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| Photo Courtesy of BigHit Music |
Let’s throw it back to FESTA in June 2022, an emotional time for ARMY. In fact, it’s a triggering topic jokingly mentioned amongst the fandom. However, it was needed as BTS opened up about their journey from debut to the present, sharing the highs and emotional toll of their meteoric rise, especially during the pandemic. Having little time to fully pursue their own creative sides as solo artists, not just as a group. It was J-hope who expressed that this next chapter was needed so that when they eventually came together again, their synergy would be stronger.
What followed was each member made sure to keep the fandom well fed during their enlistment. All seven released solo projects, with each album release more surprising than the last as they all dabbled in various genres and styling, and the result was nothing short of iconic. Chapter two will be fondly remembered, and fittingly, J-hope closed the box that started it all back in July of 2022 with Jack in the Box.
Skyrocketing out of the box at his record-breaking Lollapalooza set in Chicago, where he made history as the first Korean artist to headline. J-hope's rise has been on an incline since, now with HOPE ON THE STAGE taking him across 31 shows in 15 cities across the world, the time came to close the lid on this chapter with two final nights in Seoul. The first night, held on FESTA, made the night even more meaningful, as it marked BTS’s 12th-year anniversary. Thousands of ARMY had flown in from around the world to celebrate, unaware of the planned final two in store, making the experience feel like an extra shiny purple bow on top.
That aforementioned iconic box has been pivotal to J-hope chapter two solo journey. A powerful symbol representing the many sides of himself, both as j-hope of BTS prior and as an evolving artist. It signalled his release: from dancer to success story, and now, someone looking ahead with a new determination and purpose.
His fiery solo era began quite literally by leaping out of that box, with the first segment of the show igniting the stage through tracks like Pandora’s Box, More, and my personal favourite, Arson. The use of fire pyrotechnics, complete with interchangeable light that mirrored the box’s movement, was incredibly impressive. And this was just the beginning.
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| Photo Courtesy of BigHit Music |
The VCs served as the narrative backbone to the show, weaving together his personal storyline through symbolic staging and a well-thought-out setlist. With signs and props drawn from past music videos, while still pointing toward the future, subtly guiding the audience through the evocative journey of J-hope
Being FESTA, surprises were aplenty, as after all, this was a celebration. And what better way to honour 12 years of BTS than with a special appearance from the golden maknae himself, Jeon Jungkook, who joined J-hope onstage for their collaboration I Wonder. Released while Jungkook was serving in the military, fans had long hoped to see the song live, and the moment did not disappoint. It was pure magic, and it was one of many highlights of an unforgettable night.
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| Photo Courtesy of BigHit Music |
Although they hadn’t shared a stage since 2022’s Yet To Come Busan Expo show, the connection and spark between J-hope and Jungkook were more present, if not more so than ever. Effortless, electric, not a note missed, or a beat out of place. Once Jungkook addressed the crowd, it was as if he had never left. Left to command the crowd, he launched into his Billboard Hot 100 chart-topper Seven. Only for J-hope to appear right on cue for Latto's rap. Moments like this leave you in awe and wondering how they do it all. Tireless work ethic, their bond, and the fact that Jungkook had been discharged just two days prior. It proved exactly what J-hope mentioned during their dinner – that Chapter Two is all about coming back stronger.
It’s also a testament to J-hope's humility and sense of brotherhood. Welcoming his members to have their spotlight during his own tour. It’s a powerful reminder that, for BTS, the stage is a space for everyone. Having held down the fort for so long while the remaining members fulfilled their enlistment, J-hope - alongside Jin – made sure their presence was felt for the fans and never faded. While still having fun with each other and the fans excited for the thrill of all being back together again.
