K-pop icon G-Dragon not only delivered a show-stopping performance but also celebrated a meaningful award win at the 2024 MAMA Awards Japan. Held on November 23 at Kyocera Dome Osaka, this marked G-Dragon’s first appearance at MAMA in nine years, and he was honored as the inaugural recipient of the Music Visionary of the Year award.

The newly established award celebrates trailblazing artists who have made significant contributions to the K-pop industry through musical innovation and a pioneering spirit. As a signature accolade embodying MAMA’s legacy, the Music Visionary of the Year award shines a spotlight on those who have redefined boundaries and inspired the K-entertainment landscape.

With a light stick in hand, G-Dragon took the microphone and opened his speech by saying, “It’s been a while, MAMA. It seems I’ve received a meaningful award because they decided to distribute the trophies fairly among us kids.” The comment humorously referenced a line from one of his previous MAMA performances where he famously criticized the awards system, earning cheers from fans who appreciated the nod to his past.

He continued, “Personally and as a group, today is a meaningful day. It’s been seven years since I last performed, and it’s been 17 years since I first appeared at MAMA in 2007. Thank you for giving me an award that will remain a beautiful memory on this special day.”

G-Dragon then expressed his gratitude to a long list of supporters, saying, “There are so many people I need to thank. From Yang Hyun Suk and the YG Family to my new family at Galaxy Corporation and BLACK, as well as my beloved BigBang members—I’m so grateful.”

He also took a moment to thank his fans, the VIPs, calling them the ‘golden lights’ who made his triumphant return possible. He added with a playful tone, “I’m not sure if this is a one-time award, but I’ll make sure not to miss it next year either.”

G-Dragon’s performance and heartfelt acceptance speech captured the essence of why he remains one of K-pop’s most revered figures. His return to MAMA, both on stage and as an award winner, marked a historic moment, reaffirming his position as a cultural pioneer and beloved artist.