K-pop’s biggest night at Seoul’s Gocheok Sky Dome turned into a landmark celebration for two of the industry’s most enduring figures. G-Dragon, the visionary leader of BIGBANG, and BLACKPINK star Jennie both made history at the 17th Melon Music Awards (MMA 2025)—one with a record-breaking sweep, the other with a first-of-its-kind victory.
The event, organized by Kakao Entertainment’s Melon, honored the artists who defined 2025’s music landscape through streaming success and fan engagement. Drawing more than 18,000 fans in person and millions online, it showcased the year’s most talked-about releases—and a convergence of art, fashion, and performance at its peak.
Fresh off his third solo album Übermensch, G-Dragon dominated the night, taking home seven awards including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year for Home Sweet Home. He also earned four additional honors: Top 10 Artist, Millions Top 10 Album, Best Solo, and Best Songwriter.
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“Every year is special, but the year of 2025 will be remembered as a particularly meaningful year for me,” G-Dragon said during his acceptance speech. “The title ‘Übermensch’ was like a personal mantra for me while creating this album. I want to thank all my fans, VIP, who are my source of inspiration.”
For Jennie, the night marked a milestone of her own. The BLACKPINK member became the first solo artist in Melon Music Awards history to win the Record of the Year (Daesang), thanks to her debut full-length Ruby. Its title track like JENNIE has been an unstoppable presence on Melon’s Top 100 since March.
Jennie also turned heads on the red carpet in a couture moment as striking as her win. Wearing a Georges Hobeika Fall 2025 ballgown, she paired a white corset bodice—adorned with crystal accents and lace-up detailing—with a sweeping black tulle skirt. Her understated emerald ring and low ponytail completed a look that balanced elegance with quiet power.
The “Mantra” singer continues to shape K-pop’s evolving celebrity culture, bridging versatility as both artist and global fashion ambassador. Beyond her music, she fronts major campaigns for Chanel, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Beats, reinforcing her singular influence in the intersection of sound and style.
MMA 2025 also spotlighted a new generation of talent. Rookie acts AllDay Project and Hearts2Hearts shared the New Artist of the Year prize, while IVE and BOYNEXTDOOR earned Best Group honors. Huntrix won Best OST for Golden from Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters, and indie sensation Hanroro received the Track Zero Choice award for her critically acclaimed EP Jamong Salgu Club (Grapefruit Apricot Club).
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“MMA 2025 was designed to showcase the achievements of artists to the world while providing the best experience for our loyal users,” said Joseph Chang, co-CEO of Kakao Entertainment. “Melon will keep its place as a leading K-pop festival by truly valuing the music and its fans.”
