ATEEZ’s concert at London’s O2 Arena on February 22, 2023, was nothing short of a spectacular showcase of their power as performers. The eight-member K-pop group delivered a night full of intense energy, intricate choreography, and emotional fan engagement, drawing in a packed arena of 20,000 ATINYs (their fans).
The concert opened with an electrifying set of dark, dystopian-themed tracks like “Answer,” “Sector 1,” and “The Ring,” setting the stage for their signature high-octane performances. Their iconic song “Hala Hala” came early in the set, showcasing the group’s sharp, synchronized moves. Throughout the show, Ateez seamlessly shifted between moods, offering a balance between heavy beats and softer, more nostalgic ballads like “Mist,” “Sunrise,” and “My Way.” These moments created a golden, dreamlike atmosphere that contrasted beautifully with their intense numbers.
One of the concert’s standout moments was during the performance of “Cyberpunk,” where the group, dressed in leather outfits, gave a sultry chair dance that had the crowd cheering. San’s body roll became a fan-favorite moment, and the playful banter between members, especially during impromptu moments like push-up challenges, further bonded the group with the audience.
Songs like “Rocky” and “Guerrilla” ignited the arena with fans passionately chanting and screaming along. The latter, with its hard-hitting punk-rock energy, had the entire arena shaking as fans chanted, “Break the wall!” Mingi’s powerful rapping and newly pink hair, combined with the group’s dynamic vocals and choreography, kept the energy at an all-time high.
The concert was not just about stunning performances. The members frequently spoke to the audience, engaging in heartfelt and humorous interactions. They even led fans in coordinated lightstick waves and played with inflatable balloons, blurring the line between fan service and raw entertainment. The group’s connection with the audience was palpable, especially during the encore, which included fan-favorite ballads like “Turbulence” and “Celebrate.”
ATEEZ closed the night with “The Real,” sending fans off in a confetti-filled finale. The show was a celebration of their growth and the deep bond between ATEEZ and their fans, leaving UK ATINYs eagerly awaiting their return.
In summary, ATEEZ’s concert in London was a mesmerizing blend of spectacle and sincerity, solidifying their reputation as one of the most dynamic acts in K-pop today.
Photos by Andrea Pavlou – Do not reuse without permission or credit.