BTS’s Jin has once again proven why he’s known as one of the most beloved and powerful solo acts in K-pop today.
On July 12, 2025, Jin successfully sold out the massive Kyocera Dome in Osaka, Japan, with his first-ever solo dome concert as part of his ongoing world tour, ‘RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR’.
This event marked a monumental achievement, not only as a career milestone for Jin, but also as a historic moment for K-pop as a whole.
The show amazed thousands of fans with a stunning blend of vocals, visuals, stage presence, and pure fan connection, making it a night to remember in the Japanese leg of the tour.
Despite being a solo artist embarking on his first global tour, Jin managed to fill the entire Kyocera Dome, one of Japan’s largest venues, including even the restricted-view seating areas in the uppermost tiers.
Due to the immense demand, organizers opened all possible seats, allowing every available spot to be filled by enthusiastic fans.
This feat underscores Jin’s magnetic draw as a performer and reflects just how eager fans were to see him live after his military service hiatus. For many, it was a long-awaited return, and Jin more than delivered.
The concert wasn’t just a success in terms of numbers—it also garnered widespread media coverage across Japan.
Jin successfully sold out the massive Kyocera Dome in Osaka, Japan, with his first-ever solo dome concert as part of his ongoing world tour, ‘RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR’ (Credit: Pinterest)
Major Japanese sports and entertainment publications such as Sports Nippon, Daily Sports, Nikkan Sports, Sports Hochi, and Sankei Sports all featured Jin on their front pages the day of and after the show.
Such high-profile media attention emphasized just how significant his presence in Japan is and showcased his ability to create headline-worthy buzz.
Fans and locals alike queued up early at venues and shopping centers to buy not only concert merchandise and newspapers with Jin’s features, but also consumer goods that he endorses.
Products such as Jin Ramen and Eye Gene eye drops, for which Jin is the global model, completely sold out in Osaka’s largest shopping malls, demonstrating the artist’s immense commercial influence.
Fanbases around the world also came together in a dazzling show of support. On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), phrases such as KIM SEOKJIN and #RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR dominated global real-time trending charts.
In Osaka, the fanbase RUN WITH SEOKJIN deployed LED trucks to display Jin’s videos throughout the city.
The scale of support, both online and offline, was nothing short of phenomenal.
On stage, Jin gave a performance that lived up to all expectations. With his hair elegantly swept back to reveal his signature visuals—earning him the nickname “god of beauty”—he delivered a flawless live performance.
His vocals, crystal-clear and powerful, moved effortlessly between delicate low tones and breathtaking high notes.
Jin’s natural charisma, graceful movement, and passionate expressions captured the hearts of everyone in the dome.
Beyond just singing and performing, he radiated warmth, humor, and sincerity, making the audience feel personally connected throughout the night.
Known as a “live king” and someone who deeply treasures his fans, Jin took every opportunity to engage with the crowd and make the show memorable.
After the concert, Jin further delighted ARMYs by going live on Weverse, where he chatted with fans in real time, giving them an intimate glimpse into his thoughts and feelings after the performance.
This spontaneous livestream further strengthened the already deep bond he shares with his supporters.
In fact, Jin’s popularity in Japan has led fans to affectionately dub the country “JINLAND,” a testament to his deep-rooted connection with Japanese fans.
Adding to the grandeur, the concert was also broadcast through Live Viewing in 43 CGV theaters in South Korea, and cinemas across 10 other countries and regions, allowing fans worldwide to share in the experience.
The July 13 show is slated for global livestreaming via Weverse, ensuring no fan misses out on the opportunity to witness Jin’s spectacular solo stage.
The ‘RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR’, which kicked off in South Korea on June 28, marks Jin’s official debut as a solo touring artist.
After completing two concerts in Chiba, and now a successful run in Osaka, the tour is scheduled to continue through nine more cities, including Anaheim, Dallas, Tampa, Newark, London, and Amsterdam, for a total of 18 shows.
Perhaps one of the most historic stops will be London, where Jin will become the first-ever K-pop soloist to headline the O2 Arena, one of Europe’s most prestigious venues.
This groundbreaking moment will not only be a highlight of his career but a major milestone in the international expansion of K-pop as a genre.
Jin’s Kyocera Dome concert is more than just a tour stop—it’s a clear reflection of his superstar power, deep artistic talent, and global resonance as both a performer and public figure.
With every note, every gesture, and every interaction, he proves that he’s not just a member of BTS, but a commanding solo force in his own right.
