The "king of K-pop," G-Dragon, was the most anticipated star of the music festival. He appeared at the end of the program, just as the rain began to pour. The singer, dressed in a red tank top, white vest, black suit jacket, and polka dot tie, opened his set with "Power," a song about his inner strength and love for music.
The idol then sang "Home Sweet Home" and "Too Bad" – two songs from his new album. He closed his performance with "Crayon" and "Crooked," two hits released in 2013, familiar to many Vietnamese fans.
The singer sent the crowd into a frenzy when he asked, "Vietnam, do you love me?" He repeatedly said "Thank you" in Vietnamese and bowed several times to show his appreciation. G-Dragon also recited the lyrics from "Home Sweet Home": "I'd never let you go. I will be back," seemingly promising a return performance.
According to the organizers, the concert attracted nearly 40,000 fans. Many Vietnamese celebrities, including Diep Lam Anh, Dam Thu Trang, Phuong Ly, Dieu Nhi, and Rhyder, were also in the audience. At the end of G-Dragon's performance, a passionate fan tried to rush the stage but was stopped by security. Outside the stadium, many more people stood in the rain, hoping to hear G-Dragon perform.
Bui Hang, 33, expressed disappointment at the brevity of G-Dragon's performance, "I waited years to see my idol in Vietnam, so 30 minutes felt too short. I hope he'll hold a solo concert in Hanoi."
G-Dragon, 38, arrived at Noi Bai International Airport at 9 p.m. on 20/6 and was greeted by hundreds of Vietnamese fans. He was the leader of Big Bang, one of Korea's top music groups, for 13 years. In his 25-year career, he has captivated audiences with his unique music and style.
Besides G-Dragon, CL, a member of 2NE1, also delivered an explosive performance. The rapper's energetic singing and dancing kept the audience cheering.
The group Tempest, which includes Vietnamese member Hanbin (Ngo Ngoc Hung), also participated in the program. They surprised the audience with a cover of the hit song "Song Tinh" (by songwriter Tuan Khanh). Hanbin not only performed but also emceed and warmed up the crowd by dancing to a Big Bang song. The day before, he and his fellow Tempest members appeared on Hanoi's walking street, dancing with fans.
Quang Hung MasterD, the only Vietnamese singer in the music festival, performed "Thuy Trieu" and "Dung Khoc Mot Minh." He also introduced a piece of music steeped in Vietnamese culture.
Ha Thu
