aespa, IVE, NCT WISH, and other top K-pop acts will perform at the 2025 Show! Music Core in Japan, bringing their music to fans at Belluna Dome. This two-day event, set for July 5 and 6, promises exciting performances from both established and rising stars.
Event Details and Lineup
The Show! Music Core in Japan will take place at Belluna Dome in Saitama on July 5 and 6, 2025. This special broadcast, hosted by MBC, features a star-studded lineup of K-pop artists. Confirmed performers include aespa, Hearts2Hearts, ILLIT, INI, IVE, izna, KiiiKiii, NCT WISH, NEXZ, NiziU, n.SSign, SHINee’s Taemin, THE BOYZ, and TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT). More artists may be announced closer to the event.
The event follows the success of the 2024 Show! Music Core in Japan, which featured acts like ENHYPEN, ATEEZ, and Stray Kids. This year’s lineup blends fourth and fifth-generation K-pop groups, showcasing the industry’s diversity.
Performers Info
aespa, known for hits like Black Mamba and Supernova, is a leading fourth-generation girl group under SM Entertainment. Their futuristic concepts and strong vocals make them a highlight of the event. Fans are eager to see their dynamic stage presence in Japan.
IVE, from Starship Entertainment, has dominated charts with songs like LOVE DIVE and ATTITUDE. Their recent win on Music Core for ATTITUDE shows their popularity, and their Japan performance is expected to draw huge crowds.
NCT WISH, a Japan-based subunit of NCT under SM Entertainment, debuted in 2024. Their youthful energy and songs like WISH resonate with fans, making their appearance a key moment for Japanese audiences.
Hearts2Hearts, SM Entertainment’s newest girl group, debuted on February 24, 2025, with their single The Chase. The eight-member group, including Jiwoo, Carmen, and Yuha, has gained attention for their dreamy aesthetic and international lineup, with members like Carmen from Indonesia. Their Japan stage marks their first overseas performance.
KiiiKiii, a five-member girl group from Starship Entertainment, officially debuted on March 24, 2025, with their EP UNCUT GEM. Their pre-debut track I DO ME charted at No. 70 on Melon’s Top 100, outpacing Hearts2Hearts initially. Their playful, Gen-Z vibe and unique “country girl” concept will add a fresh flavor to the event.
ILLIT, under HYBE’s Belift Lab, rose to fame with their viral hit Magnetic. Their nostalgic, youthful style makes them a fan favorite, and their Japan performance will likely showcase their catchy choreography.
izna, formed through Mnet’s I-LAND 2, debuted in 2024 with members like Jungeun and Saebi. Despite facing tough competition from Hearts2Hearts and KiiiKiii for Rookie of the Year (ROTY) awards, their high-energy performances are expected to shine.
NiziU, NEXZ, and INI bring J-pop and K-pop fusion to the stage, appealing to both Japanese and global fans. SHINee’s Taemin, a veteran soloist, will add a powerful performance, while THE BOYZ and TXT are set to deliver their signature charisma.
Venue and Ticket Information
Belluna Dome, a major venue in Saitama, will host the event. Tickets are available through official pre-sale channels, with prices set at ¥13,000 (tax included) for reserved seats. The 2024 event saw high demand, with opening day tickets selling out, so fans are advised to secure tickets early.
The event is organized by TV Asahi, TV Asahi Music, and Hakuhodo DY Media Partners, with sponsors like Mynavi and Suntory. For ticket details, fans can visit the official site .
Fan Reactions
Fans on social media are thrilled about the lineup. Many praised the mix of established groups like aespa and IVE with rookies like Hearts2Hearts and KiiiKiii. One fan wrote, “aespa and IVE in one show? This is going to be epic!” Another commented, “Hearts2Hearts and KiiiKiii performing in Japan so soon after debut? They’re moving fast!”
Some fans expressed excitement for NCT WISH, noting, “Seeing NCT WISH in Japan feels so special since it’s their home base!” Others hoped for collaborations, saying, “Imagine aespa and Hearts2Hearts doing a special stage together!”
Significance of the Event
The Show! Music Core in Japan is a major platform for K-pop artists to connect with Japanese fans, one of the largest K-pop markets. The 2025 event highlights the rise of fifth-generation groups like Hearts2Hearts, KiiiKiii, and izna, alongside fourth-generation leaders. It also showcases SM Entertainment and Starship Entertainment’s efforts to maintain their influence through new acts.
The event builds on the success of Hearts2Hearts and KiiiKiii’s debuts, which sparked a friendly rivalry. Hearts2Hearts’ leader Jiwoo said at their debut showcase, “Rather than feeling pressure, I think we can become a positive influence as we work together.” KiiiKiii’s member Sui echoed this, stating, “It’s an honor to debut during the same era. We hope we can inspire each other.”
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As of April 25, 2025, the first artist lineup for Show! Music Core in Japan was announced, with more performers possibly added later. Hearts2Hearts recently performed at The Performance in Yokohama on March 30, marking their Japan debut. KiiiKiii continues to gain traction with UNCUT GEM, while IVE and aespa remain chart-toppers. Fans are eagerly awaiting the event, with ticket sales expected to be competitive.
CREDITS: The Korea Times
