K-Pop Fan's Bucket List: 6 Korean Festivals to Witness Live!

AKP STAFF

For K-Pop enthusiasts, securing tickets to top shows is an adrenaline-charged ordeal. While individual group tours offer their own charm, sometimes you want to witness a medley of some of your favorite groups all at once. For those seeking this collective experience, here are six Korean music festivals you absolutely shouldn't miss.

1. Waterbomb Festival: When summer arrives, the annual Waterbomb Festival stands out as an iconic celebration. Dive into a vibrant splash zone equipped with water guns, roaring water cannons, and the added allure of your cherished K-Pop idols taking the stage. Merging live performances with aquatic fun, it promises an unforgettable party experience unique to the season. Whether you're dancing to the beats or engaged in playful water fights, this festival ensures memories that last long after the sun sets.

2. Changwon K-Pop World Festival: A competition and concert all in one; you get double the amount of K-Pop at this festival! Held annually, the Changwon K-Pop World Festival is a gateway for international fans worldwide to live out their dream of performing on a K-Pop stage!

3. Dream Concert: If you know, you know, for more than a decade, the Dream Concert was "the concert to be at." Inviting only the best of the best, it truly lived up to the festival's name. From inviting groups such as TVXQ, Girls' Generation, ITZY, and more, this concert series is definitely one you don't want to miss.

4. Golden Disc Awards: Not sure about you, but Golden Disc Awards has some of the best performances from your favorite artists. With previous attendees such as BTS, BLACKPINK, and more, the Golden Disc Awards is great for anyone who wants to be a part of some of the proudest moments of these idols' careers.

5. Gayo Daejun: If you're one for surprises, then Gayo Daejun is for you. Always held at the end of the year, all the invited groups tend to put on never before seen performances!

6. MAMA: Another iconic music festival that's held annually, and while this one isn't within Korea per se, it's still worth attending. Hosted by Mnet, MAMA has quickly become one of the most anticipated music shows every year.