aespa sparked discussion at TMA 2025 after performing an energetic three-song set back-to-back. The ceremony featured global stars, special premieres, and memorable collaborations that fans across the world loved. Some viewers felt aespa looked tired during parts of the stage and hoped for more rest between their demanding tours.
aespa Shines on the TMA 2025 Stage
The 2025 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS (TMA) transformed Macau Outdoor Performance Venue into a global celebration of K-pop on September 20. aespa commanded attention with a fierce three-song set, performing Dirty Work, Whiplash, and Rich Man back-to-back. The group delivered a sleek and powerful performance that perfectly captured the night’s energy and set the tone for the rest of the event.
Global Stars Elevate the Ceremony
TMA 2025 featured a star-studded lineup, drawing some of the biggest names in the industry to Macau. NEXZ, MEOVV, BOYNEXTDOOR, Stray Kids, IVE, AHOF, aespa, NMIXX, NCT WISH, ENHYPEN, ZEROBASEONE, CLOSE YOUR EYES, KiiKii, TWS, and Hearts2Hearts all stepped onto the “dream stage.” Each artist brought their signature sound and style, keeping the audience cheering from start to finish. The appearance of global action star and director Donnie Yen as a presenter further electrified the crowd.
aespa Inspires Special Collaborations at TMA 2025
The ceremony went beyond standard award-show stages, presenting unique collaborations and premieres. Stray Kids, NCT WISH, and ZEROBASEONE debuted their newest tracks on an international stage for the first time. AHOF, CLOSE YOUR EYES, KiiKii, and Hearts2Hearts opened the night with a heartfelt tribute to legendary K-pop hits. Fans witnessed the first-ever collaboration between AHOF and CLOSE YOUR EYES as well as special duet performances featuring IVE’s Leeseo, NMIXX’s Kyujin, and ZEROBASEONE’s Zhang Hao and Ricky.
Fans Around the World Join the Celebration
TMA 2025 ensured that fans everywhere could experience the excitement in real time. Korean viewers streamed the event through Naver Chzzzik, Japanese fans tuned in via Niconico, and international audiences accessed the show on the global platform Mifashow. The seamless broadcast allowed fans to share in the same moments as the live audience, making the event truly worldwide.
aespa Faces Mixed Reactions After TMA 2025
Following the broadcast, some viewers shared concerns that aespa appeared visibly tired on stage. They suggested the group would benefit from rest before returning to live rehearsals and intense choreography practice. Others expressed disappointment, saying aespa struggled to fully command the stage and connect with the crowd. They claimed the performance felt underpowered, with vocals and dance moves lacking their usual punch.
aespa Balances Demands of TMA 2025 and World Tours
Despite mixed reactions, aespa remains known for their strong live vocals and sharp dance skills. Fans trust the group can quickly regain peak form with proper rest and focused preparation. The main challenge seems to be their relentless schedule. aespa wrapped up their SYNK: PARALLEL LINE world tour in March 2025 and launched their third tour, SYNK: aeXIS LINE, in August. Between tours, they released new music and appeared at multiple events, leaving little time to recharge. While many agree a break is needed, it seems unlikely with the ongoing tour commitments.
aespa performed three songs at TMA 2025, creating buzz as fans enjoyed the show but noted the group seemed a bit tired.
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Even if aespa are exhausted from their packed schedule, they’re still so lovable. And you can tell they were singing live for this performance. People shouldn’t attack them for ridiculous reasons.