The performance of the South Korean boy band TXT at the 2025 MAMA Awards has drawn significant criticism, marking a controversial moment in the event’s history. What was anticipated to be a highlight for TXT turned into a polarizing spectacle, overshadowed by the performances of other artists and a torrent of negative feedback from fans and netizens alike.
This year’s MAMA Awards, held on November 28 and 29, featured various artists facing scrutiny, including G-Dragon, whose live vocal performance became a focal point of controversy. Stray Kids also faced backlash for their Daesang win. Despite the star-studded lineup, TXT’s performances were particularly criticized, with many expressing disappointment over their stage presence and overall delivery.
On the first night, TXT member Yeonjun performed solo, showcasing tracks “Coma” and “Talk to You.” However, the following evening, when the group regrouped for a full performance featuring “Upside Down Kiss” and “Beautiful Strangers,” reactions were far from favorable. Online discussions quickly labeled their performance as “dead last,” with many fans voicing their dissatisfaction.
A viral post on the Korean platform Pann encapsulated the sentiment, stating, “The gap between them and the other idols who performed today was huge.” This prompted further comments from netizens, some of whom admitted to being fans of TXT but still found their performance lacking. One user remarked, “I’m a TXT fan, but at this point, their bad performances just make me laugh.”
Criticism extended beyond performance quality. Some comments highlighted a perceived lack of growth in the group’s skills, suggesting they would struggle with choreography typically associated with more established groups such as BTS and SEVENTEEN. The sentiment was echoed by other users who expressed frustration with the band’s recent performances.
The backlash also included comparisons to other artists. One comment noted that Felix of Stray Kids “completely dominated this year’s MAMA” with his charisma, contrasting sharply with TXT’s perceived shortcomings.
In addition to performance critiques, TXT found themselves embroiled in discussions about artistic integrity, as allegations of concept plagiarism surfaced. This added fuel to the fire of discontent among fans and critics alike.
The MAMA Awards have long served as a platform for showcasing talent in the K-pop industry, but this year’s event has left many questioning the direction of certain artists. As fans eagerly await future performances, the pressure is mounting for groups like TXT to elevate their stage presence and meet the expectations of a discerning audience.
Overall, the 2025 MAMA Awards highlighted the intense scrutiny faced by K-pop artists and the high standards they are expected to uphold, particularly in a competitive environment where public perception can shift rapidly.