Secured a ticket already but not sure what to pack or expect at a K-Pop concert? Or are you a lowkey concert goer who just packs lightly? Maybe you’re a chronic overpacker and you fear you might forget something?
Fear not, because here’s some items that you should bring, do’s and don’ts to remember when you go to a K-pop concert or fanmeeting:
The essentials
As the name suggests, essentials like your phone, power bank, hand sanitizer, money, portable fan, mini first aid kit, and other personal must-haves should be brought and stored in a bag that complies with the guidelines of the venue you’re attending.
Additionally, make sure to stay hydrated and well-fed so you have enough energy for the concert—and to recover afterward. While most concert halls don’t allow outside water bottles, you can still purchase water and snacks inside.
Dress in your most stylish yet comfortable clothes
Dressing up isn’t required, but encouraged; Sometimes a group will establish a dress code that fans would like to follow, or even wear similar clothing from idols past music videos or stages.
You can also just wear a plain shirt and basic pants or shorts, and just wave your lightstick around. Ultimately, you should put on clothes that will enable you to enjoy the concert to the fullest.
Grab your lightstick and ticket!
Lightsticks aren’t necessary, you could easily buy the small lights they sell outside the halls or even make your own makeshift fanlight. Now, Is it fun to see the lightsticks shifting colours in between sets? Sure. But do you absolutely need it to enjoy the concert? No, you just need to feel the music!
Now, if you do have a lightstick, always make sure to bring extra batteries, for you and your neighbor, just as a way to break the ice, and make more friends. Also don’t forget to pack your tickets, that is quite literally the reason you will be able to enter the hall.
Show off that merch
Let’s face it, fans like decking out their things with their faves merch, from a water bottle littered with Aespa stickers, to putting a sticker vinyl of Haechan’s name and sunflower keychains on a neobong. And when there is a concert, there is also a merch booth, so make sure to go early to snag some shirts or tote bags from your favourite artists.
Some fans also organize fan support projects such as banners, free food stalls, or small packs with unofficial merch as freebies for other attendees. Exchanging freebies is one of the ways that fans connect with each other, and help establish a connection.
Don’t forget to enjoy
Generally there aren’t that many social rules in a K-pop concert, but those that are established are heavily reinforced, such as don’t hold banners above your head, or use the flashlight of your phone when filming videos of yourself. Generally, just don’t obstruct anyone’s view.
With that being said, you can act however you like in a concert, sing loudly, jump high, have a whole party in your section. Let loose, remember, going to a concert should be fun and exciting.
