The group ILLIT demonstrated its popularity in Japan by igniting cheers and chants during its first fan concert.
ILLIT (Yoona, Minju, Mocha, Wonhee, Iroha) held the fan concert '2025 ILLIT GLITTER DAY IN JAPAN' (hereinafter 'GLITTER DAY') at Pia Arena MM in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, on April 10-11, engaging with around 20,000 audience members.
As the first solo performance ahead of their official debut in Japan next month, it heightened local fans' expectations. The general admission tickets quickly sold out, and even the additional limited-view and standing tickets opened up were all snapped up, showing the high level of interest in the team.
That day, ILLIT showcased enhanced capabilities and a variety of charms. They started with the title track 'Borrowed Cat (Do the Dance)' from their mini album 'bomb,' released in June, and presented a total of 13 songs including 'Tick-Tack,' 'Lucky Girl Syndrome,' 'My World,' 'Magnetic,' 'little monster,' 'oops!,' and 'jellyous,' receiving great response. A cover performance of TWICE's 'What is Love?' was also added, entertaining the fans.
In particular, when the stage for the track 'Topping' from ILLIT's first Japanese single 'Toki Yo Tomare' (original title 時よ止まれ) was unveiled for the first time on the 11th, cheers erupted. The lively melody was matched with a refreshing and vibrant performance. A joint stage with popular Japanese singer-songwriter noa, who participated in writing and composing the song, created a synergy that thrilled the fans.
The members' communication skills also shone through. ILLIT approached the audience throughout the performance, breathing closely with them, and in the talk segment, the Korean members, although clumsy, actively spoke in Japanese, drawing attention. They also selected familiar J-pop songs for individual cover stages, captivating the audience.
As the encore stage continued, the excitement in the venue rose even further. ILLIT passionately sang 'Almond Chocolate,' which caused a reverse chart surge since its release in February, along with 'IYKYK (If You Know You Know)' and 'I'll Like You,' as the fans responded with chants and cheers.
At the end of the concert, ILLIT expressed, "Hearing the voices of GLLIT (the fandom name) calling for an encore made me emotional. I was really grateful to be able to hold a solo performance in such a large venue, and I was truly happy to see the audience packed." They added, "We will work hard to provide you with positive energy through our music in the future."
Prior to the concert, the pop-up store held from April 2 to 11 in Shibuya, Tokyo, ended successfully. Fans aged 10 to 20, regardless of gender, visited evenly, seeking official merchandise and light sticks for 'GLITTER DAY' as well as albums.
ILLIT will continue the 'GLITTER DAY' performance at Osaka Castle Hall in Osaka on September 3-4. Ahead of this, they will officially debut by releasing their first Japanese single 'Toki Yo Tomare' on September 1.
[Photo] Provided by Belif Lab.
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