The k-pop concert etiquette debate has reached a fever pitch after the five-member South Korean boy band Cortis officially asked their fans to stop filming during their performances. The group, known for their high-energy dance routines and vocal precision, made the request as they kicked off their latest global tour in the South Korean city of Incheon.
Why K-pop concert etiquette is changing
During their opening show, the members of Cortis appeared on stage in casual, streetwear-inspired outfits, opting for a grounded, intimate connection with the audience rather than a highly polished spectacle. Between tracks, the band members paused to address the sea of smartphones held up by the crowd. They argued that by viewing the performance through a screen, fans are missing out on the genuine, live experience they traveled to see.
This isn't just about band preference; it's a growing trend among global performers who feel that the constant recording of shows disrupts the atmosphere. For fans in Pakistan, where concert culture is increasingly adopting international standards, this shift raises a question: is it time to prioritize the moment over the social media post?
The impact on fan experience
For many concert-goers, filming is a way to preserve memories or share the excitement with friends who couldn't attend. However, the band emphasized that their choreography and live vocals are designed to be experienced in real-time. When thousands of screens are raised, it blocks the view of those behind and creates a disconnect between the artist and the audience.
If you are planning to attend a major live event in the future, consider the following:
- Keep your phone in your pocket for at least the first three songs.
- Respect the 'no-filming' zones if they are marked at the venue.
- Focus on the audio and the stage energy rather than your camera settings.
What to watch next in live music
As major artists continue to tour globally, expect more venues to implement strict no-phone policies. Some international tours have already begun using secure pouches that lock phones away during the performance. While this hasn't become a standard practice in Pakistan's concert scene yet, organizers are increasingly encouraging fans to be 'present' during sets.
Keep an eye on official event pages for any specific rules regarding recording equipment. If you want to get the most out of your ticket price, try putting the device down for just one set—you might find that the live experience is far more memorable than a shaky, low-quality video on your phone.