Latest news with #MONSTAX
Forbes
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
K-Pop Icons MONSTA X On Their Explosive Return To KCON LA 2025
On Saturday night, K-pop titans, MONSTA X, made their triumphant return to the KCON's M Countdown stage at the Arena in Los Angeles. It had been nine years since MONSTA X – Shownu, Minhyuk, Kihyun, Hyungwon, Joohoney, and I.M – appeared at KCON LA, the largest K-Culture festival in the U.S. They performed in 2015 and 2016. Unfortunately, the rapper and the youngest member, I.M, could not attend this year due to a back injury. U.S. MONBEBE - the name for MONSTA X fans – have waited three years since the 'No Limit' Tour to see the group perform. Though the group's leader, Shownu, was in military service during that time, he returned to the U.S. with Hyungwon to perform as a unit, Shownu X Hyungwon, at KCON LA and Krazy K-pop Super Concert after his discharge in 2023. I.M did his first solo world tour last year. The anticipation of the group's return was felt throughout the room, as Mondoongie (MONSTA X lightsticks) lit up the stadium alongside other groups' lightsticks. The energy was palpable as cheers, barking, and screams erupted as the lights went down. The group gave powerful performances of 'Beautiful Liar,' 'WHO DO YOU LOVE?,' 'Play It Cool,' and their Dream Stage song, 'Gambler,' which had select fan dancers dance alongside them. Fan chants could be heard as each song was played, which seemed to fuel the members even further. The love for the group was felt throughout the arena, and the members appreciated it. 'We've missed U.S. MONBEBE so much,' Kihyun said after the concert. 'It's been a few years since we've been here, and we really felt the energy from the crowd. We're so thankful for the dancers who joined us on the dream stage because they practiced a lot, and it was a really new and meaningful experience to create this performance together.' The days before KCON, I met with the group at their hotel in Los Angeles to discuss their upcoming appearance. Their eyes lit up as I entered the room wearing a MONSTA X tour shirt. Though MONSTA X is considered one of the most popular groups globally, they seemed genuinely surprised to be recognized. Minhyuk even asked, 'Is that ours?' They asked when I'd seen them live, which caused Joohoney's eyes to widen as I told them several times, including when they performed at KCON both times and Shownu X Hyungwon's KCON set two years ago. They all expressed thanks for the support over the years, which left a sense of comfort in the room for the rest of the conversation. The members expressed their excitement about returning to KCON LA, where they had their first U.S. performance just three months after their official debut in 2015. Though it has been awhile since they've been in the U.S., they feel like they've never left, thanks to their strong connection with the fans. 'It's so familiar to me and for the group,' says Kihyun. 'We can't wait to see our stages for our fans. It's so exciting.' Hyungwon was just as thrilled, despite having performed with Shownu just two years ago, to be at KCON LA again. He says, 'There were different feelings now, because we are back in our group [as MONSTA X].' When they first performed at KCON, they were a 'rookie' group, but now return as K-pop veterans, headlining the show. But, they all still feel like they're rookies. 'We feel the same,' Minhyuk laughs. Shownu adds, 'Oh yeah, the same. [I feel] like a rookie again, for sure. We have to work really hard. My [mind] is still a rookie, but it looks like [I'm a veteran].' Surrounded by several new (and rookie) groups, Joohoney says they all have the same mindset in terms of their performance. He says, 'We feel like the other groups who call us 'sunbaenim' (an honorific for respected senior). We enjoy the stage, just like the minds of rookies.' Hyungwon jokes, '[I have the] same feeling [as I did in] 2015 and 2016, but with better faces.' One thing has changed from their last experience as a group in the U.S. – the reaction from fans when they see a K-pop group: barking. Shownu and Hyungwon experienced this as a unit at their last KCON, which Hyungwon vaguely remembered but didn't understand the purpose. The rest of the members' faces were left blank and confused at the mention of barking. They had never heard of it or were unaware that it was a practice American fans engaged in. 'Barking?' Joohoney asks. 'I don't think so. Why do they bark? Is every group the same?' As I began to explain this American cultural phenomenon, they all 'ahhh'-ed in unison – and, surprisingly, in tune – with the realization of what it meant. They laughed and began barking. 'We are [definitely] ready,' Shownu laughs. Sometime after their M Countdown performance, Joohoney shared his thoughts on the fans' barking, seemingly enjoying it. He says, "The barking is so fun. We loved it."
Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
KPop Demon Hunters reveals which K-idol inspired the fan-favourite male lead
If there's one animated movie K-pop fans can't stop talking about this year, it's KPop Demon Hunters. The Netflix original has quickly become a global sensation that's kept audiences hooked since its release. The film, which dropped just over a month ago, has been topping charts across music and entertainment platforms. It follows the lives of HUNTR/X, a girl group that moonlights as demon slayers, and their secret enemies, the Saja Boys — a boy band of demons disguised as idols. It's the ultimate fanfiction come to life, and it turns out, real K-pop stars had more to do with it than we thought. EXO's Kai and Jinu As fans began spotting familiar moves and expressions, the film's creators finally confirmed what many suspected: real idols were, in fact, a major source of inspiration. One of the standout characters, Jinu — the charismatic leader of Saja Boys — was largely inspired by none other than EXO's Kai. 'To capture the emotional expressions of Jinwoo, the leader of Saja Boys, I took a lot of inspiration from EXO's Kai,' animator Min Hong shared in an interview. Known for his intense stage presence and signature style, Kai was reportedly the blueprint for Jinu's aura, and fans couldn't agree more. But Kai wasn't the only one. When it came to nailing the choreography for Soda Pop, the Saja Boys' high-energy debut track, Min Hong turned to MONSTA X and SHINee. 'Natural movements referencing the choreography of domestic idol groups' helped breathe life into the group's animated performances, he said. It's no wonder that K-pop stans spotted similarities instantly. Even the film's working title, KPop Demon Hunters, unexpectedly stuck around. 'I was surprised that KPop Demon Hunters, which was a working title, remained the official title. I thought it would be a gift to K-pop fans, but I didn't know it would become such a hit,' said Min. Meanwhile, Korean designer Wi Hyun Song revealed the evolution of one of the film's most unique characters — Gwi Ma — who was voiced by Squid Game star Lee Byung Hun. Gwi Ma's creation came after director Maggie Kang reportedly said she wanted a 'never-before-seen demon.' With stars like ASTRO's Cha Eunwoo, EXO's Kai, SHINee, and MONSTA X influencing character development and movement, KPop Demon Hunters has become more than an animated film; it's a love letter to the K-pop world. And with BTS, BLACKPINK, and TWICE also cited during the early research phase, it's no surprise fans have embraced the film as a new kind of idol fantasy.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Los Angeles Declares KCON Day: A Global Celebration of K-Pop Culture
KCon 2025 LA Why LA's Official Nod to K-Pop Feels Like a Massive Win for Fans Worldwide Imagine scrolling through your socials, blasting your go-to K-pop playlist, and then bam-a major city like Los Angeles decides to dedicate an entire day to celebrating that exact energy. On August 1, 2025, the LA City Council made it official by proclaiming 'KCON Day,' giving a huge shoutout to how K-pop has exploded into a worldwide phenomenon. It's like your friends finally admitting your music taste is unbeatable after pretending not to notice for ages. KCON kicked off in 2012 as a modest event but has ballooned into a gigantic festival drawing over 100,000 fans annually. What's even cooler? Around 40% of those attendees jet in from outside California, transforming LA into a vibrant international hotspot buzzing with energy from all corners of the globe. The Epic Lineup That's Got Everyone Hyped and Ready to Dance Alright, let's be honest: Who hasn't pulled an all-nighter binge-watching M COUNTDOWN highlights? KCON LA 2025 is delivering that thrill live, with powerhouse performers like NCT 127, MONSTA X, ZEROBASEONE, and even HxW from SEVENTEEN taking over the stage at Arena. But it's more than just shows; there are exclusive meet-and-greets where fans can actually chat and snap pics with their idols, plus the iconic DREAM STAGE where selected attendees get to share the spotlight and perform alongside the stars. Funny thought-picture attempting that in a packed concert venue; you'd need ninja-level agility to navigate the crowd without a mishap! From a global fan's perspective, this is pure magic. KCON draws in diverse crowds, highlighting trends that spread like wildfire, such as K-beauty tips blowing up on social platforms. According to reports from sources like Variety, the event features booths handing out free samples of everything from skincare goodies to spicy sauces, making it a total treat haven. On the economic side, it's a major boost-analysts note it drives substantial tourism revenue, and stats from organizations like the LAEDC show clear benefits to local businesses. Culturally speaking, K-pop's reach has skyrocketed, with streaming numbers soaring into the millions as per music industry trackers, proving its staying power in the entertainment world. How This Fits Into the Explosive Global K-Pop Phenomenon KCON's evolution from its 2012 launch to a global juggernaut is straight out of an inspiring comeback story-starting small and dominating the scene. It has spread to locations like Japan, Mexico, and parts of Europe, fueling the 'Korean Wave' that's captivating audiences everywhere. This year's theme, 'KLOVER'S CLUB FAIR,' revolves around themes of luck and happiness, evoking the joy of stumbling upon something special in everyday life. Wrapping It Up with That Irresistible Positive Energy In the end, LA's 'KCON Day' is more than a simple calendar marking; it's proof that music has the power to bring the world together, one enthusiastic cheer at a time. For fans everywhere, it's an invitation to immerse in this dynamic cultural scene, perhaps even gearing up for a future KCON adventure. The excitement is just ramping up-keep those playlists going, because the worldwide celebration is far from over!
