What should have been a celebratory kick-off to SEVENTEEN’s “NEW_” world tour turned briefly alarming on September 13, 2025, when a technical malfunction involving fireworks at the Incheon Asiad Main Stadium led to injuries among concertgoers.
The incident has since prompted swift action and a public apology from the group’s agency, PLEDIS Entertainment.
The Incident: A Malfunction During the Finale
During the final segment of the “SEVENTEEN WORLD TOUR [NEW_] IN INCHEON” show, a malfunction with the fireworks display caused some pyrotechnics to fall directly into the audience.
According to PLEDIS, a professional company had been hired to oversee the effects, and multiple safety checks had been performed prior to the concert.
However, the accident was reportedly due to a defective product, which led to two confirmed injuries.
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Thankfully, the injured fans were treated immediately at a temporary on-site medical station and have since returned home.
Nonetheless, the experience has left many shaken, especially those who were in close proximity to the affected area.
PLEDIS Entertainment’s Response
Shortly after the show, PLEDIS Entertainment released a detailed statement taking responsibility for the incident.
Their message emphasized both transparency and accountability:
“We would like to deeply apologize to all of the audience members who were startled or experienced discomfort because of this unexpected situation.
The two audience members…were immediately treated…we will actively support their future treatment as well.”
The agency added that they are currently contacting all attendees to determine if there were any additional injuries or damages and are conducting a thorough internal investigation.
Most notably, they have withdrawn use of the fireworks product responsible for the mishap for the second concert on September 14, and have promised an even more rigorous safety inspection moving forward.
Fan Reactions: Concern, Shock, and Cautious Support
News of the incident spread quickly online, with CARATs (SEVENTEEN’s fandom) expressing concern for those injured and frustration over what some viewed as a preventable failure.
While many acknowledged the agency’s prompt apology and commitment to addressing the issue, others voiced criticism over the continued reliance on high-risk stage effects at large-scale concerts.
“We love the fireworks, but not at the expense of fan safety,” one fan commented on social media.
“I hope this incident reminds all concert organizers to prioritize people over spectacle.”
There was also widespread relief that the injuries were not more severe, and gratitude that those hurt received immediate care.
SEVENTEEN members themselves have not yet publicly addressed the incident, though fans believe such a message may come during or after the final Incheon show.
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Concert Safety in the Spotlight
This incident is the latest in a growing number of safety-related concerns surrounding large-scale K-pop concerts, particularly those involving pyrotechnics, drones, and aerial stage elements.
As tours get more elaborate, so too do the risks, leading to louder calls for industry-wide safety reforms.
Some fans are advocating for:
- Stricter firework and special effects regulations in venues.
- Real-time emergency protocols shared with attendees.
- Concert insurance coverage for audience-related accidents.
This discussion is not unique to SEVENTEEN, but part of a broader reckoning around the balance between performance spectacle and audience welfare.
Moving Forward: Repairing Trust and Ensuring Safety
While accidents can happen even under strict protocols, fans expect that lessons will be learned and proactive steps taken to prevent recurrence.
PLEDIS Entertainment’s quick apology and commitment to supporting injured fans is commendable, but actions in the coming days—especially regarding follow-up care, refunds, or additional compensation—will speak louder than words.
For SEVENTEEN, a group known for their deep appreciation of fans and strong live performances, this is a moment to reaffirm their commitment to safety—not just dazzling stages.
