Stray Kids, one of the most dynamic forces in the K-pop industry, have once again proven their status as global superstars.
On July 18–19, 2025, the group is set to perform at the iconic Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, marking a historic moment not just for the group but for the entire K-pop industry.
As the first K-pop act to ever take the stage at this 60,000-seat stadium, Stray Kids are breaking new ground—and redefining what it means to be global artists.
This isn’t just another concert. It’s a bold statement of how far the group has come since their debut under JYP Entertainment, and a reflection of how deeply K-pop has infiltrated international music scenes.
The London stop is part of their 2025 world tour, aptly titled “Dominate”—a fitting name for a tour that’s setting records across Europe.
From Humble Beginnings to Stadium Fame
Stray Kids’ journey to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is nothing short of extraordinary. The group began their “Dominate” world tour in Amsterdam on July 11, 2025, before heading to Frankfurt on July 15.
Each stop has seen sold-out venues and ecstatic fans, but the London performance stands out for its sheer scale and symbolism.
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, opened in 2019, is typically reserved for premier sports events and world-renowned artists.
That Stray Kids now joins the ranks of such performers speaks volumes about their reach and influence.
Moving from 5,000-seat venues to one that can hold 60,000 people underscores the exponential growth of their fanbase, known as STAY, and the ever-expanding appeal of their music.
For STAYs, this concert isn’t just a performance—it’s a celebration. Many fans have followed the group since their early days, watching them evolve from a self-producing rookie group into a globally dominant act with chart-topping albums and high-profile collaborations.
For both new and longtime fans, seeing Stray Kids perform in such a monumental venue is a shared moment of pride.
What Makes Stray Kids Different
Stray Kids are not just riding the K-pop wave—they’re redefining it. Known for their hard-hitting beats, introspective lyrics, and genre-defying music, they offer something truly unique.
As a self-producing group, much of their discography is created by their in-house unit 3RACHA, which includes members Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han.
This creative autonomy gives their music authenticity and resonance, allowing fans to connect with the themes of identity, growth, and resilience.
Their performances are equally powerful. Stray Kids combine cutting-edge choreography with raw emotional delivery, making their live shows unforgettable.
It’s no surprise their concerts have become some of the most sought-after tickets in the K-pop world.
Continuing the European Tour
Following their groundbreaking London concerts, Stray Kids will continue their European leg with performances in:
- Madrid on July 22
- Paris on July 26–27
- Rome on July 30
Each of these stops offers fans across Europe the chance to witness the group’s energy, stage presence, and musical evolution up close.
Stray Kids (Credit: YouTube)
For many international fans, these concerts are not just about seeing their idols—they’re a rare chance to experience the full sensory immersion of a live K-pop event.
K-Pop’s Expanding Footprint in the West
Stray Kids’ success is emblematic of a larger trend: the unstoppable rise of K-pop in the Western music market.
Once considered a niche genre, K-pop has now become a major global force, influencing everything from fashion to social media culture.
The fact that a K-pop act can headline a stadium in London is proof of how much things have changed.
While groups like BTS and BLACKPINK helped lay the groundwork for K-pop’s Western expansion, Stray Kids are pushing it further.
They represent the next generation of idols—ones who not only perform but also produce, design, and connect deeply with fans worldwide.
This global impact is supported by a loyal, digitally savvy fanbase that promotes the group through social media trends, streaming campaigns, and fan-organized events.
The synergy between the artists and their fans is a driving force behind this movement.
A Defining Moment in Music History
As the lights go down at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and the cheers of 60,000 fans fill the air, it’s clear that this concert is more than just a tour stop. It’s a defining moment in Stray Kids’ career and a testament to the global power of K-pop.
The images, videos, and emotions captured over those two nights in London will undoubtedly go down in fandom history.
And yet, for Stray Kids, this is likely just the beginning.
As they continue to “Dominate” the global stage, more milestones, records, and firsts are surely on the horizon.
BLACKPINK’s much-anticipated return to the global music scene was meant to be a celebration.
After a two-year hiatus, the powerhouse girl group made a high-profile comeback with the “Deadline World Tour” and the release of their latest single, “Jump.”
However, while the group’s return sparked excitement among fans worldwide, the accompanying music video for “Jump” has faced widespread backlash from netizens and longtime supporters, with many labeling it as one of BLACKPINK’s worst releases to date.
