The first-ever Korea Grand Music Awards (KGMA) will reach fans across 200 countries with a live broadcast via the streaming platform Kiswe, offering viewers a unique chance to experience one of Korea's premier music awards ceremonies on a global scale. According to the KGMA Organizing Committee, the event will be held at the Inspire Arena in Incheon on November 16-17, featuring real-time subtitles in Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese. Livestream tickets can be purchased through the KGMA Kiswe website starting at 7 PM KST on November 4.

Kiswe, renowned for hosting BTS’s record-breaking “Bang Bang Con: The Live” in 2020, brings extensive experience in global digital concerts. During that event, over 750,000 fans from 107 countries tuned in, setting a Guinness World Record. Additionally, Kiswe has live-streamed concerts for popular groups like Seventeen and ENHYPEN, enhancing its reputation for delivering high-quality online concert experiences.

The KGMA will recognize excellence in K-pop, trot, band, and solo categories, honoring artists and songs that have captivated audiences over the past year. The show will be directed by Han Dong-chul, CEO of Funky Studio, known for producing Mnet's top awards shows like the Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA) and music survival programs such as Show Me the Money and Produce 101. Han’s vision brings fresh energy to the ceremony, which promises a top-tier production and a dynamic viewing experience.

The judging panel includes prominent figures in the Korean music industry, such as producer Kim Hyung-seok, composers Joo Young-hoon and Brave Brothers, and celebrated singers like Park Hak-gi and Lee Seung-chul. Esteemed critics and artists, including lyricists Kim Eana and Yang Jae-seon and H.O.T. member Tony Ahn, will also contribute to this distinguished panel.

On November 16, the ceremony will open with NewJeans member Hani and actor Nam Ji-hyun as hosts. Artists set to perform include NewJeans, TVXQ, STAYC, (G)I-DLE, ZEROBASEONE, QWER, and P1Harmony, as well as soloists BIBI, D.O. (Do Kyung-soo), Young Tak, Yoo Hoi-seung, Lee Mu-jin, Lee Young-ji, Jeong Dong-won, and Taemin.

On November 17, aespa member Winter and actor Nam Ji-hyun will co-host the grand finale, featuring performances by NiziU, DAY6, RIIZE, aespa, ATEEZ, NCT Wish, TREASURE, FIFTY FIFTY, CLASS, along with solo artists Song Ga-in and Lee Chan-won. 

With a lineup of Korea's most celebrated and emerging artists, international accessibility, and cutting-edge production, the KGMA is poised to captivate a global audience. This inaugural event not only honors the achievements of Korea's diverse music scene but also strengthens its growing influence in the global entertainment industry.

Sayart / ReaA JUNG, queen7203@gmail.com