Global K-pop sensation KINGDOM–made up of members Dann, Arthur, Mujin, Louis, Ivan, Hwon and Jahan–has officially embarked on their first international tour, the “Grand America Tour.”
Before the tour started, fans were informed Mujin would not be able to participate during the first few stops of the tour because his visa application approval was delayed due to unforeseen circumstances. Luckily, the issue was resolved quickly and we were able to see Mujin and the rest of the KINGDOM members during their Sept. 10 show at San Francisco’s Cowell Theater, a waterfront venue with a spectacular view of San Francisco Bay.
As the start of the show neared, the house manager hit a triangle, prompting KINGDOM fans–known as KINGMAKER–to find their seats. The small and intimate theater buzzed with excitement as the house lights dimmed and the silhouettes of the KINGDOM members became visible on stage.
Eye-catching background projections and flashing stage lights illuminated the venue throughout the show as KINGDOM performed songs from every album in their discography. After opening with epic back-to-back performances of “Excalibur” and “Dystopia,” the group took a moment to introduce themselves and share some thoughts about touring for the first time.
“It feels very special and amazing when we’re performing in front of our KINGMAKER together,” Arthur said.
The night was filled with captivating performances of traditional-instrument-based songs, emotional ballads and high-energy EDM-esque tracks that highlighted the diversity of KINGDOM’s discography. In addition to performing their own songs, including “Song of the Wind,” “Period” and “Blinder,” one of the stages included covers of Stray Kids’ “Thunderous” and “CASE 143,” as well as Shawn Mendes’ “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back.” During every song, the members pulled off impressive choreography while maintaining stable vocals and smooth rap flows that sounded even better than they do in studio recordings.
Between songs, the KINGDOM members took several moments to interact with the audience. Their naturally charming and comedic personalities allowed them to banter with KINGMAKER as if they were the best of friends. After the last stage, staff took a group photo of the members and the audience so everyone can remember the beautiful experience shared by KINGDOM and KINGMAKER that night.
“We love you San Francisco! Thank you so much. It has been an honor,” Dann said as the show came to an end.
Get tickets to the remaining “Grand America Tour” dates here and stream KINGDOM’s latest album, History of Kingdom: Pt. VI. Mujin, below.