A Long-Awaited Comeback Turns Controversial
BLACKPINK’s return after a two-year break was seen as a defining moment, with expectations running sky-high.
Fans hoped the new single would mark a fresh, creative direction while preserving the group’s signature sound.
“Jump,” however, took an unexpected turn both musically and visually, introducing a heavily AI-driven, experimental concept that strayed from BLACKPINK’s more polished and glamorous past releases.
BLACKPINK: BTS of Jump (Credit: YouTube)
Rather than impressing fans with innovation, the music video’s overreliance on artificial intelligence, surreal visuals, and jarring transitions left many feeling disappointed, confused, and even frustrated.
While some appreciated the attempt to break new ground, others felt the group’s identity was lost in the process.
Social Media Reacts: “Unwatchable” and “Insincere”
Soon after the video’s release, social media platforms like Twitter and TikTok were flooded with reactions, most of which were overwhelmingly negative.
Fans who had eagerly awaited the MV expressed shock and dismay at what they perceived as a chaotic and disjointed production.
One X (formerly Twitter) user bluntly declared, “SORRY BUT THIS IS THE WORST MV OF BLACKPINK! WTF IS THAT???”, a sentiment echoed by many others. Another comment read, “Most bad MV of BLACKPINK. I can’t even enjoy it. ‘Shut Down’ was already bad, but ‘Jump’ is worse.”
Some fans even went as far as accusing the label of treating BLACKPINK as a cash machine rather than nurturing their artistry.
Artificial Intelligence: Bold Experiment or Creative Misstep?
One of the most common criticisms centered around the excessive use of AI in the “Jump” music video.
While AI-generated visuals are becoming more common in music production, BLACKPINK’s video was described by some viewers as borderline unwatchable due to its erratic style and visual overload.
As one user noted, “Song was ass, MV was all over the place, and once again the money went to the MV, not the song.”
Another shared, “Whoever directed BLACKPINK’s ‘Jump’ MV was playin’ in their face… I like the song, but the MV was ass.”
These criticisms suggest that, while the track itself might be passable or even enjoyable to some, the visual execution distracted from the music and ultimately diminished the overall experience.
Contrast to Past Concepts: Has BLACKPINK Lost Their Signature Style?
BLACKPINK has long been praised for their high-concept, fashion-forward, and visually captivating music videos.
From the cyber-glam aesthetic of “DDU-DU DDU-DU” to the cinematic production of “Kill This Love,” they set the gold standard for K-pop visuals.
With “Jump,” however, critics argue the group has deviated too far from their roots.
The once cohesive, trend-setting visuals have given way to what some describe as “experimental for the sake of being different” without maintaining the quality and artistry BLACKPINK is known for.
Many fans feel disconnected from the new concept, describing it as lacking in heart and identity.
The shift in creative direction has sparked debates within the fandom about whether this is simply a one-off misfire or a troubling sign of creative stagnation.
Fan Division and the Future of BLACKPINK
Not all fans were entirely dismissive. Some expressed hope that “Jump” might grow on listeners over time or be better appreciated in the context of the full album or live performance.
A few praised the boldness of experimenting with AI and breaking away from formulaic pop video structures.
Still, the loudest voices have been those of concern, especially from longtime BLINKs who have followed BLACKPINK from their debut days.
There is a growing call for YG Entertainment and the group’s creative team to reconnect with the core strengths that made BLACKPINK a global phenomenon: authenticity, polished visuals, powerful vocals, and a clear artistic vision.
A Polarizing Return for K-pop’s Global Queens
BLACKPINK’s comeback with “Jump” was meant to be a triumphant return. Instead, it’s become one of the most divisive moments in their career.
While the song itself may still find commercial success due to the group’s immense popularity, the harsh criticism of the music video highlights a significant disconnect between the group’s creative output and fan expectations.
The controversy surrounding “Jump” serves as a wake-up call—not just for BLACKPINK and their production team, but for the wider K-pop industry.
In an era where visual storytelling and fan engagement are more crucial than ever, artificial intelligence may enhance a concept- but it can’t replace authenticity.
As BLACKPINK continues their Deadline World Tour and possibly prepares for a full album, all eyes will be on whether they can rebound from this misstep and reaffirm their position as K-pop’s undisputed leaders.
