K-Pop Makes History with First Performance at Japan’s National Stadium, Attracting 120,000 Fans Over Two Days

K-Pop once again demonstrated its global influence by holding its first concert at Japan’s largest stadium, the National Stadium. The “2025 Music Bank Global Festival in Japan,” hosted by KBS on December 13 and 14 at Tokyo’s Shinjuku National Stadium, featured a spectacular event centered around the theme “Golden Road,” showcasing the history and future of K-Pop. The National Stadium is a highly exclusive venue in Japan reserved only for top artists such as Snow Man and YOASOBI. This was the first time K-Pop had performed at this stadium, which can accommodate up to 80,000 people. The event saw unprecedented demand, with all 120,000 tickets sold out—60,000 per day over the two-day span. KBS President Park Jang-beom stated, “The Hallyu wave that began with Winter Sonata evolved into K-Pop, allowing us to organize this first concert at the National Stadium.” Actor and singer Lee Jun-young and IVE’s Jang Won-young served as hosts throughout the two days. On the first day (December 13), TOMORROW X TOGETHER, ENHYPEN, BOYNEXTDOOR, and ILLIT took the stage. In particular, TOMORROW X TOGETHER member Yeonjun received massive cheers from Japanese fans with his solo performance. On the second day (December 14), Yunho and Stray Kids, NewJeans, and IVE performed. The event attracted attention for its unique structure, which provided a comprehensive overview of K-Pop’s history. Under the name “K-Pop Golden Stage,” upcoming artists reinterpreted classic songs by legendary K-Pop figures. RIIZE and Hearts2Hearts performed on the first day, while IZNA and the four-month-old group CORTIS performed on the second day. Reproductions of K-Pop’s historical moments were also notable. Hearts2Hearts performed Girls' Generation’s “Tell Me Your Wish,” IZNA performed KARA’s “Pretty Girl,” and CORTIS performed BTS’s “Mic Drop.” This concert encapsulated K-Pop’s past growth, current status, and future potential on a single stage. There was also a special moment commemorating the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Japan. Snow Man, who is extremely popular in Japan, appeared as a special guest, heating up the stage with a dazzling fireworks display. The event will be broadcast on KBS 2TV at 8:30 p.m. on December 30.