To accommodate the growing popularity of Korean pop music and culture, KCON began in 2012 as KCON USA and has now expanded to eight different countries including Japan, Mexico, and France. The event, which typically spans over a weekend, is filled with K-pop performances by idols and opportunities to learn about the Korean culture. Last year, KCON USA attracted over 128,000 fans.

Within the US, the conventions have been so successful in joining together thousands of K-pop fans that there are events located on each coast every year. KCON NY, which began in 2015, was actually held in New Jersey this June with performances from Pentagon, Red Velvet and EXID.

In Los Angeles, KCON was held this past weekend with rows of food carts, meet and greets with beauty gurus, and workshops for those aspiring to work in the K-pop industry. Presented by Toyota, the eventful weekend was definitely not a disappointment for K-pop fans. Most importantly, attendees were able to see these following popular artists take the stage at the iconic Staples Center:


1. Twice



After recently experiencing wild levels of success with its summer hit “Dance The Night Away,” Twice took over the Staples Center once again. The girl group performed its popular songs like “What is love?” “Likey,” and “Cheer Up” with impressive levels of energy. There was also a surprise for the fans as they were treated to a special performance featuring three of the members, Jihyo, Momo, and Tzuyu, performing Beyonce’s “End of Time.”

2. Wanna One




The Wanna One boys, who just celebrated their first anniversary, were met with screaming fans and dazzling lights when they made a dramatic entrance dressed in coordinated violet outfits. Jumping straight into their latest hit, the members began their synchronized performance of “Light.” The show-stopping opener was later followed by the likes of “Energetic,” “I Promise You,” and “Burn it up” along with time set aside for a quick audience interaction. The 11-member group performed at last year’s KCON LA as well as KCON NY this year.

3. Momoland




Another major group, which has become known for its hits “Bboom Bboom” and “BAAM,” commanded the Staples Center with their playful dance moves and positive energy. Showcasing their hits, the nine girls provided an entertaining experience for all the attendees. Although it was their first US KCON experience and first time performing in LA, they certainly seemed like veterans under the colorful lights ? the girls even treated their fans to a fast dance version of “BAAM.”

For the final day of KCON LA 2018, fans were able to enjoy the musical talents of idols including Chung Ha, Pentagon, and Seventeen.

By Serena Soh, Intern reporter (sjsoh@heraldcorp.com)