GOKPOP | Exclusive K-News in Malaysia & Singapore

2024 CNBLUE Live in Asia 'VOYAGE into X Malaysia

Twice the Joy: CNBLUE Delights Malaysian Fans Again For VOYAGE into X Tour

Thursday, January 02, 2025

Fans of CNBLUE were treated to a rare delight this year as the beloved Korean band made their second visit to Malaysia in 2024. After an electrifying performance in Kuala Lumpur last April during their "CNBLUENTITY" tour, the trio returned on December 7 for the Malaysia stop of their "2024 CNBLUE Live in Asia 'VOYAGE into X'" tour. Held at the iconic Arena of Stars in Genting Highlands, the concert drew fans from all corners of the country, eager to experience the band’s musical journey once again.

"VOYAGE into X" embodies the themes of the ocean and cosmos, symbolizing CNBLUE’s continuous exploration of new musical territories. In contrast to April’s blue-themed aesthetic, this concert embraced festive red hues, aligning with the Christmas and year-end celebratory spirit. Fans, donning vibrant red outfits, contributed to the lively atmosphere, underscoring their excitement for the band's return.

The concert began with an electrifying opening, as CNBLUE kicked off their setlist with iconic tracks “In My Head,” “Where You Are,” and “I’m Sorry.” The trio seamlessly transitioned between their classics and songs from their latest mini-album, "X," released in October 2024. Fans swayed and sang along to new tracks like “Sleepless Night,” “BAD BAD,” “Racer,” “To My Love,” “Personal Color,” and “Tonight.”

Familiar hits such as “I’m a Loner,” “Then, Now and Forever,” “Intuition,” “Cinderella,” and “Young Forever” further energized the crowd, culminating in the fan-favorite “You’re So Fine” as the final encore. Each performance showcased the band’s versatility, musical prowess, and ability to connect deeply with their fans.

While the night was filled with excitement and nostalgia, we noted a difference in energy compared to the "CNBLUENTITY" stop in Kuala Lumpur earlier this year. The April concert left an indelible mark, setting a high standard that some felt was not entirely matched this time. Nevertheless, the Genting Highlands performance still delivered moments of brilliance, with the band’s talent shining through in every song.

As the night concluded, the enduring connection between CNBLUE and their Malaysian fans remained evident. Despite mixed reactions to the concert’s overall vibe, we remain grateful for the band’s commitment and effort. Fans eagerly anticipate what the band’s next voyage will bring, confident that CNBLUE’s journey is far from over.

Photo credit: Official photos from organiser

DPR

DPR The Dream Reborn Tour in Malaysia: A Night to Remember!

Thursday, January 02, 2025

DPR turned up the heat in Kuala Lumpur on December 18, 2024, during their epic "Dream Reborn World Tour" stop. Fans (aka DREAMers) packed the Mega Star Arena, buzzing with excitement for a night of unforgettable vibes and jaw-dropping performances.

From the moment the lights dimmed, DPR brought their A-game. DPR ARTIC kicked off the night with a bang, delivering an electrifying opening act. Backed by stunning visuals and party-like anthems, ARTIC performed crowd favorites like “Escape,” “Dream,” and the high-energy “Do Or Die Remix,” setting the perfect tone for what was to come.

Now performing SO BEAUTIFUL 💗#DPR #dreamperfectregime #thedreamreborntour2024 #THEDREAMBORNTOURinKL #DPRinKL #DPRinMY pic.twitter.com/JyHV2hEsVY
— GOKPOP (@goKPOP) December 18, 2024

The momentum only grew as DPR Cream took the stage next, bringing his signature cool and captivating stage presence. He treated fans to a lineup of his hits, including “Test Drive,” “Uzuz,” and “Darling,” keeping the crowd on their feet and vibing to every beat.

The highlight of the night came when DPR Ian hit the stage, delivering a killer setlist that blended fan-favorite bangers with fresh tracks. He captivated the audience with performances of “Don’t Go Insane,” “So Beautiful,” and “Peanut Butter & Tears,” each accompanied by breathtaking visuals and dramatic lighting. One of the evening’s most poignant moments unfolded during Ian’s performance of “Ballroom Extravaganza.” With raw emotion in every note, Ian turned the arena into a sea of stars as fans waved their lights in perfect unison, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

DPR IAN is now performing his new song called “I Am Nobody” from his upcoming album 😍#DPR #dreamperfectregime #thedreamreborntour2024 #THEDREAMBORNTOURinKL #DPRinKL #DPRinMY pic.twitter.com/CnVTa0BeUH
— GOKPOP (@goKPOP) December 18, 2024

The crowd joined in the excitement, singing along, waving their light sticks, and fully immersing themselves in the enchanting atmosphere. The visuals were nothing short of spectacular—imagine larger-than-life projections, moody lighting, and an ambiance that transported everyone into DPR's artistic world. Adding to the thrill, DPR Ian gave fans an exclusive treat by teasing his upcoming album and performing a brand-new track, “I Am Nobody,” leaving the audience buzzing with anticipation for what’s to come.

