LE SSERAFIM kicked off their first-ever solo tour with a powerful performance that began with a dramatic stage drop and concluded with the unveiling of a new song. The members promised fans a safe and unforgettable journey and asked for their patience and support.
On August 13, at the Jamsil Indoor Gymnasium in Jamsil-dong, Seoul, LE SSERAFIM's inaugural solo tour titled "2023 LE SSERAFIM TOUR 'FLAME RISES' IN SEOUL" was held. Over the two-day event, more than 15,000 fans visited the concert hall.
This concert marked LE SSERAFIM's first solo performance since their debut. The concert kicked off dramatically with members Kim Chaewon, Sakura, Heo Yunjin, Kazuha, and Hong Eunchae appearing center stage, performing an intense opening act that simulated a drop off the stage.
Throughout their career, LE SSERAFIM showcased music reflecting their experiences and thoughts, from their debut album 'FEARLESS' to their second mini-album 'ANTIFRAGILE' and their first regular album 'UNFORGIVEN'. Their 'FLAME RISES' tour encapsulates the messages they've shared with their fans, known as FEARNOT, and the general public.
The concert, themed around 'flames', was highlighted by a setlist and structure that encapsulated LE SSERAFIM's identity and aspirations. It comprised four main sections, portraying LE SSERAFIM's fearless journey forward: 'EMBERS', 'IGNITE', 'FLAME', and 'RISES'.
LE SSERAFIM Kim Chae-won
The first song they performed was 'FEARLESS'. The name "LE SSERAFIM" is an anagram of "IM FEARLESS". It represents their determination to move forward fearlessly, making it the perfect opener for their first solo tour. They also debuted the full performance of 'The Great Mermaid' with 20 backup dancers. The stage set and media art, reminiscent of the ocean, elevated the audience's immersion.
The members took a moment to greet fans globally, addressing them in Korean, English, and Japanese. Hong Eunchae expressed, "The cheers today seem louder than yesterday." She also added, "Expect a lot as we've put together a concert infused with LE SSERAFIM's color." Kazuha echoed the sentiment, while Heo Yunjin hinted at the group's aim for the tour, drawing cheers from the audience. Sakura and Kim Chaewon engaged the fans with witty remarks about the intense opening, drawing laughter and excitement.
LE SSERAFIM Sakura
The second section, 'IGNITE', showcased a livelier and more energetic side of the members compared to the first section. The song 'No Celestial' began with Heo Yunjin's guitar performance and segued into a standing microphone performance by the members.
Throughout the concert, the members interacted extensively with fans, expressing gratitude and drawing support. They even co-created a new cheering method, 'good good', during their performances.
In a touching moment, Kim Chaewon remarked on seeing FEARNOT everywhere and expressed gratitude. Sakura shared that because of FEARNOT, the members could love themselves more, while Heo Yunjin mused about the bond formed over shared interests. Hong Eunchae wished for their bond with FEARNOT to be the sweetest in the world.
LE SSERAFIM Kazuha
As the concert progressed, the members introduced the next segment, hinting at a surprise stage prepared for FEARNOT. The following performance featured their new song, 'We got so much', emphasizing the harmonious blend of warm lyrics and the members' synchronized harmony.
The third section opened with the powerful performance of 'ANTIFRAGILE'. The concert continued with a series of songs from their first regular album 'UNFORGIVEN'. The energy of the members remained unwavering, delivering one captivating act after another.
The third section, 'FLAME', embodied the passion and vigor of LE SSERAFIM. The stage transformed with fiery visuals, complementing the electrifying atmosphere. 'Fire in My Soul', one of their hit tracks, had the audience singing along, their voices filling the entire gymnasium.
In a touching interlude, a video montage played, showcasing behind-the-scenes footage from their journey, from training days to their debut, and memorable moments shared with FEARNOT. It offered a raw glimpse into the challenges they faced, the milestones they celebrated, and the love they received.
As the montage concluded, Kazuha took center stage with a soulful solo, serenading the audience with her powerful vocals. Her performance was met with a standing ovation, and her eyes welled up with tears as she expressed, "Every time I stand on this stage, I feel the weight of the love and support from all of you. It fuels me to give my best."
LE SSERAFIM Heo Yunjin
The final section, 'RISES', showcased LE SSERAFIM's growth and evolution. Beginning with an acoustic rendition of 'Rise Above', the members displayed their vocal prowess and harmonization skills. The ambiance was intimate, making it feel like a close-knit gathering rather than a large-scale concert.
As the concert neared its conclusion, LE SSERAFIM addressed the audience one last time. Heo Yunjin spoke up, "We began as a small ember, but with your love and support, we've become a roaring flame. This tour, 'FLAME RISES', represents that journey. Thank you for being our wind, our oxygen."
The encore consisted of two songs, including their new release 'We got so much'. The entire gymnasium vibrated with energy as fans sang along, waved their light sticks, and danced.
Finally, with a heartfelt bow and waves, LE SSERAFIM left the stage, marking the end of a memorable night. Fans exited the venue with smiles, eagerly discussing the concert's highlights and looking forward to the group's future endeavors.
LE SSERAFIM Hong Eun-chae
Reports state that LE SSERAFIM will be taking their 'FLAME RISES' tour to other major cities in Asia, followed by stops in North America and Europe, solidifying their status as global K-pop ambassadors.
Following 'The Hydra' performance in which Le Serafim was accompanied by 20 dancers, the stage was further heated up with performances of 'Eve, Psyche, and the Wife of Bluebeard' and 'UNFORGIVEN (feat. Nile Rodgers)'.
As Le Serafim exited the stage, shouts of "Encore!" erupted from the audience. Shortly after, Le Serafim reappeared and began the first song of the fourth section, '피어나 (Between you, me, and the lamppost)' in a calm atmosphere. Fans sang along, raising banners prepared in advance that read, 'Promise you, / Tomorrow, with us together / will be a better day.' After the song, Hong Eun Chae expressed her gratitude, saying she was touched by the fans' banners with different messages each day. Sakura suggested, "Let's capture this happy moment in a photo." Le Serafim took a photo with the fans.
Kim Chae Won lamented, "The first concert in Seoul is nearing its end. Time flies so fast." Hong Eun Chae shared her appreciation for the 'Music Bank' crew who attended and thanked the mentors who supported her journey. She expressed her deep gratitude to the fans, FEARNOT, for their continuous support. She wished for everyone to feel happiness through her and urged fans to wait patiently for their tour.
Sakura expressed her gratitude and happiness, jesting that fans should take care of their throats after shouting support. She jokingly thanked a fan who mentioned watching them daily on YouTube and emphasized her desire to be a source of small joys for each fan.
Kazuha shared her happiness and reflected on their journey since debut, emphasizing the importance of their fans, FEARNOT. Kim Chae Won shared her feelings about preparing for their first concert and how the cheering from fans eased all her stresses and worries.
Heo Yun Jin reminisced about writing '피어나' and expressed her gratitude to FEARNOT, the members, and the company's staff for giving her the courage to move forward. Kim Chae Won encouraged everyone to rise from their seats for their final greeting.
Soon, 'No-Return (Into the unknown)' began playing. Fans stood up and sang along. Le Serafim captivated the audience with an energetic and lively performance. The last stage of their solo tour was 'Fire in the belly', and Le Serafim concluded with a spectacular finale.
LE SSERAFIM will continue their tour to Nagoya (August 23-24), Tokyo (August 30-31), Osaka (September 6-7), Hong Kong (September 30-October 1), Jakarta (October 3), and Bangkok (October 7-8).
