[K-POP], week 3 of Aug - Your Ultimate Guide to K-POP This Week: Concerts, Comebacks, and Insider Tips!
📌 Table of Contents
🗞️ This Week's K-POP News
Stay up-to-date with the hottest happenings in the K-POP world!
Stray Kids to Release New Album 'KARMA' on August 22nd
Get ready, STAYs! The powerhouse group Stray Kids is set to drop their highly anticipated 4th studio album, 'KARMA', on August 22, 2025. The album delves into themes of destiny and retribution, reflecting the group's incredible journey. The title track, 'CEREMONY', is a celebration of their achievements and a heartfelt thank you to their dedicated fanbase. The talented production trio 3RACHA, consisting of members Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han, has once again taken the helm for this album, promising another collection of high-quality tracks.
Tomorrow X Together Kicks Off World Tour
MOAs, the wait is over! Tomorrow X Together (TXT) is launching their fourth world tour, starting with a bang at the Seoul Gocheok Sky Dome on August 22, 2025. This tour is all about moving forward together towards a brighter tomorrow, and the group is excited to create unforgettable memories with fans both online and offline. Following their Seoul dates, TXT will head to the United States and Japan, bringing their electrifying performances to a global audience.
BTS's Jungkook Sets New Spotify Record
The "Golden Maknae" has done it again! Jungkook of BTS has made history as his debut solo single, "Seven" (2023), became the first K-pop song to surpass 2.5 billion streams on Spotify. This incredible milestone was reached on August 18, just over two years since the song's release, proving Jungkook's immense global popularity and the timeless appeal of his music.
🎶 Latest K-POP Releases
This week is heating up with some major comebacks and new releases that you absolutely cannot miss. From fan favorites to rising rookies, there's something to refresh everyone's playlist.
- Stray Kids - KARMA: As mentioned, Stray Kids is making their long-awaited comeback with a full studio album on August 22nd. This is their first Korean studio album in over two years, and the excitement is palpable.
- MAMAMOO's Moonbyul - laundri: Following her successful first solo world tour, Moonbyul is back with her fourth solo EP, released on August 20th. The album is described as a "laundry of different emotions," showcasing her vulnerability and charm.
- JEON SOMI - Chaotic & Confused: Known for her vibrant energy, JEON SOMI has returned with a new album that promises to be a mix of fun and introspective tracks.
- YOUNG POSSE - Growing Pain Pt. 1 : Free: This rookie group is making a comeback with a quirky and rebellious concept. Known for their edgy sound, YOUNG POSSE is ready to break the mold once again.
🎤 K-POP Concerts in Korea
For those of you in Korea, this week is packed with amazing live performances. Here's a look at some of the hottest tickets in town.
| Artist | Concert/Event | Date | Venue | Ticketing Platform |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Various Artists | 2025 K-World Dream Awards | August 21 | Jamsil Arena, Seoul | Interpark, Yes24 |
| FTISLAND | FTISLAND LIVE 'MAD HAPPY' | August 23 - 24 | Bluesquare Mastercard Hall, Seoul | Interpark |
| SUPER JUNIOR | 20th Anniversary Tour <SUPER SHOW 10> | August 23 - 24 | KSPO DOME, Seoul | Melon Ticket |
| AKMU | 2025 AKMU STANDING CONCERT [AKDONGDEUL] | Until August 24 | Myunghwa Live Hall, Seoul | Ticketlink |
🎫 Pro-Tips for Buying Concert Tickets in Korea
Getting your hands on K-POP concert tickets in Korea can be a battle, but with these tips, you'll have a fighting chance!
Use Global Ticketing Sites
Most major ticketing platforms like Interpark, YES24, and Melon Ticket have global versions of their websites. Make sure you're on the global site, as the Korean sites often require a Korean phone number and credit card. You'll need to create a separate account for the global page even if you have one on the Korean version.
Join the Official Fan Club
Being a member of a group's official fan club is often the golden ticket. Memberships usually grant you access to a pre-sale, where you have a much better chance of securing good seats before they open up to the general public. Keep an eye on announcement dates, as some memberships only open for registration once a year.
