Music Critic Anna Frankland writes about her experience seeing the K-pop group ATEEZ live in London
ATEEZ are an experimental K-pop group that push the boundaries of the genre, and excel when performing live. Whilst maintaining popularity in South Korea, their audience expands globally, with the three shows from their world tour, ‘Towards the Light: Will to Power’, marking their fourth time performing in the UK. Whilst the tour began in Seoul back in January 2024, the European leg commenced in January 2025 following the release of their eleventh EP Golden Hour: Part 2 and their lead single ‘Ice On My Teeth’.
Being in the pit for the first London show at the O2 Arena, the energy was palpable. Following the sound check where ATEEZ performed three songs and leisurely interacted with the crowd, the atmosphere was one of community and collective excitement. With the fanbases in K-pop being such a crucial part of the genre and group’s identity, creating friendships with those around me came with ease. It was reflective of the K-pop concert experience, defined by the extravagant outfits, the exchange of friendship bracelets and freebies, and a sense of camaraderie that celebrates the mutual appreciation of the artist.
ATEEZ took to the stage in a fury of light and smoke, appearing silhouetted under the watch of a large eye atop a tower-esque structure that was integrated into their stage. The adrenaline of the audience was high, and exemplified by their opening song ‘Crazy Form’. The power of their performance was comprised of awe-inducing live vocals and dynamic dancing that captivated everyone from the barrier to the nose-bleeds. It set the tone for the show, as not once did ATEEZ falter, managing to maintain vigorous choreography throughout the two and a half hour set. Yunho and San particularly demanded attention during the night one show, as they emphasised dancing through their skillful delivery, and upheld a dominating stage presence.
“The power of their performance was comprised of awe-inducing live vocals and dynamic dancing that captivated everyone from the barrier to the nose-bleeds.
The sets and stage design really set this tour apart from the two times I have seen ATEEZ live previously. It integrated the lore and storylines they created within their songs and music videos. The interplay between ATEEZ’s acting segments, the VCRs and the sets, executed a cohesion throughout the show, and a uniqueness that can only be attributed to seeing them live. It created an immersive bubble from the outside world, and was equally as impressive from my nose-bleed seats for the Manchester show.
ATEEZ is a group who’s discography is made to be performed live. This is particularly applicable to their song ‘Guerrilla’ as the influx of bass and use of live guitars amplify the song’s anthemic nature. The end of the song has the repetition of the lyrics ‘Break The Wall’ which the crowd chanted emphatically whilst ATEEZ performed the intense dance break, which has now become a legacy within their concerts, solidifying the song as one of the most memorable.
“ATEEZ is a group who’s discography is made to be performed live.
The highlight of the show was Hongjoong and Seonghwa’s collaboration on the song ‘MATZ’. Prior to seeing it live, it had not been a song I had given much attention to, but the live rendition was a standout performance. Hongjoong’s charismatic and eccentric rap-style was compelling to watch and came to life on stage. It paired well with Seonghwa’s calm demeanor as he took the opportunityto stray from his usual position as a vocalist and demonstrated his range as a rapper. The use of red-lighting, pyrotechnics and smoke heightened the audience’s attention to Hongjoong and Seonghwa’s fierce conduct. They moved about the stage with an exhilarating presence, finishing the song by suddenly appearing in the middle of the extended stage, amongst flames, exciting the crowd.
Whilst the majority of the concert was intense, there were moments of calm where ATEEZ could interact with fans and have fun on stage. The members expressed their gratitude towards fans and being able to perform in the UK, with Hongjoong being particularly excited in Manchester as he spoke of his love for Oasis, and accumulated the crowd to sing a rendition of ‘Wonderwall’. It was admirable to see the relationship between the group and the fans, with there being a genuine sincerity to the interactions.
ATEEZ continue to be unbelievable performers, with live shows providing them the grounds to showcase their talent and dedication. To experience them live is unlike any other, and having seen them both in the UK and South Korea, the energy that the UK audience brings amplifies the event to defy expectations every time. They set a standard that is hard to beat, yet continue to out-perform themselves.
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