[Concert Review] BE:FIRST are the Shining Ones for "Who is BE:FIRST?" Tour in San Francisco

Photo Cr. Megan Kan // KpopWise

Who is BE:FIRST?

BE:FIRST is a dynamic seven-member Japanese boy group (SOTA, SHUNTO, MANATO, RYUHEI, JUNON, RYOKI, and LEO) managed by BMSG and signed to B-ME, a joint record label with Avex. Known for their genre-blending sound—mixing dance, pop, hip-hop, and R&B—they’ve carved out a unique space in J-pop with their innovative music and electrifying performances.

On April 23, 2025, BE:FIRST took over San Francisco’s Regency Ballroom, for the "Who is BE:FIRST" World Tour. They delivered a concert that left their devoted fandom, BESTYs, buzzing long after the final encore. The group’s flawless live vocals and razor-sharp choreography—executed with a relaxed yet masterful precision—showcased why they’re considered one of Japan’s most talented acts.


Photo Cr. Megan Kan // KpopWise

From the moment the booming beats of “Mainstream”  filled the venue, it was clear this would be a night to remember.  The setlist was a perfect mix of fan favorites and high-energy anthems. All of the songs had the crowd singing along, thanks to the lyrics displayed on-screen for many of the song —a thoughtful touch for international fans. The group’s versatility shone through in tracks like "Shining One" or the explosive "Brave Generation" and the strategic, powerful "Masterplan," which had the entire floor shaking with fans dancing along. 


Photo Cr. Megan Kan // KpopWise

Mid-show, the members paused to connect with the audience, asking where fans had traveled from. When San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge came up, the crowd playfully explained to them—“It’s red!”—leading to laughter and lighthearted banter. 

Ryoki took a moment to reflect on the tour’s significance, sharing, “In the Japanese music industry, most don’t get the chance to go on a performance tour… We’re so grateful to be here with you all.” The sincerity in his words highlighted just how much this global expansion means to the group.

Sota well-known as a choreographer mentioned that a couple of months ahead of the concert, he visited to participated in dance events—proof of BE:FIRST’s dedication to working on and representing their crafts. 


Photo Cr. Megan Kan // KpopWise

Toward the end of the concert the mood turned celebratory when BESTYs surprised Ryoki with a birthday shout-out, prompting a wide grin from the member. With Manato’s birthday also approaching, the group playfully turned the tables, by shouting happy birthday back to the audience and “Welcome to the Earth!” sparking laughter. 

The night closed on an uplifting note with "Sailing," leaving BESTYs floating on a wave of euphoria. With their unstoppable stage presence, live vocal mastery, and genuine engagement, BE:FIRST didn’t just perform—they created a shared experience that resonated long after the lights came up.


Photo Cr. Megan Kan // KpopWise

BE:FIRST will continue the "Who is BE:FIRST?" 2025 World Tour this month in Taipei and Bangkok. In June they will have the European leg of the tour in England on June 1, France on June 3, The Netherlands on June 4 and Germany on June 6. 

If you missed BE:FIRST in California, don not worry, the group will be back in the US next month starting in New York on June 8, Philadelphia on June 10, Washington DC on June 12, Chicago on June 14, and Honolulu on June 17.

BESTYs, keep your eyes (and ears) open—they’re just getting started.


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Ciera Reeves

Ciera is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of KpopWise. She has been a fan of Korean pop culture since 2005 and writing about it since 2009. Her bias groups are VIXX and OnlyOneOf. She is a 2nd-3rd generation K-pop fan, but she is actively keeping up with the current artists. twitter instagram

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