Singer IU performs during her "2024 IU H.E.R. WORLD TOUR CONCERT" at the KSPO Dome, Songpa District, Seoul. Courtesy of EDAM Entertainment
Fondly known as Korea's "little sister," IU solidified her position as an unrivaled solo artist with a thrilling two-week concert series in Seoul.
After releasing her sixth mini-album "The Winning" last month, IU thrilled her fans with four performances of the "2024 IU H.E.R. WORLD TOUR CONCERT" in Seoul, from March 2 to 10 on the weekends, the concerts drew a total of 60,000 fans.
Last Sunday afternoon marked the grand finale of the two-week spectacle. During the performance, IU captivated the audience for an astounding four hours and 20 minutes at the KSPO Dome in Songpa District, Seoul.
Beginning with "Holssi," the title track of "The Winning," meaning spore in Korean, the singer descended onto the stage under a serene spotlight.
This was followed by a medley of her greatest hits, including "Bbibbi," "Celebrity" and "Blueming," alongside fan favorites like "I stan U," "Hold my Hand," "You and I," "Strawberry Moon" and "Love Wins All."
Singer IU performs during her "2024 IU H.E.R. WORLD TOUR CONCERT" at the KSPO Dome, Songpa District, Seoul. Courtesy of EDAM Entertainment
IU energetically traversed the 360-degree venue throughout the event, interacting with fans. The indoor setting was well-lit, a departure from the usual dimly lit concert atmosphere of past performances, reflecting IU's desire for a personal connection with each audience member.
Encouraging sing-alongs, IU prompted unified chants from the crowd, fostering a sense of camaraderie among attendees. In response, the fans sent overwhelming support, with collective cheers reaching ear-splitting levels.
Visibly taken aback by the enthusiastic reception, IU humorously said, "I think my ears are temporarily paralyzed, not kidding."
"I'm grateful for the love you all show me ... Moving forward, I'll be performing in various venues, adjusting to time differences, and facing days when I'm not at my best, but I believe I can handle it with the support I've received from all of you today," IU added.
During the Sunday performance, actor Park Bo-gum also made a surprise appearance at the event as a guest artist, following K-pop acts RIIZE, NewJeans and Le Sserafim from previous concerts. Park added to the excitement by performing IU's iconic hit, "Not Spring, Love or Cherry Blossoms."
Singer IU performs with her dance crew during the "2024 IU H.E.R. WORLD TOUR CONCERT" at the KSPO Dome, Songpa District, Seoul. Courtesy of EDAM Entertainment
In a testament to her love for the fans, IU delivered an encore as extensive as the main performance. Responding to requests from fans on the spot, she tirelessly performed previous releases such as "Red Queen," "Ending Scene," "The Red Shoes" and "Last Night Story." Despite her continuous two-week performances, her stamina and vocal prowess showed no signs of wavering.
"My dream is to fill the KSPO Dome with audiences until I'm 71," she said playfully. "I'll keep singing as long as I have the strength, aiming to be a singer who conveys love to you through songs."
The successful conclusion in Seoul marks IU's first world tour in 16 years since her debut. The "H.E.R." world tour, spanning 18 cities in countries such as Japan, Taiwan and Singapore and stops in North America, has already achieved sold-out status.
Additionally, the singer made a surprise announcement during the concert for an encore performance in Seoul, scheduled at the Seoul World Cup Stadium on Sept. 21 and 22.
Closing the Seoul leg of the tour, IU said, "Entering my 30s, I continue to challenge myself ... It's my first time traveling to multiple cities every week to meet fans, so I'm a little nervous but also excited."
"But with the support of all of you, I believe I'll still be able to convey love through my singing."
Singer IU performs during her "2024 IU H.E.R. WORLD TOUR CONCERT" at the KSPO Dome, Songpa District, Seoul. Courtesy of EDAM Entertainment