'MMA 2026' makes history with first-ever two-day run; IVE among 26 acts

Global K-pop festival evolves, promising powerhouse performances from top artists

The Melon Music Awards, South Korea's biggest popular music awards show, has completed a star-studded lineup for 'MMA 2026', heightening anticipation among K-pop fans worldwide. Melon officially announced on the 14th that 26 acts, including 'IVE', 'CORTIS', 'NCT DREAM' and 'aespa', will perform at the awards show, which will be held next month on the 14th and 15th at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul.

The biggest change is that 'MMA 2026' will be held over two days for the first time since its launch. The decision is intended to spotlight the increasingly diverse performances of artists as K-pop's global standing continues to grow, while giving fans an even richer viewing experience.

Fourteen acts known for explosive performances and distinctive concepts will take the stage on the first day, the 14th. Led by 'NCT DREAM', 'ATEEZ', 'YENA', 'RIIZE', 'TWS', 'RESCENE', 'Hearts2Hearts', 'I.O.I', 'aespa', 'Dragon Pony', 'IDID', 'A.N', 'TWE' and 'HANA' will open the awards show in spectacular fashion.

On the second day, the 15th, 12 acts that have won over both the mainstream and devoted fan bases will bring the event to a close. 'IVE', 'KiiiKiii', 'CORTIS', 'Hearts Wave', 'NCT 127', 'PLAVE', '82MAJOR', 'NCT WISH', 'ILLIT', 'ALPHA DRIVE ONE', 'LONGSHOT' and 'N DOUBLE' are set to perform and connect with fans around the world.

With artists from across generations and a wide range of genres set to appear at 'MMA 2026', the event is expected to become a mega music festival that goes beyond a conventional year-end awards show.