As the tour continues, fans worldwide are eagerly watching as Jin writes his own remarkable chapter in K-pop history.
Highlight once again proved their legendary status in K-pop with a powerful and emotional performance series at the ‘RIDE OR DIE’ concert held from July 11 to 13 at KSPO DOME in Seoul.
For three unforgettable nights, the group reunited with fans to celebrate their musical journey — both as Highlight and as the group formerly known as BEAST — showcasing their evolution and deep connection with fans through a carefully curated setlist.
Embracing the BEAST Era After Regaining Rights
The concert was particularly significant as it marked the group’s first major performance of BEAST-era hits since reclaiming the trademark rights from former agency Cube Entertainment in 2023.
This allowed Highlight to openly honor their musical roots, something that had previously been restricted.
The impact of this was felt immediately when beloved BEAST songs were added to the setlist, stirring powerful emotions among long-time fans.
A Setlist Blending New and Classic Hits
Opening the show with their recent release “Chains,” Highlight quickly transitioned into high-energy fan favorites like “Switch On,” “Shadow,” “Sad Movie (Kor),” “We Up,” “Dance With U,” “CELEBRATE,” and “Endless Ending.”
The mood shifted to a more sentimental tone as they performed ballads like “Rainy Days,” “12:30,” and “DAYDREAM,” showcasing their vocal depth.
But the true highlights of the evening were the long-awaited full versions of “Fiction” and “Shock”, now performed with their original rap sections — a part of the songs that had not been featured since the departure of Yong Jun Hyung.
The Return of Iconic Raps
Rather than removing or modifying the rap parts, Yoon Doo Joon and Lee Gi Kwang boldly stepped in to fill the sections, breathing new life into the classic hits.
“We finally added back the rap parts,” said Yoon. “It took a lot of discussion and thought, but now that we’ve done it, it feels incredibly cathartic.”
Behind-the-Scenes: A Spontaneous Decision
According to Son Dong Woon, the decision was made during a casual night in Japan.
“We were just hanging out in a hotel room during a fan event when our manager casually suggested it,” he explained.
Highlight (Credit: YouTube)
“At first we hesitated, but by the time the sun came up, the decision was made.” Yang Yo Seob, who had gone to bed early, laughed and added, “I woke up to find everything had already been decided.”
Emotional Fan Reactions and Rare Gems
When “Fiction” and “Shock” were performed, the venue erupted in powerful fan chants, a testament to how much these songs still resonate.
“Did you get it out of your system?”
Doo Joon playfully asked, while Yo Seob shared,
“It was so good to hear those cheers again. I felt truly happy.”
The group also performed rarely heard tracks like “Dream Girl” and delivered the first-ever live performance of “Blow Me Away.”
“Seeing how much you love these older songs makes me want to bring back even more,” Dong Woon said. “I’ll be talking with our manager to push for more like this.”
Vocal Excellence and Stage Chemistry
Every song — from dance anthems to heartfelt ballads — was performed using handheld microphones, highlighting the group’s live vocal strength.
It was a refreshing contrast in an industry increasingly reliant on backing tracks. Between songs, the members kept the energy high with witty banter, heartfelt reflections, and emotional gratitude.
A Show Made with Fans in Mind
As the concert drew to a close, Yang Yo Seob emphasized the care that went into planning the event.
“The four of us debated a single cue sheet for nearly a month,” he revealed. “Every decision was made with the fans in mind.”
The meticulous attention to detail and sincerity throughout the show reminded fans why Highlight remains such a beloved presence in the K-pop scene.
The ‘RIDE OR DIE’ Tour Expands Across Asia
Following the massive success of their Seoul shows, Highlight is now preparing to take ‘RIDE OR DIE’ on the road, with scheduled performances in:
- Taipei (August 2–3)
- Macau (August 9)
- Manila (August 23)
- Tokyo (August 30–31)
- Bangkok (September 20)
- Kuala Lumpur (September 27)
These shows are expected to continue the emotionally charged energy of the Seoul concerts, bringing their legacy to fans across the continent.
Legacy, Loyalty, and a Bright Future
In an ever-changing industry, Highlight’s enduring success is not just a product of their music, but also of their loyalty to one another, their dedication to fans, and their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.
By reclaiming their past and embracing it with pride, they’ve shown that their journey is far from over — and if ‘RIDE OR DIE’ is any indication, they’re just getting started.
