Quick Read
- SEVENTEEN performed at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles on October 16 and 17, 2025, as part of their “NEW_” world tour.
- Only nine out of thirteen members performed due to military and acting commitments.
- Solo performances and new songs from their tenth anniversary album “HAPPY BURSTDAY” were featured.
- Fans were actively engaged, including humorous references to absent members.
- Joshua expressed hope for a future full-group reunion in Los Angeles.
SEVENTEEN’s Return to BMO Stadium: More Than Just a Concert
On October 16 and 17, 2025, SEVENTEEN, the globally acclaimed K-pop boy band, took center stage at Los Angeles’ BMO Stadium for a pair of performances that were more than a showcase—they were a celebration of resilience, artistry, and connection. Their “NEW_” world tour marked not only their second time at this iconic venue but also a poignant milestone: the group’s tenth anniversary and the release of their latest album, “HAPPY BURSTDAY.”
This year’s concerts carried a unique emotional weight. Out of SEVENTEEN’s thirteen members, only nine could perform—four were absent, fulfilling South Korea’s mandatory military service or pursuing acting opportunities. Yet, the absence was not a shadow, but a thread woven into the night’s narrative, as both fans and members found creative ways to honor those missing from the stage.
Solo Brilliance and Collective Energy
From the very start, it was clear that SEVENTEEN came determined to make each moment count. Individual members took solo stages, debuting new tracks from “HAPPY BURSTDAY.” Whether it was DK’s soaring vocals or Jun’s dynamic dance, each performance felt personal, almost like a gift to the audience. The solo acts were not only a testament to their growth but also a reminder of the group’s ethos—celebrating both individuality and unity.
Despite the reduced lineup, the energy inside BMO Stadium was anything but diminished. The remaining nine members—S.Coups, Joshua, Jun, Mingyu, DK, Seungkwan, Vernon, and Dino—filled the arena with their presence. Their camaraderie was palpable, often breaking into playful banter and responding to spontaneous song requests from the crowd. In one memorable exchange, the group joked about the absent members’ military service, which fans echoed by dressing up as their favorites. These moments blurred the line between performer and audience, making everyone part of the night’s story.
Musical Versatility and Signature Dance
SEVENTEEN’s versatility shone brightly throughout the shows. Vernon’s guitar and Seungkwan’s piano skills elevated renditions of songs like “Shining Star” and “Raindrops,” drawing cheers for their musicianship. But it wasn’t just about technical prowess; it was about emotional delivery. The group moved seamlessly from introspective ballads to explosive dance tracks, including “Skyfall” and “Shake It Off,” which turned the stadium into a high-energy party.
The choreography, often described as runway-inspired, saw members pairing off and strutting across the stage—a nod to their influence in the fashion world. Mingyu, a known ambassador for Dior, embodied this crossover. The opening sequence, featuring the B-side “Bad Influence,” stood out not just for its musicality but for its stylish presentation, having previously debuted at a Louis Vuitton runway show (el-balad.com).
Fan Engagement and Emotional Resonance
If there’s one thing that sets SEVENTEEN apart, it’s their relationship with their fans—the Carats. The group went out of their way to make every attendee feel seen. Whether inviting fans to sing along during classics like “Very Nice” (which, true to tradition, received multiple encores) or sharing personal messages, the concerts felt intimate despite the stadium’s scale.
Mingyu and Joshua delivered particularly heartfelt notes, expressing gratitude for the unwavering support of their Los Angeles fanbase. Their words underscored a theme running through the night: connection, even in the face of change. As the group prepares for more military enlistments, these moments of vulnerability and reassurance carried extra significance.
Setlist Surprises and Artistic Evolution
The setlist was a journey through SEVENTEEN’s past and present. Hits like “HOT,” “Rock With You,” and “Aju Nice” ignited waves of excitement. New songs, including “Thunder” and “Bad Influence” (produced by Pharrell Williams), showed the group’s willingness to experiment and push boundaries. S.Coups, the leader, reflected on their evolution, emphasizing the importance of personal expression within the group’s dynamic.
Woozi, another core member, reassured fans that this period of change—marked by military service and individual projects—was not an ending but a transition. He described it as preparation for their “next, even greater album,” hinting at the creative drive that fuels SEVENTEEN’s longevity (Reuters).
Looking Forward: Hopes for Reunion and Continued Growth
As the concerts drew to a close, Joshua’s final message resonated deeply: he expressed his wish that, next time SEVENTEEN returns to Los Angeles, all thirteen members will stand together on stage. He invited fans to promise their return, a symbolic gesture that captured the spirit of the night—a hope for unity, no matter the circumstances.
The BMO Stadium performances were not just a celebration of SEVENTEEN’s achievements but a reaffirmation of their bond with fans and with each other. The group’s journey continues, with upcoming tour dates in Florida and Washington, D.C., and a planned leg in Japan. Each stop is more than a concert—it’s a chapter in a story about resilience, growth, and the enduring power of music to bring people together.
For Carats and casual listeners alike, SEVENTEEN’s latest shows were a reminder that while the stage may change, and members may come and go, the essence of what makes this group special remains constant: a commitment to connection, creativity, and honest storytelling.
SEVENTEEN’s ability to create a memorable experience—even with a reduced lineup—speaks volumes about their artistry and the strength of their fanbase. The blend of individual talent and collective synergy, coupled with genuine engagement, suggests that their future, whether together or apart, will be defined by innovation and heartfelt connection. Fans leave not only with memories, but with anticipation for what’s next—a testament to the group’s lasting impact.