The world's largest K-POP fan & artist festival returns to Los Angeles from August 1-3 at Crypto.com Arena and LA Convention Center with an impressive showcase lineup featuring 10 teams across various genres. 

New X Stage Platform 

KCON LA 2025 introduces the innovative 'X Stage', a platform specifically designed to maximize artist-fan interaction. This special showcase stage will feature K-POP rookies, indie musicians discovered through CJ Cultural Foundation's TuneUp program, and skilled artists spanning multiple genres. The X Stage represents KCON's commitment to providing intimate settings where fans can discover new artists while giving performers a chance to connect directly with global audiences. 

Rising Stars Take the Stage 

The lineup brings together an exciting mix of emerging talent. Super rookies 82MAJOR, HITGS, ifeye, Kik5o, and NEWBEAT are already gaining attention as next-generation global K-POP artists. These groups represent the future of K-POP with their fresh sounds and dynamic performances. 

Singer-songwriter So Soobin, discovered through the TuneUp program, will make her US debut after successful performances in Japan. She joins male solo artists from Wavy Labels including from20, HELLO GLOOM, Kang Yuchan, and Lim Sejun, each bringing their unique musical colors to the festival. 

Special Berklee Collaboration 

In an exciting cultural exchange, dance students from Boston Conservatory at Berklee will present 'KVibe', a creative K-POP performance showcasing the genre's global influence. This collaboration reinforces K-POP's established status in the world pop market while opening doors for diverse talent to enter the industry. The performance promises to demonstrate how K-POP has become a truly international phenomenon. 

Gateway to Global Success 

These showcases serve as more than just performances. They provide crucial opportunities for artists from small and medium-sized agencies to enter the global market, while offering fans the excitement of discovering their next favorite artist. Last year's KCON JAPAN featured 13 showcase teams and received widespread praise for creating meaningful connections between performers and audiences. This year promises to continue that tradition with even more diverse offerings. 

KCON's Growing Impact 

Since its humble beginnings in Irvine in 2012, KCON has experienced remarkable growth. The festival recently surpassed 2 million on-site attendees at KCON JAPAN 2025, reaching a total cumulative audience of 2.1 million. Last year marked a historic milestone when KCON became the first K-POP festival broadcast nationwide on CW Network during primetime, bringing K-POP to mainstream American television. 

What's Next at KCON LA 2025 

Under the theme "KLOVER'S CLUB FAIR," this year's festival promises unpredictable fun with evolved stages and enhanced fandom programs. Attendees can expect unique experiences only available at KCON, from surprise performances to exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities. With its diverse showcase lineup and innovative programming, KCON LA 2025 continues to be the premier destination for K-POP fans while serving as the launching pad for tomorrow's global stars.

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