aespa Stuns Tokyo Dome with Powerhouse Performances and Individual Flair

Three Hours of Distinctive Brilliance Unleashed

During the encore, the mood shifted dramatically as all four members appeared in relaxed pink pig costumes. They rode together on a single trolley, bringing a playful vibe to the stage as they performed the upbeat tracks “BAHAMA” and “YOU,” making their way closer to the MY fans once again.

Karina joked, “I think we’re the only ones who wore these pig costumes at Tokyo Dome,” making the audience laugh. The group then moved to the center stage and each member reflected on the show.

Ningning said, “It’s been a while since we’ve had a concert at Tokyo Dome, and we’re honored to be performing here again. It’s truly moving to see so many of you gathered in one space to watch our songs and dances. We cherish this opportunity. If we have the chance to perform at Tokyo Dome again, we want to work even harder and prepare an even better show.”

Karina added, “It was so much fun to perform at Tokyo Dome again this year, and I still can’t believe it. I was very nervous during rehearsal, but once the show started, I enjoyed it more than I was nervous. Thanks to all of you, we prepared the best we could, and I hope you had a great time. We’ll continue to do our best, so please stay with us. I truly love you all, and my world is MY.”

Winter expressed, “Did you have fun? I really had a great time too. You filled us with your energy, and I was able to perform with such happiness. Today’s show was really enjoyable. I love you.”

Giselle said, “Just like last year, it’s amazing that we were able to have a concert at Tokyo Dome just for aespa. I’m really, truly grateful for all of your support. I know you’re always cheering us on, so please keep waiting for us. I truly love you all.”

As they performed their final song, “MELODY,” a surprise event unfolded from the audience, with the message “aespa IS THE BEST” lighting up the seats. Winter led the crowd in chanting “MY-J is the best,” to which the MY-J fans responded with “aespa is the best.” This exchange of sentiments between aespa and MY capped off the nearly three-hour, 28-song performance on a high note.

In the K-POP industry, where groups often craft elaborate visual identities and detailed worldviews for each project, “concept assimilation ability” is a key metric for evaluation. aespa, with their “Avatar X Experience” concept, is recognized as a group excelling in this area. Their recent performance not only deepened interest in their distinct world-building but also sparked excitement about their growth beyond the concept, highlighting their individual personalities and charms.

Reflecting on their journey, aespa began their career amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, initially having no chance to perform before live audiences. They voiced concerns about whether they truly had fans, a sentiment documented in the August 30 film “aespa: MY First Page.” Over the past four years, they have since taken on major stages, including world tours and Coachella. Their confidence was clear during their second Tokyo Dome performance, as they looked forward to future successes. The performance’s video segments depicted their struggles with existential dilemmas caused by a “second self” from another world. Yet, the live presence of the four members on stage radiated a powerful affirmation of their unique identity.