I’ll never forget my first concert. I was 14, and Why Don’t We, my then ultimate boy band, was coming to Singapore. Naturally, missing it was out of the question.
The moment I stepped into the venue, it felt like stepping into another world. The stage lights dimmed, the music started, and the energy of the crowd was electric.
But just as they began my favorite song, I felt a nudge against my arm. Annoyed, I turned to see a girl next to me looking pale and unsteady. She was on the verge of fainting. I froze.
Do I miss this once-in-a-lifetime moment? Or do I help?
In the end, I grabbed her hand and started doing breathing exercises with her. People around us noticed and jumped in to help, asking security for water. That moment didn’t just save her, it showed me that concerts are more than a place for music, they’re a space where acts of kindness unfold.
The K-POP culture: Fans to Family
Fast forward to today, and my love for concerts has only grown, especially K-POP ones. Lucky for me, living in Singapore means having access to one of the top destinations for live performances. ITZY, Treasure, NCT, Enhypen – you name it, I’ve been there!
It’s no surprise, really. According to the Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth, Singapore boasts top-notch infrastructure, excellent amenities, safety, efficiency, and vibrant cultural offerings. These factors make our little red dot an irresistible choice for international artists to host their concerts.
And the best part about K-Pop concerts? No, not the music but the sense of community.
Whether it’s chatting while queuing to enter the venue, or connecting online through Telegram groups or social media platforms, the common interest and shared excitement creates an instant bond.
It is easy to strike up a conversation with them given that all of us have similar interests. Some of my favorite conversation starters are “Who’s your bias?” or “How long have you been stanning this group?”
And let’s not forget the free fan-made merch, affectionately known as fan support. From banners to bracelets, K-pop fans go all out creating and distributing goodies to fellow fans.
Kayla Yeo, 20, an avid concertgoer, recalled her experience at SEVENTEEN’s 2022 Be The Sun concert, where she went around the venue to collect fan support with her friends, “It’s like an unspoken love language that makes every concert feel extra special,” she said.
Unwritten Rules of Concert Etiquette
But not every concert memory is perfect. We’ve all seen those TikToks of fans holding up massive signboards or shoving their way to the front.
@mustsharenews Fr the battle of the fans 🌚 #mustsharenews #sgnews #singapore #tiktoksg #blackpink
It’s frustrating, isn’t it?
Don’t worry, I’ve been there, and I’m here to share a quick guide to concert etiquette that’ll keep the vibes positive for everyone:
- Be mindful of your phones.
It’s natural to want to record your favourite moments, but be considerate of the people standing behind you. Holding your phones too high obstructs their view, so keep them at your eye level. The same goes for fanboards–keep them small, raising them up only when it’s appropriate.
- Pushing and squeezing is a huge no-no.
Trying to get to the front isn’t just annoying; it’s dangerous. Trust me, you don’t need to be up close to enjoy the show. The energy is everywhere.
- Avoid standing in a seating section.
This might be a bit controversial, but it’s best to stay seated in a seating section. Standing up blocks the view for those behind you, who might have paid for a more relaxed concert experience.
- Cheer, don’t scream
Your enthusiasm is always welcome as it adds to the atmosphere. But screaming directly into someone’s ear? Not so much. Cheer loudly, but keep it respectful, especially in tight spaces.
Concerts are meant to be enjoyable, so let’s try to make each other’s experience an amazing one. They’re not just about the artists on stage—they’re about the fans, the shared energy, and those small acts of kindness that make the night extra special. Who knows? Maybe I’ll see you at the next one! (And if you do spot me, don’t be shy—say hi!)
What are some of your favorite concert moments? Let us know!