When BABYMONSTER members Ahyeon, Pharita, and Rora took the MAMA Awards stage on November 29th, they didn’t just perform—they made a statement. Representing the fictional girl group HUNTR/X from Netflix’s K-pop Demon Hunters, the trio delivered a stunning live rendition of “Golden” that had 50,000 fans at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium on their feet. Here’s everything you need to know about this unforgettable performance.
Table of Contents
BABYMONSTER’s Performance Breakdown: Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | 2025 MAMA Awards (Day 2) |
| Date | November 29, 2025 |
| Performers | Ahyeon, Pharita, Rora (BABYMONSTER) |
| Songs Performed | “What It Sounds Like” & “Golden” |
| Character Roles | HUNTR/X (Rumi, Mira, Zoey) |
| Performance Style | 100% live vocals, no choreography |
The K-pop Demon Hunters Connection
For those unfamiliar, K-pop Demon Hunters is Netflix’s animated film that took the world by storm in August 2025. The movie features fictional K-pop groups battling supernatural forces, with original soundtracks that became genuine hits. “Golden” by HUNTR/X emerged as the breakout track, beloved for its powerful vocals and emotional depth.
MAMA Awards partnered with the film to create special tribute stages, with BABYMONSTER members representing HUNTR/X characters—Ahyeon as Rumi, Pharita as Mira, and Rora as Zoey. Actor Ahn Hyo-seop, who voices protagonist Jin-woo in the film, provided narration that set the stage beautifully.
Why This Performance Stood Out
100% Live in Original Key
Perhaps most impressively, the trio sang “Golden” completely live in the song’s original key, showcasing their raw vocal abilities. In an era where lip-syncing at award shows remains common, BABYMONSTER’s commitment to authentic live performance earned widespread respect.
The strategic decision to skip choreography allowed the members to focus entirely on vocal delivery, letting their voices shine without distraction. This choice highlighted what makes BABYMONSTER special—their unwavering confidence in their technical abilities.
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The Mixed Reactions Controversy
No groundbreaking performance comes without debate. The performance sparked polarizing reactions on social media, particularly regarding Ahyeon’s handling of the song’s challenging high notes. Some praised her vocal power and courage to tackle such demanding material live, while others felt certain notes were strained.
However, many fans and non-fans alike defended the performance, noting the extreme difficulty of “Golden” and the pressure of performing before a stadium audience. The debate itself speaks to changing expectations—should we celebrate idols who sing live imperfectly, or prefer polished lip-synced perfection?
A Somber Context
The ceremony proceeded in a subdued atmosphere following Hong Kong’s recent deadly fire tragedy, with celebrities wearing black or muted colors to honor victims. This context made the performances even more poignant, with music serving as a source of hope and healing.
Notably, a planned performance by boy group members portraying Saja Boys was cancelled as its “grim reaper” concept felt inappropriate given the circumstances.
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BABYMONSTER’s Rising Star Power
This MAMA stage represents another milestone for BABYMONSTER, YG Entertainment’s newest girl group. Since their debut, they’ve been praised for prioritizing vocal ability in an industry often focused on visuals and choreography. Having all seven members capable of strong live vocals sets them apart in fourth-generation K-pop.
The trio’s selection for this prestigious collaboration stage at MAMA—one of K-pop’s biggest annual events—demonstrates the industry’s recognition of their talents. It also positions them alongside top acts, building momentum as they establish themselves in the highly competitive landscape.
What This Means for K-pop
The “Golden” performance sparked important conversations about authenticity in K-pop. Should artists prioritize perfect pre-recorded vocals, or embrace the imperfections that come with genuine live singing? BABYMONSTER’s choice to perform live in the original key—knowing they’d face intense scrutiny—shows artistic courage.
As younger fans increasingly value authenticity over perfection, performances like this may signal a shift in K-pop’s future direction. The conversation itself proves that BABYMONSTER succeeded in creating a memorable, discussion-worthy moment.
Looking Ahead
With award show season in full swing and BABYMONSTER continuing to prove their capabilities, expect more standout performances from Ahyeon, Pharita, Rora, and the rest of the group. Their willingness to take risks and showcase raw talent positions them as ones to watch in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is K-pop Demon Hunters and why was it featured at MAMA Awards?
K-pop Demon Hunters is a Netflix animated film released in August 2025 that features fictional K-pop groups fighting supernatural forces. The movie became a cultural phenomenon with original soundtracks that charted as real songs. MAMA Awards partnered with the film for special tribute stages, bringing the animated groups to life through performances by real K-pop idols.
Did BABYMONSTER really sing live at the MAMA Awards?
Yes! All three BABYMONSTER members sang completely live in the original key of “Golden,” which is notably challenging with extremely high notes. Their decision to perform without lip-syncing or backing tracks, while also skipping choreography to focus on vocals, made the performance particularly impressive and sparked both praise and debate online.
