On January 27, 2025, ATEEZ transformed London’s O2 Arena into an immersive world of music, storytelling, and electrifying energy with their Towards the Light: Will to Power tour. More than just a concert, the night unfolded like a cinematic experience—each performance seamlessly woven into the grand narrative that has defined ATEEZ’s artistry since their debut. From pulse-pounding anthems to emotional ballads, the show was a testament to their ability to merge stunning visuals, intricate lore, and raw performance power into something truly unforgettable.
A Grand Entrance and High-Octane Opening
As the arena plunged into darkness, dancers emerged from the stage, setting the mood for the night’s journey. ATEEZ’s universe—rich with rebellion, destiny, and self-discovery—came to life as a luminous orb poured a cascade of light, heralding their arrival. Then, the first beat of ‘Crazy Form’ hit, and the members stormed the stage, clad in sleek, militaristic outfits that nodded to their lore of fearless rebels fighting against oppression.
The show’s pacing was relentless in the best way possible. ‘Say My Name’ followed, its anthemic call-and-response making the crowd feel like an army rallying behind their leaders. Bursts of fire and dynamic stage effects heightened the intensity, while synchronized choreography showcased the group’s signature precision.
Despite the grand production, ATEEZ never lost sight of the details. From subtle glances exchanged between members to symbolic hand movements mirroring their past music videos, every element felt intentional—like hidden pieces of a puzzle only Atiny (their devoted fandom) could decode.
A Journey Through Sound, Emotion, and Lore
Beyond their vocal and dance prowess, ATEEZ proved themselves as true performers, fully embodying their characters through immersive acting. Their facial expressions and body language conveyed every ounce of emotion, from defiance to sorrow, making each moment feel like a scene from an unfolding epic. Whether it was Hongjoong’s commanding presence, Seonghwa’s intensity, or San’s ability to shift between anguish and resolve in an instant, their theatricality added depth to their performances. They weren’t just singing and dancing—they were living the story, proving that ATEEZ are more than idols; they are storytellers in every sense of the word.
Halfway through the concert, the energy shifted as the group transitioned into their storytelling-driven tracks. The stage transformed into an eerie, moonlit battlefield as ‘Cyberpunk’ and ‘HALAZIA’ played back-to-back, bringing a sense of urgency and resistance. Blue-tinted lighting mirrored the dystopian world depicted in their music videos, while glitching digital effects hinted at a deeper struggle between freedom and control.
Special unit stages further enriched the storytelling. Hongjoong and Seonghwa’s ‘MATZ’ was a bold declaration of leadership and camaraderie, their synergy electrifying as they blended sharp rap, commanding vocals, and playful confidence. In contrast, ‘IT’s You’, performed by San, Yeosang, and Wooyoung, created a delicate, emotional atmosphere. Their harmonies carried quiet longing, with San’s evocative delivery, Wooyoung’s vulnerability, and Yeosang’s ethereal presence making the performance feel almost dreamlike.
Mingi and Yunho’s ‘Youth’ brought a wave of nostalgia, reflecting on the beauty and struggles of growing up. Yunho’s warm vocals and Mingi’s introspective rap felt like a heartfelt conversation between friends, balancing sentimentality with hope. Then came Jongho’s solo stage with ‘Everything’—the emotional peak of the night. Alone under a spotlight, his voice soared with raw sincerity, leaving many in the crowd visibly moved.
Each unit performance carried its own energy—whether powerful, nostalgic, or intimate—pulling fans deeper into the experience. Whether through strength, longing, reflection, or vulnerability, ATEEZ proved that their music is more than just sound—it’s a journey, felt in every note.
A Triumphant Finale and an Unforgettable Encore
As the show reached its climax, ‘WONDERLAND’ and ‘Guerrilla’ sent the energy soaring one last time. The pounding bass and flashing lights created a near-military march, with the crowd chanting in sync as if part of the revolution ATEEZ had been leading since their debut.
For the encore, the atmosphere shifted as ATEEZ traded their elaborate stage outfits for casual looks from their own merch line, letting loose and celebrating with their fans. Free from structured choreography, they moved naturally, laughing and vibing together on stage. ‘Eternal Sunshine’ and ‘Dreamy Day’ closed out the night with a sense of warmth and gratitude. As confetti rained down, the members stood side by side, taking in the sea of light sticks flickering like stars—a fitting image for a group whose journey has always been about moving towards the light.
A Connection That Transcended the Stage
What made this night truly special wasn’t just the impressive production—it was the way ATEEZ connected with their audience. Between performances, the members took time to speak directly to fans, sharing heartfelt reflections and joking around in English. Hongjoong, ever the charismatic leader, expressed gratitude for their unwavering support, while the members’ words on perseverance drew emotional cheers. Unlike some performances where scripted interactions feel distant, ATEEZ’s sincerity shone through. They read fan signs, responded to cheers with genuine enthusiasm. It wasn’t just a performance—it was a conversation, a shared experience between artist and fan.
More than just a concert, Towards the Light: Will to Power was a theatrical experience, a continuation of the intricate storyline ATEEZ has been crafting for years. Every detail, from the setlist to the visuals, felt like a piece of something greater, drawing longtime fans deeper into their universe while captivating newcomers with sheer spectacle. As the final notes faded and the stage lights dimmed, one thing was certain—this wasn’t the end of their journey, but another thrilling chapter. And for those lucky enough to witness it, it felt like stepping into a story far bigger than a single night.
All photos by Andrea Pavlou – do not use without permission.
