In a major announcement that has sent waves through the music industry, Korean Broadcasting System (KBS) has confirmed the hosting lineup for the highly anticipated '2025 Music Bank Global Festival in Japan'. The prestigious event will be held over two spectacular nights at one of Asia's most iconic venues.
Historic Venue and Hosting Powerhouse
Actor-singer Lee Jun-young and IVE's star member Jang Won-young have been selected as the masters of ceremony for both nights of the festival, scheduled for December 13-14, 2025. The event will take place at Tokyo's National Stadium, marking a significant milestone as the first-ever K-pop concert to be held at this legendary 60,000-capacity venue.
This represents a groundbreaking moment for Korean music's presence in Japan, as the stadium has traditionally been reserved for major sporting events including soccer matches and Olympic competitions. The festival will feature an impressive lineup of approximately 24 musical acts, showcasing the incredible global reach of K-pop entertainment.
Jang Won-young brings her extensive experience to the stage, returning for her fourth consecutive year as a Music Bank festival MC. Meanwhile, Lee Jun-young adds his rising star power, fresh from acclaimed performances in popular dramas such as 'The Tale of Lady Ok.'
Star-Studded Lineup Revealed
The first night on December 13 promises an electrifying showcase with 11 confirmed acts led by powerhouse groups RIIZE, ATEEZ, and ITZY. The impressive roster also includes TOMORROW X TOGETHER, ENHYPEN, NMIXX, BOYNEXTDOOR, ILLIT, KickFlip, Hearts2Hearts, with special guest appearance by J-pop group Snow Man.
This carefully curated blend of fourth- and fifth-generation K-pop stars with J-pop crossover appeal demonstrates the festival's commitment to cultural exchange. ATEEZ and ITZY, who delivered standout performances that dominated the 2024 edition, are expected to bring their signature high-energy sets to the stage.
The event will feature assigned seating with tickets priced at ¥22,000 (approximately $140 USD). The unprecedented booking of the National Stadium for a K-pop event underscores Japan's enthusiastic embrace of entertainment juggernauts like HYBE and JYP Entertainment, whose artists have consistently shattered local music charts.
Second Night Escalates the Excitement
December 14 raises the stakes even higher with an expanded lineup of 13 spectacular acts. The night will feature TVXQ's Yunho, Stray Kids, IVE, &TEAM, xikers, ZEROBASEONE, TWS, NCT WISH, NEXZ, izna, KiiiKiii, CORTIS, and the popular NiziU.
This diverse selection pits global stadium-filling artists against promising rising rookies, creating an dynamic musical experience. Stray Kids come to the stage fresh from their RIAA platinum certification triumphs, while IVE adds extra excitement as MC Jang Won-young will share the stage with her own group, promising maximum fan service.
The inclusion of Japanese acts like NiziU and &TEAM ensures a rich cultural fusion that celebrates the musical connection between Korea and Japan. The event will offer VIP ticket upgrades for fans seeking closer encounters with their favorite artists.
MC Chemistry and Global Broadcast
The hosting duo brings complementary strengths that promise to captivate the massive audience. Lee Jun-young contributes his charismatic gravitas honed across more than 20 drama series, while Jang Won-young offers her poised idol presence refined through years of Music Bank hosting that has previously captivated viewers in 142 countries.
Fans are already buzzing with anticipation about potential banter and chemistry between the two hosts, especially with the added dynamic of Jang's IVE performing on the second night. The festival will extend its reach far beyond the sold-out stadium when it airs on broadcast December 30 at 8:30 PM KST on KBS 2TV, allowing global audiences to experience the spectacle.
This historic event represents not just another music festival, but a significant cultural moment that demonstrates the powerful global influence of K-pop and its ability to break new ground in international markets.
