BTS J-Hope Headlines US Lollapalooza Finale... "A Series of Fears, Proud to Overcome"

by Kim Heeyun

Published 02 Aug.2022 09:27(KST)

BTS Marks Presence as the First Solo Activity Chapter 2 Starter

BTS J-Hope_performance at the American music festival Lollapalooza. Photo by BigHit Music

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heeyoon] "It's cheesy, but I really want to tell myself that I'm proud of overcoming this moment."

J-Hope, a member of the group BTS, made a strong impression on his first overseas solo stage, brilliantly marking BTS's Chapter 2. On the 1st (Korean time), he performed as a headliner at the large music festival 'Lollapalooza' held in Chicago, Illinois, USA, taking the finale stage.

J-Hope thrilled local fans by performing about 20 songs over approximately one hour. He showcased solo tracks including songs from his first solo full-length album 'Jack In The Box,' his first mixtape 'Hope World,' and 'Chicken Noodle Soup,' as well as BTS songs such as 'BTS Cypher PT.1' and 'Dynamite.'

As the first solo artist to step forward after BTS's temporary suspension of group activities, J-Hope's first overseas solo performance attracted significant attention from domestic and international media. He made history as the first Korean singer to not only perform on the main stage of a major U.S. music festival but also to close the event as the finale.

BTS J-Hope_performance at the US music festival Lollapalooza. Photo by BigHit Music

On stage that day, J-Hope confessed his feelings about his solo activities, saying, "This moment is meaningful to me. This album, which started with greed and youthful ambition, is now heading toward a grand finale. Every schedule I completed through this album has become my blood and flesh. I think I gained a firm belief again through today's performance."

He continued, "This time was a series of fears for me. Nevertheless, it was a very meaningful moment."

According to Lollapalooza organizers, about 105,000 people attended the event. Local media reported that in the 31-year history of Lollapalooza, no performer has sold as many tickets as J-Hope.