For the first time ever, the MAMA Awards are heading to the U.S., taking over Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre on November 21. Known as one of the biggest stages in K-pop, the MAMA Awards, hosted by CJ ENM, aims to bridge global music with K-pop in an exciting night of unique collaborations. Fans can look forward to performances from Anderson .Paak with J.Y. Park, plus an appearance by KATSEYE alongside the Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders.

A highlight of the night is sure to be Grammy-winner Anderson .Paak performing with K-pop legend J.Y. Park. With Anderson recently taking on a K-pop-themed role in the film 'K-Pops!,' he’s no stranger to the genre, and he’s expressed his admiration for K-pop’s high energy and creativity. Their set promises to merge blues, funk, and the distinct styles of both artists. J.Y. Park described the performance as “the best blues funk set in MAMA history,” with Anderson on drums and himself on piano. Anderson added, “It’s an honor to share the stage with someone as influential as J.Y. Park.”

In another unique performance, KATSEYE will be joined by the Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders. This performance will blend K-pop’s energetic dance moves with the cheerleading style familiar to American audiences, offering a fresh twist on both styles.

The Los Angeles ceremony will feature performances from emerging K-pop groups like ILLIT, RIIZE, TWS, and YOUNG POSSE. The awards will continue at the KYOCERA DOME OSAKA in Japan on November 22 and 23, featuring more big-name K-pop acts like aespa, (G)I-DLE, MEOVV, ZEROBASEONE, BIBI, BOYNEXTDOOR, ENHYPEN, IVE, and TOMORROW X TOGETHER. Additionally, G-Dragon is set to return to the MAMA stage after a nine-year absence. These back-to-back events highlight CJ ENM’s goal of showcasing K-pop as a truly global genre.

Actor Park Bo Gum, widely recognized for his role in 'Reply 1988,' will host the event, adding a familiar face for fans of Korean entertainment. Sponsored by Visa, the 2024 MAMA Awards promises to celebrate music that transcends borders, and fans can tune in worldwide via Mnet, Mnet K-POP’s official YouTube channel, or Mnet Plus.

With a 25-year legacy of championing K-pop, MAMA continues its mission to bring Korean music to a global stage—now, for the first time, with a U.S. debut that’s set to reach audiences like never before.

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