Stray Kids made history at the 2025 MAMA Awards, taking home their very first Daesang for Album of the Year with their record-breaking album Karma. The win marked one of the most significant moments of the night, as fans celebrated the recognition the group had long deserved.
This year, Stray Kids dominated K-pop across every field, from record-breaking sales to global charts, yet this was the only award they received at MAMA—a fact that critics called a stark reflection on the controversial awards show. The moment, however, was beyond politics. With Karma being the top-selling album of the year, their win was indisputable—a true testament to their artistry and the love of their fans.
he stage moment was cinematic. Lee Know, reportedly injured in his leg, needed support from Bang Chan and Hyunjin to reach the podium—a scene that mirrored the long, challenging journey Stray Kids have endured throughout their career, overcoming obstacles together and remaining true to themselves. creating a scene of vulnerability and triumph that only Stray Kids could deliver. Once on stage, the members openly wept, reflecting on years of hard work, perseverance, and staying true to themselves. Despite having the option to go the commercial route—working with LA producers or buying streaming exposure—they remained authentic, producing and writing their music themselves. Their journey was powered by genuine fan support, not manipulation.
Bang Chan shared, “I still can’t believe we’ve won such a big award. Since trainee days, I watched this stage on TV and dreamed of standing here. I want to tell our members—they’ve worked so hard. We’ve been through so much together, comforting and supporting each other, and now we can share our music with people worldwide. This award inspires us to keep going.”
Seungmin added, “The road here wasn’t easy. There were countless crossroads and decisions we had to make, but it’s because of those choices that all eight of us are standing here today.” Felix also expressed condolences for recent tragedies in Hong Kong, emphasizing the group’s empathy and global awareness.
스키즈 마마 대상... 아니 애들 다 울어 지성이도 울어 어떡해... ㅜㅜ pic.twitter.com/KKFDNaaxXq
— 먼지♡ (@dxstty) November 29, 2025
Beyond the Daesang, Stray Kids delivered the night’s most spectacular performance, making viewers feel as if they were at a live concert. Hyunjin’s solo dance segment, now a beloved tradition, captivated the audience and reminded everyone of the group’s artistic prestige.
The significance of this win went beyond awards—it was proof that staying true to one’s artistry and working diligently can break the long-standing neglect they faced at MAMA. Stray Kids could finally rest assured that this recognition came purely from their talent and effort, a rare authenticity in an industry often clouded by politics.
For the fans and the group alike, this Daesang was more than a trophy—it was vindication, a cinematic moment, and a celebration of staying true to themselves in the world of K-pop.
🏆 VISA Album Of The Year #2025MAMA🏆
— 스트레이키즈 神총공팀 (@realSKZ_strm) November 29, 2025
스트레이키즈의
2025 MAMA AWARDS
<VISA Album Of The Year> 수상을 축하합니다🎉#스키즈_MAMA_AOTY_축하해#SKZ_MAMA_2025AOTY
해시태그와 함께
스키즈를 축하해 주세요! #스트레이키즈 #StrayKids@Stray_Kids pic.twitter.com/vKKWPwFGfC