[REVIEW] IU wraps historic world tour with considerate Seoul finale

By Pyo Kyung-min

After fascinating followers across the globe, singer IU returned to Seoul for the grand finale of her world tour. Whereas the dazzling present wowed audiences, it was her outstanding thoughtfulness — each for concertgoers and close by residents — that left probably the most lasting impression.

Over the weekend, IU held the “2024 IU HEREH WORLD TOUR CONCERT ENCORE: THE WINNING” at Seoul World Cup Stadium in Mapo District. Over two days, some 100,000 followers flocked to see the singer, who returned to her dwelling floor after her intensive world tour that started in March.

With Seoul being the ultimate cease of her 18-city tour, IU additionally made historical past as the primary girl musician to headline Seoul World Cup Stadium, following famend Ok-pop artists together with PSY, G-Dragon and SEVENTEEN.

Nevertheless, it wasn’t the record-breaking numbers that stood out probably the most — it was her unwavering consideration to element and take care of all concerned.

Some 50,000 followers get pleasure from IU’s “2024 IU HEREH WORLD TOUR CONCERT ENCORE: THE WINNING” at Seoul World Cup Stadium in Mapo District, Sunday. Courtesy of EDAM Leisure

Previous to the night time’s present, IU supplied every attendee with cushions and binoculars to make sure a cushty viewing expertise. In a gesture of goodwill to the encircling group, she additionally despatched noise warnings and gift-wrapped trash baggage to native residents, with these considerate touches making headlines even earlier than the occasion.

The singer additionally addressed considerations raised on-line concerning the safety of the stadium’s grass. Some followers frightened the turf could be broken by the big crowds, with one soccer fanatic even submitting a petition asking for the live performance’s cancellation.

In response, IU’s company, EDAM Leisure, assured that the stadium’s situation was a prime precedence. “We adopted all pointers for floor use and labored intently with venue officers to guard the turf,” the company stated in a pre-show assertion.

Singer IU performs throughout her “2024 IU HEREH WORLD TOUR CONCERT ENCORE: THE WINNING” at Seoul World Cup Stadium in Mapo District, Sunday. Courtesy of EDAM Leisure

Throughout Sunday’s efficiency, IU carried out a three-hour set of 24 songs, masking hits from her 16-year profession. Her entrance was a spectacle in itself — she soared onto the stage on a flying carry, opening with fan favorites “Holssi” and “Jam Jam.”

“Welcome to the ultimate encore of IU’s first world tour in 2024,” she stated, briefly addressing the ecstatic crowd earlier than transitioning into hits like “Ah Puh,” “Bbi Bbi,” and “Obliviate,” energizing the stadium.

The live performance’s visible spectacle was a particular spotlight, with drones and fireworks illuminating the night time sky. Accompanying the stage results had been IU’s performances of hits “Superstar” and “Blueming,” which drew loud sing-alongs from the gang.

In a particular second, IU additionally debuted a brand new monitor, “Bye Summer time,” reflecting on the months spent touring.

“This tour felt just like the longest summer season of my life,” she stated. “A lot of the cities had been scorching sizzling. I do not normally like summer season, however this one wasn’t too dangerous. I did not count on to say goodbye to summer season right here in Sangam-dong, however with the cool night breeze, I am glad we may benefit from the night time collectively.”

Singer IU performs throughout her “2024 IU HEREH WORLD TOUR CONCERT ENCORE: THE WINNING” at Seoul World Cup Stadium in Mapo District, Sunday. Courtesy of EDAM Leisure

The vitality intensified because the live performance reached its climax. Explosive fireworks accompanied songs like “Shopper,” “Secret” and her beloved 2011 hit “You and I.”

Ending the principle set with the emotional ballad, “Love Wins All,” IU left the viewers with a heartfelt message. “Even in moments of anger, I hope love all the time prevails. I hope you all discover victory in every day, and should we meet once more with smiles.”

The encore that adopted was equally wealthy, that includes performances of “Shh..,” “Twenty-three,” “Strawberry Moon,” “Autumn Morning” and “Unfortunate.”

Fireworks are ignited throughout IU’s “2024 IU HEREH WORLD TOUR CONCERT ENCORE: THE WINNING,” Sunday, a two-day occasion which attracted a complete of 100,000 spectators over two days. Courtesy of Edam Leisure

Towards the top of the night time, IU shocked followers by revealing that this live performance marked a milestone — her a hundredth solo present.

“I simply discovered right now that that is my a hundredth solo live performance. It does not appear actual,” she stated, expressing gratitude to the followers who stored monitor. “As an artist, each live performance is essential, but it surely’s additional particular {that a} fan counted all of them. Even my mother did not do this.”

IU ended with a heartfelt promise. “I do not know what number of extra tons of of exhibits I am going to do earlier than my profession ends, however I am going to preserve going so long as I can. To the fan who counted, please preserve counting. Thanks all for making this milestone so significant.”