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THE BOYZ push past bomb threat, member scandals to launch new world tour
K-pop groupThe Boyz performs at KSPO Dome in Songpa District, Seoul, during its "THE BLAZE" world tour, Sunday. Courtesy of One Hundred
By Pyo Kyung-min
K-pop group The Boyz launched its fourth world tour over the weekend with a three-night run in Seoul, overcoming a fake bomb threat that delayed the final performance and a string of controversies surrounding members' private lives.
The 10-member group opened their world tour, titled "THE BLAZE," from last Friday to Sunday at KSPO Dome in Songpa District of southeastern Seoul. The final show on Sunday was initially set to begin at 4 p.m., but at around 1:50 p.m., police received a report claiming explosives had been planted inside the arena.
The report prompted an evacuation of the audience and a full security sweep. Authorities searched the venue for about two hours before confirming the threat was false.
According to a press release from the group's agency, One Hundred, police, fire officials and venue staff "convened a joint safety review after the search and determined the concert could proceed." Audience entry resumed at 4:45 p.m. and the performance started at 6 p.m.
Once onstage, The Boyz performed a mix of tracks including "Stylish," the title track of the band's latest album released in July, along with elaborate group choreography, unit stages and special stage effects.
"We had many worries preparing for this concert, but as soon as we are standing in front of our fans, we feel strength and energy," the members said after the show. "Thank you for enjoying it just as we imagined."
The crowd cheers for K-pop group The Boyz as the group performs at KSPO Dome of Songpa District, Seoul, during its "THE BLAZE" concert, Sunday. Courtesy of One Hundred
The Boyz had been mired in controversy even before the tour began.
In April, member Sunwoo came under fire after a video circulated online showing him dropping his wireless earphones and shouting "My AirPods!" in what many interpreted as an irritated tone toward a security guard who retrieved them. He accepted the earphones without offering thanks, fueling criticism over his perceived rudeness.
Soon after, member Juyeon was swept up in dating rumors with actress Shin Si-a, sparking debate among some fans. The tensions escalated further in June when then-member Ju Haknyeon faced allegations that he had privately met former Japanese adult film actress Asuka Kirara and engaged in prostitution. The agency quickly announced his departure from the group and later confirmed his contract termination.
Despite the turbulence, The Boyz drew thousands to the KSPO Dome across the three nights. The Seoul run marked the opening leg of "THE BLAZE" tour, which will continue Aug. 23 at Yokohama Pia Arena in Japan, with additional stops in the U.S. and Asia.