FROM THE ELECTRIFYING energy of the crowd to the heart-pounding performances of beloved Korean Pop (K-Pop) idols, attending a K-Pop concert in the Philippines is an experience like no other. In 2022, according to data released by the official Korea Entertainment’s X (formerly known as Twitter) account, the Philippines is the fourth country whose X users post most about K-content.
As the Philippines emerges as a hub for K-Pop, with concert tickets selling out in just minutes, we bring you exclusive insights from the Bedan K-pop fans, who spilled all the beans about their thrilling concert experiences from the heart and soul of the Philippines’ K-pop fandom scene.
EXO-L to the Core: Arriane Faye Dipaling
Arriane, a fourth-year student from the Department of Psychology, said that she can’t remember the time she first fell into the K-Pop rabbit hole. “To be honest, hindi ko na maalala,” said Arriane, underscoring a K-pop fervor that dates to a tale as old as time. She further expressed that like any other fan, she was “hopeful” to see her idols in person, not just online.
While a specific date might come off as overwhelming, Arriane disclosed how her love for renowned K-pop boy groups, particularly EXO and NCT DREAM, led her to experience the “electric atmosphere” of K-pop concerts firsthand.
So, what were her most memorable moments? It was attending the EXO’luxion concert in Manila back in 2016. She fondly recounted the atmosphere, sharing the adrenaline she felt as she entered the big arena, to ultimately describing the moment she saw her favorite idols perform as “surreal.” Completing the experience was the “belongingness” Arriane felt, with the confidence boost everyone shares for each other’s outfits and the united fan projects and Cup Sleeve events that fans usually do to show their support to their idols.
But it didn’t stop there. The standing pit experience at EXO’rdium in 2017 and the back-to-back concert days at The Dream Show 2 in 2023 just further solidified her motto: “Do whatever makes you happy since we never know what will happen next.” See you at the next concert, Arriane!
A Carat’s Place to Belong: Erika Engracia
For Erika, the draw of K-Pop concerts is more than just the music. For her, it’s about the community. “The opportunity to be part of a community of fans, all sharing in the excitement and love for the music,” is what Erika finds truly special.
Her most unforgettable concert experience? A SEVENTEEN concert that turned into a night of “shared passion and newfound friendships.” “It was a wholesome experience,” she said.
But what sets K-Pop concert culture here in the PH apart? According to Erika, it’s the fan chants. Filipino K-Pop fans have taken concert culture to the next level by creating an unforgettable experience with their enthusiastic singing. It’s no wonder that this unique approach to fan participation has set the Philippine K-Pop concert scene apart from the rest!
So, the next time you watch a K-Pop concert in the Philippines, don’t be surprised if you hear the crowd belting out every lyric alongside their idols – that’s just the Pinoy way!
The Power of a Fandom: Margaux Guina
Margaux, a first-year student from the Department of Legal Management, described attending a K-pop concert as the “highest point of being a K-pop fan.” For her, TWICE’s “Ready to Be” Manila concert back in 2023 “changed her life forever.” Highlighting her concert experience were the “ecstatic cheers” of her fellow ONCEs, filled with tears, and a united front of singing along with the performance of the K-pop girl group in the spotlight.
“There’s something truly magical about seeing your favorite performers live and singing with thousands of other fans.” As such, this experience filled Margaux’s heart with joy, while creating memories that would last a lifetime.
What makes Pinoy K-Pop concerts unique for Margaux? “The solid fanbase,” she shared. While Filipino fans are known to go all out for their idols, this dedication extends to fellow fans too! Margaux revealed that fan communities often arrange shuttle buses or vans to ensure safety and accessibility for co-fans coming from far places. This sense of camaraderie, alongside the shared passion for K-Pop, made these concerts “so special” for Margaux.
A Journey of Dedication: Alexa Gaspar
Alexa, our resident Blink from the Department of Accountancy and Taxation, knows the power of K-pop’s entertainment factor. Watching groups perform on shows with YouTube only left her wanting more. She and her best friend traveled from their province to Manila in hopes of seeing BLACKPINK perform live.
Alexa described how the experience was an “unforgettable” one, especially when her bias came close to their section. But for her, Pinoy K-Pop concerts are more than just seeing the idols. She shared that, “Concerts are more fun here.” She further recalled as to how “Fans [would] sing along to every lyric, even in Korean, and they dance like they’re having their own party.”
The K-Pop phenomenon isn’t just about fandom and concerts. Rather, it extends past the glimmer, to significantly impacting the Philippine music and entertainment scene. In fact, Alexa highlighted how concerts tend to “introduce new music styles and choreographies” that inspire local artists. This exchange fosters exciting collaborations and a Philippine music scene buzzing with K-Pop-inspired energy.
Sharing the Experience: Danielle Santos
Danielle, a fourth-year student from the Department of Psychology, remembered exactly what drew her to K-Pop concerts—the experience. Witnessing SEVENTEEN’s “Follow to Bulacan” World Tour, with thrilling live performances by the group and feeling that connection—was something she had to experience.
Fan communities also play a big role for Danielle. She finds the “unique camaraderie” of Filipinos during K-Pop concerts “heartwarming,” where “the giving away of freebies and just the overall friendliness with each other” would create a “special atmosphere.”
Her most memorable moment was when the group members went around the stadium in carts during a concert, allowing her to see them up close. But beyond that personal win, she had the chance to connect with fellow Carats and create “lasting friendships” that extend far beyond the arena.
Finding a Home in the Crowd: Vesper Malabanan
Vesper, a sophomore from the Department of Accountancy and Taxation, was initially drawn to the experience of his idols performing live.
The energy in the arena where the Twice “Ready to Be” Concert was set “filled and ignited his passion,” especially the electrifying roar when the idols appear for the first time. Moreover, he emphasized the dedication of Filipino fandoms. He contended that “their investment” in the idols fuels an atmosphere where “the energy and love” flow back and forth, making the performers feel at home and give their all. This passionate energy, Vesper believes, is what truly sets K-Pop concerts here apart.
For Vesper, he sees the influence of K-Pop on the local scene, with P-Pop groups like BINI drawing inspiration from K-Pop’s energy and catchy music. K-Pop concerts are a robust energy exchange between fans and idols and between Korean and Filipino music scenes. It’s a win-win fueled by fandoms and catchy tunes!
The Final Encore: A Love Story That Continues
The unwavering dedication of fan communities solidifies the K-Pop concert culture in the Philippines alongside a unique mix of passion, dedication, and creativity. It is a testament to the power of music to unite people across cultures and languages.
So, the next time a K-Pop concert happens here, prepare for an experience beyond the stage. Remember the faces in the crowd, the singing along, and the light sticks waving—Filipino K-Pop fans living their dream and lighting up the stage with their love for the music.
(with Jennifer Gwyneth Fabros)