Why Kanye West Performed Live in South Korea
Kanye West’s decision to host a live performance in South Korea has sparked curiosity among fans and media. After years of avoiding live shows, Kanye surprised everyone by delivering a jaw-dropping performance in Seoul. This article delves into the reasons behind Kanye’s choice, the impact of his visit, and the unique cultural significance that made South Korea a fitting stage for this iconic event.
Kanye’s Return to Live Performances
Kanye West has become notorious for avoiding live performances, with his last major live show occurring in 2014. However, on August 23rd, 2024, he broke his self-imposed hiatus by performing in South Korea, to the delight of over 35,000 fans. What made this event even more remarkable was that Kanye didn’t just perform a few songs—he delivered over 70 tracks during a three-hour set, thrilling fans with an extensive live experience.
Why South Korea?
Kanye’s connection with South Korea goes back to 2010, when he performed at a hip-hop festival in Gangwon Province. This past experience left a lasting impression on him, as did the warm reception from Korean fans. Furthermore, Kanye has expressed admiration for South Korean culture, including its food and fashion, as evidenced by his interactions with fans and local communities during his stay. This affinity for the country might have influenced his decision to choose Seoul as the destination for his return to the live stage.
Additionally, his live performance coincided with the release of his new album. South Korea was one of the few locations chosen for a special listening party, underscoring the importance of the country to Kanye and his global fanbase. Despite also planning an event in Taiwan, Kanye canceled that in favor of focusing on South Korea, further highlighting the significance of this particular show.
Defying Expectations
Kanye’s live show wasn’t the typical “listening party” event. What started as a gathering to listen to his new album evolved into a full-fledged concert. Kanye, famously known for unpredictable behavior, kept fans on their toes. Midway through the event, Kanye grabbed the microphone and treated the audience to an impromptu live performance. The combination of spontaneous energy and the intimate connection with the crowd made this a once-in-a-lifetime experience for attendees.
The performance was filled with personal moments, including Kanye interacting with fans and addressing controversies, such as his fallout with Adidas. The crowd, aware of his history, even shouted “F Adidas,” which caught Kanye’s attention and earned them a response.
Cultural and Personal Connections
Kanye’s personal life also played a role in the uniqueness of the event. He was accompanied by his wife, Bianca Censori, and his children, adding a personal touch to his visit. Notably, Kanye was seen enjoying local delicacies like Korean BBQ and blending in with the local culture during his extended stay.
One of the main reasons Kanye may have chosen South Korea is the sense of freedom he experienced during his visit. South Korea is one of the few countries where Taylor Swift, one of Kanye’s biggest competitors, couldn’t sell out a concert—a fact that might have contributed to his decision to stage a performance there and set himself apart from other global artists.
