The South Korean powerhouse boy band Seventeen has successfully wrapped up a historic concert tour across Japan's most iconic dome venues. The tour, a significant segment of their global 'NEW_' itinerary, concluded with a powerful finale at the Fukuoka PayPay Dome on December 20 and 21.
A Record-Breaking Dome Circuit
According to an official statement from their agency, Pledis Entertainment, released on December 22 and reported by Yonhap News, the tour attracted a staggering combined audience of 420,000 fans across 10 sold-out performances. The month-long journey covered the nation's four premier dome venues: Vantelin Dome Nagoya, Kyocera Dome Osaka, Tokyo Dome, and finally, Fukuoka PayPay Dome. Industry reports highlight the immense value of the Japanese market for K-pop, which generated an estimated Rs 8,400 crore (120 billion KRW) in concert revenue during 2024 alone.
Strategic Setlist and Localized Content
Seventeen's Japanese tour leg demonstrated a smart localization strategy crucial for major acts in regional markets. The setlist was a carefully curated mix of their Korean hits and exclusive Japanese content. Fans were treated to performances of their fifth album's title track 'THUNDER' alongside Japanese original songs like 'Not Alone' and 'Power of Love'. The group also performed Japanese-language versions of beloved fan favorites such as 'HIGHLIGHT' and 'Rock with you'. This approach allows them to maintain a consistent global brand while deeply connecting with local audiences.
Addressing Military Service and Future Plans
During the emotional closing remarks at the tour's end, the members directly addressed the reality of mandatory South Korean military enlistment, which is currently affecting their thirteen-member lineup. They expressed a hopeful sentiment, stating, "We hope the day comes soon when all 13 of us can stand on stage together," and vowed to "keep running hard" until that reunion. This acknowledgment underscores a common challenge for large Korean boy groups, where staggered military service can impact activities for several years.
Looking ahead, Seventeen is not slowing down. The group has already confirmed ambitious plans for an Asian stadium tour scheduled for early 2026. This move signals their intention to scale up to even larger outdoor venues across the region, building on the immense momentum generated by their recent dome success. The transition from domes to stadiums marks a significant step in their touring career and reflects their sustained commercial appeal and growing fanbase.
