From music festivals sponsored by broadcast networks to long-running awards ceremonies, the shift to hosting events in international venues has become so widespread that holding these events in South Korea is increasingly rare.
This trend has sparked dissatisfaction among South Korean fans, who feel left behind despite having contributed significantly to the global success of K-Pop. Many fans lament the logistical and financial burdens of traveling abroad, to countries like Japan, Indonesia or Thailand, to attend these events.
There are various reasons why organizers choose to host awards ceremonies overseas rather than in South Korea. Industry insiders point to financial factors as the main reason. One organizer explained: “In the end, it’s all about money. Securing investment to hold events abroad can produce significant profits that are harder to achieve domestically.”
These investments cover costs such as venue rental, artist fees, theatrical production and broadcast rights. The greater the investment, the less financial effort will be for the organizers. Additionally, overseas events often generate substantial revenue from ticket sales.
The financial attractiveness of hosting events abroad is undeniable. Countries like Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand are popular locations due to the high demand for K-pop among local fans. Unlike South Korea, where ticket prices are capped, international events often charge higher prices, with VIP seats ranging from $250 to $290. Additionally, venues in South Korea often lack the capacity welcome the large number of fans.
Another industry professional highlighted the logistical challenges of hosting such events in South Korea, “We understand the importance of holding award shows in South Korea and take it into consideration every year. However, logistical difficulties make it an uphill battle.”
This shift reflects K-pop’s growing global presence, but also highlights the challenges of balancing international expansion with maintaining a connection to its national roots.
