A legendary performance fit for the king of K-pop
For K-pop fans, G-Dragon and Taeyang’s iconic MAMA 2014 stage remains unforgettable. At the time, G-Dragon shook the industry with a scathing rap criticizing the awards show itself, accusing MAMA of handing out awards in an “attendance award” fashion. The line “It’s been a while, Mom. It seems like you’ve already got the big prizes lined up. Everyone gets a share, so there’s no need to fight” became legendary, cementing his reputation for boldness and authenticity.
Following that controversial performance, MAMA and YG Entertainment appeared to be at odds. For a decade, YG artists have struggled to win at MAMA, culminating in public tensions such as BLACKPINK’s sidelining in 2017.
However, MAMA eventually sought reconciliation with G-Dragon, acknowledging his unparalleled influence. This year, G-Dragon’s performance wasn’t just a comeback: it was a revival of MAMA’s golden era.
G-Dragon’s performance, introduced by actress Kim Tae-ri, ignited the venue with his magnetic presence. Fans transformed the blue-themed sea into a bright golden tribute, mirroring BIGBANG’s iconic crown-shaped light stick. Opening with the emotional “Untitled, 2014,” G-Dragon transitioned into “Power” with the resonant line “Guess who’s back? He’s our boy, GD,” affirming his unshakable legacy.
Dressed in a striking pink suit with red hair and a crown, G-Dragon embodied his nickname: King of K-pop. The performance summed up his journey from young dreamer to undisputed king of K-pop, crowned by the symbolic title “Übermensch”. This term, meaning “superhuman”, resonates with themes of transcendence of adversity and self-mastery, likely alluding to G-Dragon’s upcoming album.
Additionally, the three members of BIGBANG—G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung—also reunited to perform “Home Sweet Home”, their first song as three members of BIGBANG, marking an emotional homecoming for the VIPs. They then lit up the stage with “Bang Bang Bang” and “Fantastic Baby,” evoking the explosive “MADE” era. This mini-concert within MAMA, which received explosive reactions from all the celebrities attending the show – from Kim Tae-ri and Ahn Jae-hyun to SEVENTEEN and aespa, has become a fiery testament to their legacy.
BIGBANG turned MAMA into their “mini concert.”
Because G-Dragon wasn’t the closing act
Traditionally, a legend like G-Dragon would close the show. However, his performance was strategically placed during the transition phase ahead of the winners of this year’s Daesang (grand prize) awards – aespa and SEVENTEEN.
As the winner of the Daesang “Song of the Year” award, aespa delivered a futuristic medley of hits, showcasing impeccable vocals and captivating choreography. Meanwhile, “Album of the Year” and “Artist of the Year” winners, SEVENTEEN, concluded the evening with cinematic performances of their latest hits, continuing their legacy as top-tier live artists.
By stepping aside, G-Dragon allowed these younger groups to shine, especially as the two groups had entered a new phase in their careers.
However, the male idol’s presence and performance remained the highlight of MAMA 2024, affirming his status. His stage energized the event, setting the tone for aespa and SEVENTEEN to deliver breathtaking finales.
In doing so, G-Dragon proved that he doesn’t need to be the “lookout” to command reverence.
Source: K14