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| Photo Courtesy of BigHit Music |
The new single Killin’ it girl made its live debut – and true to the concept photos, it left quite the impression, thanks in part to a black and white style (including those now iconic abs) on full display. We were warned that this next one was to be ‘spicy’, and that it was. But beyond the striking visuals and energy, the important thing is what this has meant and represented to J-hope as an artist. Affectionately known as our sunshine and hope, this third single instalment showcased just how multifaceted an artist he is. From Sweet Dreams (Feat. Miguel), which highlighted his vocals and not just his rap prowess, to Killin’ it Girl, he continues to evolve, balancing all the things he’s known for.
Mona Lisa, on the other hand, marked a shift toward a more mature and sultry vibe, highlighting both his signature dance skills and his rapping. This marked the first clear step into the more sexy and confident image he had wanted to explore. Now, with Killin’ It Girl, that has now been fully embraced, oozing charisma, accompanied with a seductive choreography.
When Hangsang hit, the energy was undeniable with a swagger in every lyric, the perfect track for tonight, reflecting on his journey with the boys as he rapped, “Every day I’m so turnt up with my boys,” while looking out at the members in attendance. After the song, he turned to the crowd and said, “Congratulations ARMY, congratulations BTS,” almost as a heartfelt pat on the back for everyone enduring the last 18-24 months. Seeing all seven felt like a shared sigh of relief, as if a heavyweight had been lifted. Tears of joy were a key theme amongst the audience. Seeing all seven back – thriving, reunited and surrounded by a sea of ARMY bombs – one thing was clear: BTS are back, and the love between them and ARMY is stronger than ever.
The Hopeworld/Fantasy section of the show represented what we knew about J-hope , which we’ve come to know and love. While earlier segments – Ambition, Dream, and Expectation – all built on growth and self-discovery, this had led us to this sweet treat of a staging. A giant bed, bursts of confetti and brightly coloured words adorned the backing screen as he performed Hopeworld, Chicken Noodle Soup, and of course Daydream, which saw him dive backwards into an oversized bed. This whole staging was full of childlike wonder – imaginative, vivid and a fun thing anyone can witness. Watching him shift from determined to the things that bring him joy ie dance to now embracing himself on the tracks such as these. Drenched in pure colour, it gave us a look into the magical world he has crafted for himself and where the fans who look up to him find inspiration and comfort.
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| Photo Courtesy of BigHit Music |
Speaking of reunions, the encore was incredibly special as Jin appeared for a special rendition of Spring Day, arguably one of their most emotional and, of course, nostalgic tracks shared between ARMY and BTS. Including this song on such a significant night felt like the most perfect moment of this wonderfully chaotic and emotionally high chapter. With J-hope and Jin, the first two to return from military service leading the way, it was a powerful symbol of the group’s reunion. Together, they stood on stage not just as performers but as brothers, ready to step into what's next, all while holding back the emotions with the boys and fans in attendance.
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| Photo Courtesy of BigHit Music |
Like Jungkook, Jin was left alone to sing his new solo track, Don’t Say You Love Me. Shortly after, he was joined back onstage by not just J-Hope but also Jungkook for a moving rendition of Jamais Vu. Seeing all three singing on stage together, harmonising with such emotion, felt like a fever dream. Having the inclusion of classic BTS tracks added another level of nostalgia and unity in one night, and none more impactful than the now-iconic Mic Drop. Which now serves as the highlight for fans to partake in, with J-hope playfully waiting for not only the fanchant to kick off the song but also for the crowd to get louder during the unforgettable “Minahe eomma” line. On this night, with all seven members in attendance and seeing the sheer level of noise and passion from the fans, it felt like the most fitting and powerful way to celebrate FESTA together.
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| Photo Courtesy of BigHit Music |
To see an artist as multi-layered as J-Hope – someone who is a storyteller and a visionary – bring his vision to life through what he loves isn’t just important but also inspiring. He makes everything he does look effortless as though he was made to do this. But this was no simple performance and was instead a masterclass in what a solo tour can be. A jack of all trades and truly a master of each and every one. Just one more night remained of this show-stopping, record-breaking tour that has created nothing but meaningful memories for both fan and artist. And as J-Hope reminded us throughout the night, BTS are back. And more confident than ever.