DAVIDE K-POP

On the 14th of July, Stray Kids took the stage at BST Hyde Park 2024, delivering an electrifying performance that mesmerised STAY in London. But before diving into the unforgettable night, let’s take a brief look at who Stray Kids are and their journey to stardom.

Stray Kids, often abbreviated as SKZ, is a South Korean boy band formed by JYP Entertainment. The group debuted on March 25, 2018, with the EP “I Am NOT,” following their pre-debut reality show of the same name. The group consists of eight members: Bang Chan (leader), Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N. Known for their powerful performances, self-produced music, and diverse discography, Stray Kids have rapidly climbed the ranks in the K-pop industry. Their latest work, the highly anticipated album “ATE,” is set to release in just a few days, adding to the excitement surrounding their current world tour.

A Night to Remember at BST Hyde Park

As the sun was setting over Hyde Park, the anticipation in the air was palpable. The crowd erupted as Stray Kids kicked off their set with the explosive “S-Class,” setting the tone for the night. The energy was infectious, and it only grew with each song. The festival exploded with screams as this track ignited the night. The intensity only grew with each song, keeping everyone on their feet with “FREEZE.” “Super Bowl” showcased a perfect blend of powerful vocals and intricate choreography, while “TOPLINE” highlighted their lyrical prowess and dynamic stage presence, and STAY sang along too, it was very powerful!

The thunderous beats of “Thunderous” combined with synchronized dance moves created a visual spectacle. “ITEM” was one of the standout performances of the night, leaving a lasting impression. The crowd couldn’t get enough of the energetic delivery during “DOMINO,” and “Lonely St.” offered a heartfelt performance that resonated deeply with the audience.

A pleasant surprise came with “Social Path (Korean ver.),” as this Japanese-origin song was performed in Korean. This recent addition to their repertoire was a treat for me as I was not expecting that. “Charmer,” a personal favourite, had its catchy tune making everyone dance, while “My Pace” kept the energy relentless, with the crowd mirroring the enthusiasm.

“Back Door” was an absolute classic and a delight to hear live. Felix’s iconic part in “MANIAC” had everyone dancing along, creating a memorable moment. Perhaps everyone’s favourite, “God’s Menu” was a perfect way to near the end of the main set.

For the encore, Stray Kids didn’t hold back. The encore set included “LALALALA,” “Victory Song,” “MIROH,” another round of “TOPLINE,” “Haven,” and “MEGAVERSE.” Each song was delivered with the same vigour and passion, keeping the energy levels high until the very end. Their interaction with the fans, known as STAY, was heartfelt and genuine, making the experience even more special.

The night felt too short, a testament to how engrossing and captivating Stray Kids’ performance was. Their stage presence is undeniable, with each member showcasing their unique talents. As they concluded the show, leader Bang Chan reminded everyone of their upcoming album “ATE” and hinted at a European leg of their world tour, leaving fans in eager anticipation.

Stray Kids’ performance at BST Hyde Park was nothing short of a 5-Star experience. They ATE! Their ability to connect with the audience, combined with their extraordinary talent, ensures that they will continue to rise in the global music scene. London STAYs can’t wait to welcome them back soon, including myself!

Photos Thanks to BST Hyde Park.