While popular groups have a large fan base, they once were entangled in low concert ticket sales rumors.
TWICE
Recently, netizens have dug up a photo of TWICE’s past concert at the KSPO Dome in Korea in December last year. This was the opening stage four their 4th world tour and marked their reunion with fans after 2 years of few activities due to the ongoing pandemic at the time.
However, the atmosphere at the concert was not as explosive as expected, kicking up new controversy on social media platforms. More than a few groups speculated the girl group’s concert was low on ticket sales. Nonetheless, ONCEs quickly replied that the concert took place amidst the restrictions of social distancing, hence, JYP cut down the available numbers of seats to protect the health of the audiences and the members of TWICE.
BLACKPINK
In 2019, BLACKPINK drew attention during their concerts in Europe and North America. While YG announced BLACKPINK sold out concert tickets and extended to another two nights in the US, the situation was not looking up. Evidence showed the group’s concert contained abundant empty seats.
BLINKs debunked the rumors, stating that YG opened an extra 2-night performance for the fans who had not had their tickets. However, a large number of extra tickets were sold on the “black market” with extremely expensive prices. Nonetheless, K-pop fans in general still held onto their suspicion. It was not until the first night began that the public was shocked at the crowded seats. The debated empty seats were filled.
BTS
In July 2019, BTS held a concert in Japan. Their opening night for the tour “Love Yourself: Speak Yourself” impressed with major investment in organization. However, several photos circulated on the Internet confused netizens with empty rounds of seats. Many areas with great views were left unseated, leading people to believe that the announcement of sold-out tickets was untrue.
However, fans were quick to debunk the rumors. They stated that the vacant seats were for VIP guests, media teams and important figures.
WANNA ONE
During their active years, WANNA ONE was one of the outstanding groups in K-pop. They gained a major fan base after the survival show “Produce 101”. Successful as they were, the group could not escape rumors of low ticket sales.
On 30th June 2018, WANNA ONE held a concert in Chicago, US. prior to their concert night, WANNA ONE changed the venue, from one with 18.500 seats to another hall with 4.400 seats. Despite switching their locations, their ticket sales were reportedly low. This was considered a wrong move for Swing Entertainment in opening up the scope for concert activities of short-term groups.
While all the groups mentioned were famous in their own rights, the status of ticket sales were still a hot topic for online communities. Hopefully with the pandemic under control and better organization efforts from respective companies, these groups can have more successful concerts with fans!
Source: Yan
