Highlight once again proved their legendary status in K-pop with a powerful and emotional performance series at the ‘RIDE OR DIE’ concert held from July 11 to 13 at KSPO DOME in Seoul.
For three unforgettable nights, the group reunited with fans to celebrate their musical journey — both as Highlight and as the group formerly known as BEAST — showcasing their evolution and deep connection with fans through a carefully curated setlist.
Embracing the BEAST Era After Regaining Rights
The concert was particularly significant as it marked the group’s first major performance of BEAST-era hits since reclaiming the trademark rights from former agency Cube Entertainment in 2023.
This allowed Highlight to openly honor their musical roots, something that had previously been restricted.
The impact of this was felt immediately when beloved BEAST songs were added to the setlist, stirring powerful emotions among long-time fans.
A Setlist Blending New and Classic Hits
Opening the show with their recent release “Chains,” Highlight quickly transitioned into high-energy fan favorites like “Switch On,” “Shadow,” “Sad Movie (Kor),” “We Up,” “Dance With U,” “CELEBRATE,” and “Endless Ending.”
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The mood shifted to a more sentimental tone as they performed ballads like “Rainy Days,” “12:30,” and “DAYDREAM,” showcasing their vocal depth.
But the true highlights of the evening were the long-awaited full versions of “Fiction” and “Shock”, now performed with their original rap sections — a part of the songs that had not been featured since the departure of Yong Jun Hyung.
The Return of Iconic Raps
Rather than removing or modifying the rap parts, Yoon Doo Joon and Lee Gi Kwang boldly stepped in to fill the sections, breathing new life into the classic hits.
“We finally added back the rap parts,” said Yoon. “It took a lot of discussion and thought, but now that we’ve done it, it feels incredibly cathartic.”
Behind-the-Scenes: A Spontaneous Decision
According to Son Dong Woon, the decision was made during a casual night in Japan.
“We were just hanging out in a hotel room during a fan event when our manager casually suggested it,” he explained.
“At first we hesitated, but by the time the sun came up, the decision was made.” Yang Yo Seob, who had gone to bed early, laughed and added, “I woke up to find everything had already been decided.”
Emotional Fan Reactions and Rare Gems
When “Fiction” and “Shock” were performed, the venue erupted in powerful fan chants, a testament to how much these songs still resonate.
“Did you get it out of your system?”
Doo Joon playfully asked, while Yo Seob shared,
“It was so good to hear those cheers again. I felt truly happy.”
The group also performed rarely heard tracks like “Dream Girl” and delivered the first-ever live performance of “Blow Me Away.”
“Seeing how much you love these older songs makes me want to bring back even more,” Dong Woon said. “I’ll be talking with our manager to push for more like this.”
Vocal Excellence and Stage Chemistry
Every song — from dance anthems to heartfelt ballads — was performed using handheld microphones, highlighting the group’s live vocal strength.
It was a refreshing contrast in an industry increasingly reliant on backing tracks. Between songs, the members kept the energy high with witty banter, heartfelt reflections, and emotional gratitude.
A Show Made with Fans in Mind
As the concert drew to a close, Yang Yo Seob emphasized the care that went into planning the event.
“The four of us debated a single cue sheet for nearly a month,” he revealed.
“Every decision was made with the fans in mind.”
The meticulous attention to detail and sincerity throughout the show reminded fans why Highlight remains such a beloved presence in the K-pop scene.
The ‘RIDE OR DIE’ Tour Expands Across Asia
Following the massive success of their Seoul shows, Highlight is now preparing to take ‘RIDE OR DIE’ on the road, with scheduled performances in:
- Taipei (August 2–3)
- Macau (August 9)
- Manila (August 23)
- Tokyo (August 30–31)
- Bangkok (September 20)
- Kuala Lumpur (September 27)
These shows are expected to continue the emotionally charged energy of the Seoul concerts, bringing their legacy to fans across the continent.
Legacy, Loyalty, and a Bright Future
In an ever-changing industry, Highlight’s enduring success is not just a product of their music, but also of their loyalty to one another, their dedication to fans, and their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.
Also Read: HIGHLIGHT Hits the Road: 2025 ‘RIDE OR DIE’ Asia Tour Unveiled Amid Comeback Success
By reclaiming their past and embracing it with pride, they’ve shown that their journey is far from over — and if ‘RIDE OR DIE’ is any indication, they’re just getting started.
