Getting ready for a K-pop concert is a big production in our home.
Outfits are planned weeks before (to match the theme of the band, in my case it was Manifesto Orange). This is important to us because it makes us feel like we are part of the show. In K-pop, this is an extremely important and differentiating element; the light sticks, for example, are synced with the concert lights, making every single person feel one is part of the show. This makes K-pop different from every other kind of music genre.
Fans also dress up in costumes the meaning or significance of which only a true fan would know, a costume that a member wore in a show. Or fans hold up signs of memes from one of their appearances.
Waiting in line. I never liked waiting in line, but somehow at a K-pop con, it becomes all part of the experience. The energy is electric, the excitement palpable. At one point the whole line was singing the same song. So far people have been kind and engaging—”who is your bias?” “I love your bag” etc. No room for VVIPS here! Get in line and go with the fun!
Seeing the fans in the venue early is all part of the experience. Don’t show up too early unless you want your merch, then plan to get in line before your section’s turn to be admitted so you have a fighting chance in the merch store.
Taking a break on the floor, literally sitting on the floor
Up close with Enhypen
My first floor experience with my daughter. I was nervous and excited all at once. My daughter is a true fan, determined to get close. Thankfully bouncers were very aware and very alert and always watched out for us. Enhypen’s energy was so amazing (they are very young) and so was the crowd! I didn’t feel tired the entire time because of the energy.
The next day I woke up and my body reminded me that I wasn’t 20 anymore, and I called my masahista.
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Breaking down barriers (literally) between me and Cha Eun Woo
