J-Hope of BTS Shines as Headliner at Lollapalooza Berlin, Proving His Global Solo Artist Status

J-Hope of BTS took the stage as the headliner at the world-renowned music festival 'Lollapalooza Berlin,' showcasing his presence as a solo artist.

On the morning of the 14th (KST), J-Hope performed on the final main stage of 'Lollapalooza Berlin' at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany. His 90-minute performance concluded the festival with a spectacular finale. The event drew a crowd of approximately 60,000, with global fans flocking to the venue from early morning, underscoring his worldwide popularity. Before the show, the audience chanted J-Hope and BTS's names, along with "j-hope, We wanna party!" to set the mood.

True to his promise, J-Hope enjoyed the festival with ease, delivering 21 songs rearranged with a band sound and heating up the venue with performances befitting a 'world-class performer.' Despite the intense choreography, his vocals remained steady, proving his worth. As night fell, the official light sticks, known as ARMY Bombs, shone brightly, and J-Hope's presence under the dazzling fireworks was nothing short of powerful. The audience responded to his passion with deafening cheers, and many were moved to tears.

J-Hope made his entrance on a lift, opening the show with 'What if...' and 'Pandora's Box' from his first solo album 'Jack In The Box.' He then exclaimed, "This is my second time at 'Lollapalooza.' Welcome to the second round of 'Hobipalooza' (a portmanteau of J-Hope and Lollapalooza). Are you ready to go crazy tonight? Let's go!" instantly elevating the atmosphere.

He continued with tracks from the special album 'HOPE ON THE STREET VOL.1,' including 'on the street (solo version)' and 'lock / unlock (with benny blanco, Nile Rodgers).' His performance of 'Killin' It Girl (Solo Version)' was explosively sexy. The audience sang along to 'MONA LISA' from start to finish. During 'Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel) - FNZ Remix,' a surprise event with purple heart slogans filled the venue with emotion. When BTS's group songs 'MIC Drop' and 'Dynamite (Tropical Remix) + Butter (Hotter Remix)' medley began, the energy reached its peak, with the crowd singing along to the Korean lyrics.

Towards the end of the show, J-Hope expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, "This year has been truly meaningful for me. Touring around the world, I've had so much to be thankful for. Being here with you tonight feels like the perfect ending. Thank you once again for being part of this unforgettable journey. I love you."

Fans from around the world shouted "사랑해" (I love you) in Korean, conveying their feelings. Even after the show ended, they continued to chant "j-hope, We wanna party!" prompting J-Hope to return to the stage to perform '= (Equal Sign),' 'Future,' and 'NEURON (with Gaeko, Yoonmirae).' He completed the festival with unwavering energy.

This performance was special as it adapted the solo world tour 'j-hope Tour 'HOPE ON THE STAGE'' for a large outdoor stage. The symbolic lift of the tour was strategically placed on the main and protruding stages as a key visual element. The cube-shaped bandstand, dynamic VJ visuals, lighting, and special effects enhanced the immersion and quality of the performance.

Returning stronger than ever after three years, 'Hobipalooza' at 'Lollapalooza Berlin' clearly demonstrated why J-Hope was invited as a headliner for this global festival. Previously, in 2022, J-Hope made history as the first Korean artist to headline the main stage at 'Lollapalooza Chicago.'

By Ji-won Kim, Ten Asia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr