For the first time since 2012, SM Entertainment brought its flagship concert series, SMTown Live, back to California, staging a massive celebration at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson. This year’s tour held added significance as it marked SM Entertainment’s 30th anniversary, a major milestone for the iconic K-pop agency known for shaping global K-pop culture.
Despite the soaring Southern California heat, thousands of dedicated fans flocked to the venue on an early summer afternoon, eager to witness 13 of SM’s most beloved and rising acts perform on one stage.
A Legendary Lineup of SM’s Best
Fans were treated to an electrifying mix of performances from a multi-generational lineup that spanned from SM’s first-wave superstars to its latest rookie sensations. The performing acts included:
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TVXQ
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Super Junior
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SHINee (Key and Minho)
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EXO (Suho, Kai, and Chanyeol)
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Red Velvet
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NCT 127
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NCT Dream
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WayV
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aespa
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Riize
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Hearts2Hearts
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SMTR25
Although NCT Wish was slated to perform, the group missed the show due to visa complications.
Girl Power: Aespa and Red Velvet Dominate the Stage
A highlight of the evening came from aespa, who captivated fans with powerful performances of “Whiplash” and their viral hit “Next Level.” Member Winter teased new music during a brief chat with the press, hinting, “We’re about to release music very, very soon, so please stay tuned for that.”
Meanwhile, Red Velvet thrilled the crowd with their sultry 2018 track “Bad Boy.” The three members who took the stage called it a special gift for their L.A. fans, especially since this marked their first performance in the city in several years.
Generations of K-pop on One Stage
TVXQ: Veterans Lead with Classic K-pop Hits
As the elder statesmen of the evening, TVXQ brought waves of nostalgia with their timeless anthem “Mirotic.” The duo shared that they wanted to showcase “synergy between senior and junior groups,” creating a bridge between K-pop generations. Their charismatic performance set the tone for a night that balanced both legacy and evolution.
Riize & Hearts2Hearts: A Glimpse into the Future
SM’s newest additions Riize and Hearts2Hearts represented the future of the company’s expansive legacy. Riize previewed tracks from their debut album Odyssey, marking a significant moment as they stepped onto the SMTown stage in L.A. for the first time.
Hearts2Hearts, fresh from a Wango Tango appearance, radiated excitement. Vocalist Stella expressed her joy about closing the night with “Hope from Kwangya,” a fan-favorite collaboration where all groups come together in unity—a symbolic moment of connection between artists and fans.
Fan Experience: Red-Carpet Access and Personal Interactions
The event was more than just a concert—it was a full-day experience. Fans who opted for the Red Carpet ticket package gained early access to the grounds and a front-row view of their idols walking the press line. Some artists even paused to snap selfies, sign autographs, and greet fans personally, adding unforgettable moments to the experience.
From early afternoon until the grand finale, SMTown Live L.A. served as a vibrant celebration of music, community, and three decades of pop culture influence from one of South Korea’s most influential entertainment agencies.
What’s Next for SMTown Live?
The SMTown Live tour is far from over. After Los Angeles, the next global stop is London on June 28, followed by a show in Japan this August. These concerts are part of SM’s broader mission to continue globalizing K-pop, a goal it’s championed since the early 2000s.