The PC Bang Advantage
For highly competitive tickets, head to a PC bang (Korean internet cafe). They boast incredibly fast internet speeds, which can make all the difference when thousands of fans are trying to buy tickets at the exact same second. Use a server time website like Navyism to sync your clicks perfectly with the official sale time.
Be Prepared to Go Solo
Getting multiple seats together is extremely difficult. Increase your chances by being open to sitting alone. It's much easier to snag a single seat than a pair or a group.
✈️ Overseas K-POP Concerts
The Hallyu wave continues to sweep the globe! Here are some of the international K-POP concerts happening this week.
| Artist | Concert/Event | Date | City, Country | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ONEUS | 2025 WORLD TOUR 'H_OUR, US' | August 21 | Los Angeles, USA | Wilshire Ebell Theatre |
| ENHYPEN | WORLD TOUR 'WALK THE LINE' | August 22 | London, UK | The O2 |
| ONEUS | 2025 WORLD TOUR 'H_OUR, US' | August 23 | San Francisco, USA | Palace of Fine Arts |
| ATEEZ | 2025 WORLD TOUR [IN YOUR FANTASY] | August 23 | Mexico City, Mexico | Estadio GNP Seguros |
🤫 Concert Etiquette 101
To ensure everyone has an amazing time, here are a few concert etiquette tips to keep in mind.
- Mind Your Lightstick: It's easy to get caught up in the excitement, but be careful not to hit those around you with your lightstick. Hold it in front of you, around head level, to give everyone space.
- Keep Signs and Phones at Eye Level: While you want to capture memories and show your support, holding your phone or a sign too high can block the view for people behind you. Be considerate of your fellow fans.
- Respect the Artists: When the artists are talking, try to refrain from screaming or interrupting them. Listen to what they have to say, and save your cheers for after they finish speaking.
- No Pushing: In standing sections, it can get crowded, but always be mindful of others' personal space. Pushing and shoving can be dangerous and ruins the experience for everyone.
🎉 K-POP Events & Pop-Up Stores
Seoul is buzzing with exciting pop-up stores and events this August! Here are a few you should check out:
- SUPER JUNIOR 'GRAND OPENING! SJ MARKET': Celebrating their 20th anniversary, Super Junior has a special pop-up market running until August 31st in Seongsu.
- BETTY BOOP❤️ POP-UP: Head to the Lotte Department Store Main Branch for a cute Betty Boop pop-up, open until August 21st.
- Crayon Shinchan Pop-Up: For fans of the classic animation, a Crayon Shinchan pop-up is running at I'PARK Mall in Yongsan until August 20th, offering photo zones and exclusive merchandise.
- Junji Ito x Toonique Cafe: If you're into horror manga, this spooky collaboration in Hongdae is a must-visit, running until August 31st with themed drinks and desserts.
🛍️ Album & Goods Shopping Guide
No trip to Korea is complete without a K-POP shopping spree! Here are some of the best spots to find albums and merchandise in Seoul.
Myeongdong
A shopper's paradise, Myeongdong is a must-visit. The Myeongdong Underground Shopping Center is fantastic for affordable and unofficial goods like posters and stickers. For official albums and merchandise, check out Music Korea and Buruttrak, which is known for its collection of older and rarer albums.
Gangnam
Head to the COEX Mall to find KTown4U, which boasts a huge selection of albums and a massive wall of lightsticks. You can also visit the Kyobo Book Centre, which has a large music section where you can often find albums and K-POP related magazines.
Hongdae
The youthful and artistic neighborhood of Hongdae is home to Withmuu, a store that not only sells a wide variety of official merchandise but also has a cafe where you can relax and watch music videos. It's a great spot to find concert merch and other exclusive items.
Please note that all schedules and events are subject to change depending on the artists' and organizers' circumstances. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please check the official ticketing websites and social media channels.
Have a fantastic week, K-POP lovers!
- BonoHyung
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