Excitement: KCON LA 2024 Brings K-Pop Superstars to Downtown Los Angeles

KCON, the globally renowned K-Pop festival, is set to return to Los Angeles from Friday, July 26, to Sunday, July 28, 2024. This annual event, which celebrates the vibrant world of K-pop, will take place at the Crypto.com Arena, the LA Convention Center, and Gilbert Lindsay Plaza in Downtown Los Angeles. The festival, produced by the South Korean entertainment and retail company CJ ENM, has grown exponentially since its inception in 2012, reflecting the meteoric rise of K-pop in the United States and worldwide.

The Evolution of KCON

KCON began as a modest gathering in Irvine, Orange County, with around 10,000 passionate fans. Joen Choe, the senior vice president of marketing and partnerships at CJ ENM, described the first KCON as a “litmus test” to gauge the popularity of K-pop in the United States. Over the years, the event has expanded significantly, now attracting an estimated 160,000 attendees and taking over multiple venues in Downtown LA.

The demographic of KCON attendees has also shifted dramatically. Initially, the majority of fans were Korean Americans or individuals with Korean heritage living in cultural hubs like New York and Los Angeles. Today, K-pop’s appeal has transcended these boundaries, attracting a diverse and global audience. As Choe noted, “Most fans are not Asian; the general market has embraced K-pop.”

A Star-Studded Lineup

This year’s KCON boasts an impressive lineup of 25 artists, with more to be announced in the coming weeks. The roster includes popular groups and solo artists such as Enhypen, SHINee’s Taemin, NMIXX, P1Harmony, A.C.E, APOKI, Bibi, BoyNextDoor, Craxy, Drippin, DXMON, Sistar’s Hyolyn, I-Land 2, INI, Isaac Hong, Jeon Somi, Jo Yuri, Kep1er, ME:I, POW, STAYC, TWS, ZEROBASEONE, and Zico. Notably, the event will feature performances by first-generation boy group g.o.d and the newly formed girl group from the survival show I-Land 2.

KCON will utilize four stages: M Countdown, the KCON stage, the meet and greet showcase, and the showcase stage. The M Countdown stage will host the main concerts, while the KCON stage will feature artists interacting with fans through Q&As, games, and short live performances. The meet and greet showcase will offer fans the chance to meet their favorite K-pop artists and K-drama stars up close.

Special Events and Broadcasts

One of the highlights of KCON 2024 is the “Dream Stage,” where fans are given choreography to learn and perform on stage with their favorite idols. This unique experience underscores the fan-centric nature of K-pop. Additionally, this year’s KCON will be broadcast live on national television for the first time in U.S. history. The CW Network will air the M Countdown concert live on Sunday, July 28, at 8 p.m. ET/PT, bringing the excitement of KCON to a broader audience.

The festival will also feature special fan meetings with top Korean actors like Kim Soo-hyun, Park Min-young, and Rowoon. These sessions will provide fans with behind-the-scenes insights and personal interactions with their favorite stars. The convention portion of KCON will include panels, workshops, and vendor booths offering Korean food, K-pop merchandise, and K-beauty products.

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to attend KCON LA 2024, we recommend arriving early to explore the vibrant city of Los Angeles. The festival’s venues are located in Downtown LA, a bustling area known for its cultural landmarks, diverse dining options, and entertainment hubs. Take the opportunity to visit the nearby Grammy Museum, the Broad Museum, or the historic Olvera Street.

For seasoned travelers, consider extending your stay to explore more of Southern California. A short drive from Downtown LA, you can find the beautiful beaches of Santa Monica and Malibu, the artistic community of Venice Beach, and the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. Each of these destinations offers a unique glimpse into the diverse culture and lifestyle of Los Angeles.

In conclusion, KCON LA 2024 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of K-pop and Korean culture. Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the scene, the festival offers a welcoming and immersive experience. As you plan your trip, remember to embrace the vibrant energy of Los Angeles and explore all that this dynamic city has to offer. Happy travels!