Concerts proceed as scheduled despite martial law turmoil

By Pyo Kyung-min

Concerts across Korea are going on as planned after a brief period of uncertainty following President Yoon Suk Yeol's surprise declaration and subsequent lifting of martial law. Both international and domestic artists have confirmed that their shows will proceed without disruption.

British Albanian pop star Dua Lipa's upcoming two days of concerts at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul's Guro District will proceed as scheduled, on both Wednesday and Thursday. While no changes have been announced, Live Nation Korea, the event's organizer, stated it is "carefully monitoring the situation to ensure clear communication," leaving room for potential adjustments if necessary.

Having last performed in Korea in May 2018, the show marks Lipa's first solo concert in the country in more than six years.

Japanese pop duo YOASOBI also confirmed its concerts will take place as scheduled on Dec. 7 and 8 at Inspire Arena on Incheon's Yeongjong Island. Promoter LIVET reassured fans through an official statement, saying, "This week's live events will proceed as scheduled. Notices regarding merchandise will also be released today."

Domestic artists have also followed suit, with many reiterating their commitment to honoring performance schedules.

Veteran singer Lee Seung-hwan announced Wednesday on social media that his small-theater concert series, "Like A Black And White Movie," will go ahead as planned.

The concert series, held at Gurumare Theater in Seoul's Mapo District, began Tuesday. Although Wednesday's performance was initially canceled following the martial law declaration, it was reinstated after the emergency order was lifted.

"With martial law lifted, the show will go on as scheduled. Apologies for the confusion caused," Lee wrote. "On this significant day, I look forward to connecting through deeper stories and music."

Singer-songwriter Jang Beom-june also confirmed his weekday performances at Hyundai Card UNDERSTAGE in Seoul's Yongsan District will continue as planned through Dec. 19.

Addressing fans on his YouTube channel, he wrote, "Let's all do our best to protect our precious daily lives. Given the current state of the nation, I won't post updates for the next couple of days. See you at the concert!"

The turmoil began late Tuesday night when President Yoon declared martial law, citing the need to defend the country from what he called threats posed by "pro-North Korean communist forces." In the surprise address, Yoon vowed to protect South Korea's democracy and eliminate groups he described as "anti-state factions."

Lawmakers acted swiftly, with the National Assembly voting unanimously to approve a resolution to lift martial law early Wednesday morning. The Cabinet officially endorsed the decision at 4:30 a.m. the same day, bringing the six-hour emergency to an end.