Economic Times
01-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Economic Times
KCON LA 2025: From Jackson Wang to NCT 127, have a look at the starry performer lineup; where to stream the concert?
KCON LA 2025 is set to deliver a vibrant mix of K-pop nostalgia and innovation, featuring iconic third-generation groups like MONSTA X and NCT 127 alongside rising stars such as ZEROBASEONE and RIIZE. Scheduled for August 1-3 in Los Angeles, the event will offer live performances, fan engagements, and exclusive content streamed on Amazon Music for global viewers. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads An Exciting Blend of Legends and Rising Stars When and Where the Event Will Take Place How to Watch KCON LA 2025 From Home Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Special Collaborative Performances on the Dream Stage Lineup Changes: Two Stars Exit Due to Health Concerns About Kang Yuchan and His Musical Journey Sejun's Solo Debut and VICTON's Evolution KCON LA 2025: A Celebration of K-pop's Past, Present, and Future More than ten years after the global K-pop wave began sweeping through the United States, KCON LA is making a grand return—this time with even more energy and star power. The upcoming three-day music festival promises to be a thrilling mix of nostalgia and innovation, bringing together iconic names from K-pop's third generation alongside the brightest talents from today's scene. Scheduled for the first weekend of August, this much-awaited event is expected to be one of the biggest showcases in K-pop history. KCON LA 2025 is uniting some of the most beloved figures from the golden era of third-generation K-pop with artists who are currently dominating the global charts. The roster features fan favorites like MONSTA X , SEVENTEEN's Hoshi and Woozi, NCT 127 , and GOT7's Jackson Wang. Alongside them, emerging talents such as ZEROBASEONE, RIIZE, CRAVITY, etc., are set to bring a fresh wave of energy to the stage. This impressive lineup aims to celebrate K-pop's evolution by offering performances that reflect its journey—both past and present. Fans can expect a unique mix of memory-laden throwbacks and groundbreaking acts never seen 2025 edition of KCON LA is scheduled to unfold from Friday, August 1, to Sunday, August 3. The festival will be held at two iconic venues in Los Angeles: the Los Angeles Convention Center and the Arena. These three days will be packed with performances, interactive fan engagements, and exclusive artist content. KCON, which first launched in 2012, has grown exponentially in its cultural reach, and this year's event promises to be the biggest one fans who aren't able to attend the event in person, there's still a chance to catch all the action live. Billboard has confirmed that the festival will be exclusively streamed on Amazon Music. K-pop enthusiasts from North America, Europe, and Latin America can watch the performances through Prime Video and Twitch, making it easier than ever to join in from anywhere within these will begin at 8:00 PM PT on all three days—August 1, 2, and 3. Amazon Music's coverage will include exclusive live content from the biggest K-pop stars, directly broadcast from the Arena. However, this stream will not be available in Asia-Pacific countries. In those territories, including India, streaming rights belong solely to CJ ENM. Indian fans can access the livestream through of the festival's biggest highlights will be the Dream Stage collaborations. This year, fans can look forward to exciting joint performances featuring NCT 127's Mark and Haechan, ZEROBASEONE's Seok Matthew and Park Gunwook, as well as singer Roy Kim teaming up with CHOIHOJONG. These pairings are expected to deliver one-of-a-kind performances that blend individual artistry with innovative stage two previously confirmed artists—VICTON's Lim Sejun and A.C.E's Kang Yuchan—will no longer be participating in this year's KCON LA due to medical issues. As reported by Soompi, both performers have stepped back from the event after consultations with their agencies. Despite their eagerness and rigorous preparations, a recent decline in their health has led their management to prioritize their an official statement, their agencies expressed regret over this sudden change and emphasized the importance of rest and recuperation for the two idols. Other artists from their respective agencies, including 20 and HELLO GLOOM, will still go ahead with their performances as the youngest member of A.C.E, first drew widespread attention with the group's breakout debut single, 'Cactus.' The group quickly established a strong presence in the K-pop world with their striking visuals and innovative choreography. Most recently, Yuchan embarked on a solo career, launching his debut track, 'Champagne Poppin,' on July 10, which received both critical acclaim and fan appreciation for its vibrant has been active in the K-pop scene since 2016 and is known for hits like 'To Be Gone' and 'The Enemy.' Over time, the group has built a devoted fan base while also allowing its members to explore solo ventures. Member Han Seungwoo was the first to debut as a soloist, followed by Lim Sejun, who made his solo debut this May with 'You're My Summer.' His new direction was praised for its emotional depth and artistic expression, further solidifying his place in the groundbreaking debuts to iconic returns, KCON LA 2025 offers something for every K-pop fan. Whether you're reliving memories with legendary artists or discovering new voices, this festival is a full-scale celebration of music, culture, and connection. As the countdown begins, excitement is reaching new heights for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend in Los Angeles.
