the same question: Why are these talented acts still waiting for their MAMA moment?
Sources: theqoo
You must be logged in to post a comment.