[REVIEW] Stray Kids wraps up '5-STAR Dome Tour' with memorable finale at Tokyo Dome (2024)

By Pyo Kyung-min

TOKYO ― In a remarkable two-day finale, K-pop sensation Stray Kids concluded its "Stray Kids 5-STAR Dome Tour 2023" at Tokyo Dome, Sunday. The group's sold-out concert over the weekend further cemented its status as a K-pop powerhouse, leaving a strong impact on its devoted Japanese fans.

The Sunday performance, attended by this reporter, drew a staggering 50,000 fans to the dome, the region's largest concert venue. Hours before the show began, the group's official fan base STAY gathered around the dome, eagerly awaiting the performance.

Suzuka, a 29-year-old fan, explained just how popular the group is in Japan.

"My parents also like Stray Kids. The group's popularity in Japan is nothing short of unprecedented, akin to the glories of BTS," she said.

Another fan Mietsuyo, 49, recalled falling in love with Stray Kids the moment she first saw Felix's enchanting smile in one of the group's music videos.

"I've heard that Felix and the members will perform their new song 'MEGAVERSE' at this concert and I can't contain my excitement. All I wish is for all the members to stay healthy," she said shyly.

Sota, a 18-year-old trainee from HYBE Labels Japan, shared his admiration for the group, particularly for Hyunjin, further highlighting the group's presence in the country.

"I think Hyunjin is really cool. I aspire to be like him. When I auditioned for HYBE, I said that my dream was to be like Hyunjin even though he belongs to JYP Entertainment," he confessed, jokingly revealing his covert attendance at the concert.

Even before the group appeared on the stage, fans fervently chanted the group's name, hinting at its immense popularity. Stray Kids didn't disappoint, delivering a string of electrifying performances that set them apart from other fourth-generation K-pop acts.

The members communicated directly in Japanese, displaying their passion for Japanese fans. Changbin noted, "I feel the best being here at Tokyo Dome," prompting an enthusiastic response from fans.

Stray Kids' triumphant two-day performances at f*ckuoka PayPay Dome, Vantelin Dome Nagoya and Kyocera Dome Osaka earlier this year had already set the stage for their grand finale at Tokyo Dome, one of the most coveted concert halls in Japan. These previous concerts drew staggering audiences of 75,000, 76,000 and 90,000 fans, respectively.

Their final performance in Tokyo featured a mesmerizing stage setup and performances, including chart-topping hits like "MIROH," "God's Menu" and "CASE 143," captivating a total of some 100,000 fans over the weekend. With this concert, Stray Kids made history as the first fourth-generation K-pop boy band to perform at all four major dome concert halls in Japan.

The concert also featured show-stopping solo performances by the members. I.N. showcased his individual talent with the song "Hug Me" and Lee Know serenaded the audience with the heartfelt ballad "Limbo," while other members Bang Chan, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix and Seungmin treated fans to previews of unreleased tracks.

Changbin even took a playful mid-concert snack break with chicken breast. Drawing laughter from the audience, he mischievously quipped, "How often do you see an idol eating protein mid-performance?"

The concert was also broadcast live in movie theaters across Japan, offering those unable to secure Tokyo Dome tickets a chance to savor the atmosphere. Wandering around the dome ahead of the show, Kayuu, 27, and Kokoro, 21, said they will head to a local cinema for a "Live Viewing" experience, as soon as the concert begins.

"We attended yesterday's performance. Neither of us has been able to get tickets for today, so we're just here to feel the atmosphere of the concert hall. After this, We'll attend the 'Live Viewing' event and enjoy the show together," they said.

The Sunday performance concluded with a touching moment as the members watched videos with Japanese fans, reminiscing about their journey from their debut showcase in Japan. The members were overwhelmed by gratitude as they looked up at the 50,000 fans who filled the dome, all holding up placards reading "Thank you for being the light of STAY," prepared as a surprise event for the members.

As they wrapped up the fascinating night, Felix expressed his emotions, saying, "It has been a long journey. Ever since my mom came to see my performance, she has been extremely happy, something she hadn't felt in a long time. Thank you for allowing me to prove to my family what I've achieved. This is the most precious gift you're offering us. Thank you all for being here."

Bang Chan, holding back tears, made a heartfelt promise to their fans. "Thank you for being a part of this perfect moment. We will be back," he vowed.

Stray Kids has come a long way since their pre-debut track "Hellevator," composing all their title songs and topping the U.S. Billboard 200 chart three times, leading up to "5-STAR" in June.

Their artistic talent and self-produced albums have not only won them accolades but also the unwavering support of fans praying for their continued safety and good health.

"I'm incredibly grateful that the members chose to be idols, entertaining us. If there's one wish I could make, it's for the members to stay healthy and continue to dazzle us for a long time," said 18-year-old fan Ayane from Kyoto.