KCON finally came to Hong Kong!

CJ ENM's trademark K-culture festival KCON kicked off its first edition this year on March 30 and 31 at AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong. It was also the first time for the festival to be held in Hong Kong.

The two-day show featured a range of K-pop acts from 2nd gen such as Highlight and SISTAR 19, all the way to 5th gen rookies such as JO1, BOYNEXTDOOR and ZEROBASEONE, performing the latest K-pop songs as well as timeless hits to the audiences. 

One of the special segments of KCON show is "Dream Stage", where K-pop idols would select fans to dance with them on stage. The "Dream Stage" on the first day was aespa's "Next Level", and the second day was VIVIZ's "Maniac". After the performance, both groups expressed their gratitude to fans who performed with them together and took a group photo with them. 

Another highlight of the show is special stages by rookie groups. On the first day, BOYNEXTDOOR did a cover of their label senior BTS's "DOPE", showcasing a powerful side that is different from their cheerful, bright image. On the next day, ZEROBASEONE surprised the audience by covering Wanna One's debut song "Energetic", bringing nostalgic feelings among K-pop fans who followed Produce 101 Season 2. 

Apart from rookie groups, 2nd gen groups also performed their old songs alongside their new releases. Highlight performed their first No.1 track on music show "Shock" and party song "Beautiful Night", while SISTAR 19 performed the legendary summer song "Loving U" and their unit debut song "Ma Boy". 

Another signature element of KCON other than the show was the convention, which featured various booths on K-food such as Korean beef, fish cake, ramen, and Makgeolli (rice wine), K-tourism, K-movies and more for participants to experience different aspects of Korean Wave.

K-pop fans could also share their love for K-pop by taking part in various interactive activities such as taking photos with the exhibits of K-pop acts that are performing at KCON, leaving messages for their favorite K-pop artists on the message wall, meeting K-pop fans and getting fan-made slogans and merchandise at fan club booths, and taking part in K-pop random play dance. 

Several K-pop acts such as xikers and Hyolyn even performed at the convention. They all took the opportunity to interact closely with fans and respond to their messages, turning the show into a mini fan meeting. 

Following Hong Kong, KCON will be held in Japan on May 10-12 and LA on July 26-28. Europe and Saudi Arabia will also be hosting the festival later this year, and the exact schedule is yet to be announced. 

Were you at KCON Hong Kong, and how did you find the shows and convention activities? Share your experience and thoughts in the comments!