This Kuala Lumpur gig wasn’t just a concert; it was part of DPR’s massive global tour spanning Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Americas. And let’s just say, it left Malaysian DREAMers wishing they could hit replay on the entire night.

Special thanks to CK Entertainment for inviting us!

Disney+ Hot Star

Experience The Five Stages of Grief with 'Light Shop'

Tuesday, December 24, 2024

Grief affects everyone differently. Experiencing its five stages – denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and finally, acceptance – offers a clear way to cope with loss. In Light Shop, these characters are pulled into a mysterious realm between life and death. Their journeys through these stages are both raw and relatable, showing how they confront their past, with some unexpected help from the dead.

Join us as we explore how each character embodies these stages, highlighting the emotional growth and character development that make their journey unforgettable.

1. Hyun Min - Denial

Denial is often easier to embrace than the truth, and for Hyun Min, it becomes his sanctuary. His journey begins on a rainy evening when he meets a girl at a bus stop, drenched yet refusing to move. Her face seems familiar, but he can’t seem to place her. Out of sympathy, he offers her shelter, unaware of the connection they once shared.

What starts as a simple gesture soon spirals into something unexpected. The girl brings him to revisit places that stir forgotten memories, but Hyun Min can’t understand their significance.

When the truth finally comes to light—that he is on the brink of death—he refuses to accept it. As he faces new revelation at every stop, his journey through denial reflects the painful first stage in the grieving process.

2. Ji Young - Anger

After exploring Hyun Min's journey through denial, we now shift our focus to Ji Young, the girl he met at the bus stop, where anger takes centre stage. Ji Young wasn’t at the bus stop by coincidence—she had been waiting for him.

Aware that Hyun Min is on the verge of death and has lost all his memories, Ji Young desperately attempts to help him remember who he was to her by revisiting familiar places. However, his inability to remember anything only intensifies her anger and frustration.

Caught in an emotional storm, Ji Young must confront her rage. Is it directed at Hyun Min or rooted in her grief and longing for hope?

3. Yu Hee - Bargaining

A mother’s love knows no bounds – Yu Hee’s story exemplifies this. One day, during her usual routine of walking her daughter home from school, an unimaginable tragedy strikes, leaving them both trapped in a limbo between life and death.

Devastated by her daughter's coma, Yu Hee’s sorrow turns into desperate bargaining. Determined to save her daughter’s life, she embarks on a journey that leads her to a mysterious Light Shop.

Yu Hee finds herself bargaining for the chance to rewrite her daughter’s destiny at the shop. On the brink of death herself, her journey through this stage of grief highlights her maternal sacrifice, love, and hope.

4. Hyun Ju - Depression

Many young students spend their days frolicking in carefree fun, but for Hyun Ju, what starts as an ordinary day—hanging out with friends and attending school—takes an eerie turn. She suddenly realises she has become invisible, unnoticed by everyone around her.

Overwhelmed by this revelation, Hyun Ju spirals into despair, questioning why she ended up in this invisible state. Struggling to comprehend her new reality, she is consumed by hopelessness, bearing the crushing weight of her untimely demise.

To her, all hope seems lost—until the arrival of her loving mother, who offers a glimmer of light in her darkness.

5. Sun Hae - Acceptance

Acceptance is about realising a truth that can no longer be denied, and that is the final stage of Sun Hae’s journey. She begins her adulthood with a simple and peaceful life in her new home until strange, unexplainable events unfold.

At first, she wonders if the house is haunted. But when an unexpected guest appears and reveals the shocking truth—Sun Hae is filled with confusion and disbelief. Will she be able to accept her fate, or will she remain trapped in an endless cycle of grief, unable to find peace?

Being trapped in the limbo between life and death is a gruelling, painful process, and that’s what makes Light Shop so special—every character explores the human condition of grief.

These characters endure the ultimate test of perseverance through grief, demonstrating their will to live. Disney+ Hotstar has more great stories for you, so let’s see where fate takes you next!