Business Wire
31-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Wire
August 1, 2025 Designated as KCON Day by the City of Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The City of Los Angeles has officially designated August 1, 2025, as 'KCON Day,' in recognition of the world's largest K-POP Fan and Artist festival for its cultural, social, and economic contributions since its debut in 2012. The City of Los Angeles has officially designated August 1, 2025, as 'KCON Day,' in recognition of the world's largest K-POP Fan and Artist festival for its cultural, social, and economic contributions since its debut in 2012. This marks the first official city-level recognition of KCON LA, which returns August 1–3 to the LA Convention Center and Arena. KCON LA 2025 features top acts, including NCT 127, MONSTA X, ZEROBASEONE, izna, and HxW (SEVENTEEN), along with fan-favorite programs such as MEET & GREET sessions with artists, the signature world-class K-pop show M COUNTDOWN, and the beloved DREAM STAGE, where fans perform live on stage with their favorite K-pop stars. City Councilmembers John Lee, Katy Yaroslavsky, Curren Price, and Heather Hutt co-sponsored the resolution, citing KCON's decade-long impact on Los Angeles' culture, landscape, tourism, and economy. 'KCON has played a pivotal role in elevating pop culture worldwide,' said Councilmember Lee. 'Its immersive multi-day convention format gives Angelenos and visitors a unique opportunity to explore the depth of Korean music, food, fashion, and technology.' 'The Korean American community and Korean culture are at the heart of what make Los Angeles one of the most creative, influential, and dynamic cities in the world,' said Councilmember Yaroslavsky, who represents western Koreatown. 'KCON reflects that impact and brings global attention to Korean culture in the city that's been central to its global rise. About 40 percent of attendees travel from outside California, generating significant tourism revenue and supporting jobs in hospitality, retail, and entertainment.' From 10,000 attendees in 2012, KCON LA has grown into a major cultural phenomenon, attracting over 100,000 fans annually to the flagship event in Los Angeles. KCON LA 2024, broadcast live on The CW Network, reached a record 5.9 million fans across the festival and digital platforms. This year, fans can access KCON LA 2025 live via the Amazon Music channel on Prime Video and Twitch. 'Events like KCON LA not only bring international visibility to Los Angeles, but also deliver a direct boost to local businesses,' said Stephen Cheung, President and CEO of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC). 'From restaurants and hotels to transportation and retail, the economic ripple effects are substantial.' In addition to city-level recognition, California State Assemblymember Mark González issued a state resolution on July 25 honoring KCON as a premier cultural event and key driver in the global rise of K-pop. "The history of KCON is rooted in the vibrant celebration of Korean culture — a culture bursting with creativity, global influence, and passionate artistry,' said Assemblymember González. 'What began as a gathering of fans seeking community in Los Angeles has grown into a cultural sensation, economic powerhouse, and has become a vital stage for rising artists, visionary performers, and innovative businesses to share their talents for generations to come." As KCON LA 2025 kicks off, the event will continue to reinforce Los Angeles' status as a global hub for Korean pop culture and entertainment innovation. About KCON KCON is the world's No.1 K-POP Fan & Artist festival celebrating Korean culture and music. Since launching in 2012, it has been leading the expansion of K-culture across the globe for 13 years. KCON has established its footing as a flagship event, holding events across Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Latin America and has been providing the largest forum for fans to directly connect with each other, artists and professionals from the Korean entertainment industry. About CJ ENM CJ ENM is a leading entertainment company founded in Korea in 1995. Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025, CJ ENM's entertainment division has been continuously shaping the next chapter of K-culture within the global entertainment industry, spanning media content, music, film, and performing arts. CJ ENM has created, produced and distributed globally-acclaimed content, including Oscar-winning film Parasite and Tony Award-winning musicals such as Kinky Boots. CJ ENM operates major production and distribution studios, including U.S.-based Fifth Season, the producer of critically acclaimed series like Severance, nominated for 27 Emmy Awards. In Korea, it runs the country's top streaming platform, TVING. The company also leads global K-pop experiences through signature events such as KCON, the world's largest K-pop Fan & Artist Festival, and the MAMA AWARDS, the premier K-pop awards show worldwide. To learn more about CJ ENM, please visit .
