KCON, the world’s premier K-pop and K-culture festival, is gearing up to light up Los Angeles once again. Scheduled for August 1–3, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena and the LA Convention Center, KCON LA 2025 promises a vibrant blend of electrifying concerts, immersive fan experiences, and a celebration of Korean pop culture under the theme “Klover’s Club Fair.” On April 28, the festival dropped its highly anticipated first lineup of performers, and it’s already shaping up to be a must-attend event for K-pop fans. From veteran acts to rising stars, here’s everything you need to know about the initial lineup and what to expect from this year’s festival.
A Star-Studded First Lineup
The first wave of artists announced for KCON LA 2025 is a dynamic mix of K-pop heavyweights, J-pop innovators, and solo sensations. This diverse roster ensures that fans of all tastes will find something to rave about. Here’s the confirmed lineup so far:
- CRAVITY: Known for their high-energy performances and catchy tracks like “Groovy,” this boy group is ready to bring their signature charm to the KCON stage.
- HxW (SEVENTEEN): A special subunit featuring SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi and Woozi, HxW is set to deliver a unique blend of charisma and musical finesse, making their KCON debut a can’t-miss moment.
- IS:SUE: This J-pop group brings a fresh, hybrid sound that merges J-pop’s raw energy with K-pop’s polished production, promising an exciting performance.
- IVE: With hits like “Love Dive” and “I Am,” this girl group has taken the K-pop world by storm and is sure to dazzle with their sleek choreography and powerful vocals.
- izna: A rising act with a growing global fanbase, izna is poised to make a splash with their infectious energy and bold stage presence.
- JO1: Another J-pop powerhouse, JO1’s sold-out U.S. tour proves their global appeal, and their KCON set will likely showcase their dynamic performances.
- Lee Youngji: This rapper and variety show star brings her fierce lyricism and magnetic personality, adding a unique flavor to the lineup.
- NMIXX: Known for their genre-bending “mixx pop” style and hits like “O.O,” NMIXX is set to deliver a show-stopping performance.
- P1Harmony: Returning after a memorable set at KCON LA 2024, P1Harmony’s blend of hip-hop and pop will keep the crowd hyped.
- Roy Kim: The beloved singer-songwriter brings his soulful ballads and heartfelt lyrics, offering a melodic contrast to the high-octane K-pop acts.
- ZEROBASEONE: This rookie group, formed through Boys Planet, has quickly risen to fame with tracks like “In Bloom” and will bring their youthful energy to the stage.
More artists are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, so fans should keep an eye on KCON’s official channels for updates.
What to Expect from KCON LA 2025
KCON LA 2025 is pulling out all the stops to create an unforgettable experience. This year’s festival is designed to be more immersive than ever, with a focus on expanding content and engaging fans both onsite and online. Here’s a breakdown of what’s in store:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Venue | Crypto.com Arena and LA Convention Center, hosting concerts and conventions. |
| Theme | “Klover’s Club Fair,” inspired by the luck of a four-leaf clover, offering diverse K-culture experiences. |
| Stages | – M COUNTDOWN Stage: A live taping of the iconic K-pop show with headliners like IVE and P1Harmony. – X Stage: Spotlighting emerging talent, perfect for discovering rookie acts. |
| Festival Grounds | New immersive areas with activities focused on K-pop, K-dramas, beauty, food, and more. |
| Global Reach | Following KCON LA 2024’s 5.9 million fans from 170+ countries, expect robust online streaming options. |
The festival’s “Klover’s Club Fair” theme will split into four “leaves” of K-culture—music, TV/movies, beauty, and food—creating a holistic celebration of Korean entertainment. Whether you’re a die-hard K-pop stan or a casual fan, KCON LA 2025 offers something for everyone.
Why KCON LA 2025 Is a Must-Attend
KCON has been a cornerstone of K-pop’s global rise since its U.S. debut in 2012, and the Los Angeles edition remains one of its flagship events. Here’s why you should mark your calendar:
- Unmatched Performances: With a lineup featuring both established stars and fresh faces, the concerts will showcase the best of K-pop and J-pop.
- Cultural Immersion: The convention floor will offer hands-on experiences, from K-beauty workshops to K-food tastings, making it a deep dive into Korean culture.
- Fan Engagement: KCON is known for its fan-focused events, like meet-and-greets and Q&A sessions, giving attendees a chance to connect with their favorite artists.
- Global Community: With millions tuning in worldwide, KCON LA is a gathering point for the global K-pop fandom, fostering a sense of unity and excitement.
For P1Harmony fans, this year’s festival holds special significance. After stealing the show in 2024, the group’s return promises an even bigger performance, potentially featuring tracks from their latest releases. Similarly, HxW’s debut as a SEVENTEEN subunit adds an element of surprise, as fans eagerly await what Hoshi and Woozi have in store.
How to Prepare for KCON LA 2025
Ready to join the KCON fever? Here are some tips to get started:
- Stay Updated: Follow @KCONUSA on social media for lineup additions, ticket details, and event schedules.
- Plan Your Trip: Book accommodations early, as hotels near Crypto.com Arena and the LA Convention Center fill up fast during KCON weekend.
- Explore Ticketing Options: KCON typically offers a range of passes, from single-day concert tickets to full festival packages with convention access.
- Connect with Fans: Join online communities on platforms like X to share tips, coordinate meetups, and build excitement.
KCON LA 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark event in the K-pop calendar, blending music, culture, and fandom in a way that only KCON can. With a stellar initial lineup and a promise of more surprises to come, this is one festival you won’t want to miss.
