KCON LA 2025: A Weekend of Music, Culture, and Connection
By design, KCON has always been larger than life—and this year was no exception. With 125,000 attendees, more than 350 booths, 107 participating companies, and 37 musical acts, the event transformed the Los Angeles Convention Center and Crypto.com Arena into a universe of K-pop and Korean culture. From morning fan engagements to arena-shaking concerts at night, KCON was less a convention and more a cultural galaxy all its own.
Not everyone could attend. Some were recovering from the cost of tour tickets, others were bound by distance or health, and for me, it was a mix of it all. But thanks to livestreaming, I was able to experience the unforgettable moments that made KCON 2025 historic.
Baby Don’t Cry – A Rookie Statement
Among the earliest standouts was Baby Don’t Cry, the first girl group launched under PSY’s label. Their debut track, “F Girl,” initially left me unsure. The title felt edgy in a way that seemed mismatched with their rookie status.
But the live stage turned everything around. Performed with energy, confidence, and playful charm, the song transformed into something electric. Their synchronized choreography and radiant delivery won over the arena, turning skepticism into pure admiration.
Mark Lee – A Birthday Gift to Fans
A heartfelt moment unfolded when NCT’s Mark Lee took the stage on the eve of his birthday. The audience serenaded him with “Happy Birthday,” creating a rare intimacy in such a massive venue.
Joined by fellow member Haechan, Mark delivered a flawless rendition of his solo “+82 Pressin.” Every movement was sharp, fluid, and intentional—proof of an artist who has refined both precision and presence.
IZNA – Bringing K-pop Demon Hunters to Life
Fresh off the success of Netflix’s K-pop Demon Hunters, IZNA’s Bang Jee Min, Koko, and Choi Jung Eun brought the film’s anthem “Golden” to life. Under a dazzling light show of violet and gold, the trio mirrored the drama of the movie’s opening scene. For a few minutes, the arena felt like a cinematic universe made real.
Night Two Highlights
Yuqi & Zhang Hao – A Sultry Collaboration
One of the most talked-about performances came from (G)I-DLE’s Yuqi and ZEROBASEONE’s Zhang Hao, who joined forces for a cover of Troublemaker’s 2012 hit “Now.” Male-female stages are rare these days, especially ones that lean into mature themes, but the pair fully embraced the sensuality and vintage glamour of the original. Their chemistry was undeniable, balancing Yuqi’s siren-like allure with Zhang Hao’s cool restraint.
aespa – A Long-Awaited KCON Debut
For many, the most anticipated act of the weekend was aespa’s first-ever KCON appearance. The quartet owned the stage from their opening track “Whiplash,” a pulsing, bass-heavy anthem. They followed with “Supernova,” pulling the audience into a whirlwind of synths and strobes, and closed with the smoldering “Dirty Work.” Years of experience showed in their polished precision and magnetic presence.
MEOVV – Reinventing a Classic
Rookie group MEOVV took a bold risk by covering Brown Eyed Girls’ “Abracadabra,” one of K-pop’s most iconic tracks. They reinvented the song with sleek vocals, feline choreography, and a modern twist that gave it fresh allure. A standout moment came when member Gawon delivered the “one, two” rap with such crisp impact that it seemed to bounce off the arena walls.
Hwasa – A Commanding Star
If one artist defined the night, it was Hwasa. Her set reminded everyone of her expansive discography, from solo bangers like “Maria” to MAMAMOO anthems including “Egotistic,” “Décalcomanie,” and “Starry Night.” She owned the stage with unapologetic confidence, each song delivered as though she were reclaiming her place as one of K-pop’s most powerful soloists.
HxW – Chaos and Joy
Closing the weekend on a playful note, SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi and Woozi (HxW) turned their quirky track “Stupid Idiot” into a fan-powered celebration. As part of the Dream Stage, audience members performed alongside them, adding to the lighthearted chaos. With cheeky choreography and knowingly absurd lyrics, the set became one of the most joy-filled moments of KCON 2025.
A Festival Without Borders
This year also marked the first time KCON’s nighttime concerts were streamed worldwide through Amazon Music, Prime Video, and Twitch. For fans unable to attend, the livestream wasn’t just about access—it was about inclusion. K-pop has always thrived on its ability to break barriers of geography, language, and stigma, and KCON’s digital reach embodied that spirit.
That same inclusivity made Los Angeles’ proclamation of August 1 as “KCON Day” especially meaningful. What began in 2012 as a small festival has grown into a global heartbeat, connecting fans around the world.
