(By Yoonbee Lee, MHN) The cost of concert tickets in South Korea has become a hot topic of debate, particularly as a string of high-profile performances prepare to take the stage.

Global music icon YE (formerly Kanye West) is set to hold a long-awaited concert in Seoul on May 31. This marks his first solo show in Korea in nine years, following his 2016 world tour. The upcoming performance is drawing significant attention, especially after YE recently teased an unfinished version of his new track “BULLY V1.” Fans are now anticipating the live debut of the final version, “BULLY,” during the Seoul concert.

However, controversy has erupted over ticket pricing, particularly the high cost of VIP packages, as reservations open.

A Breakdown of Ticket Tiers

According to concert information released by Coupang Play, ticket options include standing zones and assigned seating in tiers P, R, S, A, and B. P seats are located directly in front of the stage on the second and third floors; R seats are on the second-floor sides; S seats occupy the third-floor sides and front of the fourth floor. A and B seats are situated at the center and sides at the back of the fourth floor.

Standing tickets near the stage are priced at 176,000 KRW (approx. $130), while side standing tickets are 165,000 KRW (approx. $120). Assigned seating ranges from 250,000 KRW (approx. $185) for premium seats to 88,000 KRW (approx. $65) for the most affordable options. Wheelchair-accessible seats are priced at 220,000 KRW (approx. $160).

The most controversial prices, however, are those of the VIP packages. The “PREMIUM SEAT” package costs 500,000 KRW (approx. $370) and includes a P-tier ticket, a VIP-exclusive laminated lanyard, an official poster, and access to a VIP merchandise booth.

The “EARLY ENTRY STAND” package, priced at 440,000 KRW (approx. $325), includes a standing ticket with early entry privileges. The highest-tier option, the “VIP EXPERIENCE,” is priced at 840,000 KRW (approx. $620) and includes a P-tier seat plus an exclusive on-stage photo opportunity after the show.

Public Reactions: Mixed Opinions on Value

Some fans argue the VIP packages are overpriced, particularly considering that no meet-and-greet or direct artist interaction is included. Coupang Play confirmed that “none of the VIP packages involve artist participation,” leading some netizens to comment, “Why pay an extra 400,000 won to take photos of an empty stage?” Others noted that, including travel and accommodation, attending the concert could cost over 1 million KRW (approx. $740).

Still, others felt the general ticket pricing was relatively reasonable, especially compared to other major acts. “The regular seats are actually affordable,” wrote one commenter. “At this price, it’s worth it—who knows when he’ll come again?”

BLACKPINK and G-Dragon: High Prices, High Expectations

YE’s concert is not the only one under scrutiny. BLACKPINK is scheduled to perform a full-group concert, BLACKPINK 2025 World Tour in Goyang, on July 5–6 at Goyang Sports Complex. Ticket tiers include Blink, Black, Pink, R, S, A, and B, with the most expensive “Blink” seats priced at 275,000 KRW (approx. $200)—reportedly the highest for any K-pop concert to date. The lowest-tier B seats are 132,000 KRW (approx. $100), while R-tier and above exceed 200,000 KRW (approx. $150).

For comparison, G-Dragon’s March concert at the same venue had a top VIP ticket price of 220,000 KRW (approx. $160) and a lowest-tier A seat at 154,000 KRW (approx. $115). BLACKPINK’s encore concert at Gocheok Sky Dome in September 2023 featured VIP seats at 220,000 KRW and A seats starting from 121,000 KRW.

While seat maps for BLACKPINK’s upcoming shows have not been released, fans must pay an additional 25,000 KRW to join the official fan club to access pre-sale tickets.

Online reactions have been divided, with some questioning the rising prices, while others defended the costs. “Why is it so expensive?” asked one commenter. Another countered, “The quality will be worth the price.”

Performance Quality: A Growing Concern

Critics argue that rising ticket prices aren’t always matched by performance quality or fan service. G-Dragon’s March solo concert—his first in eight years—was marred by weather-related delays and a lack of timely communication. The artist also performed with a reportedly strained voice, raising concerns among fans. After the show, online posts circulated showing piles of trash left around the venue.

BLACKPINK’s Jennie also drew criticism during her Ruby Experience concert on March 15 at Inspire Arena in Incheon. Fans were disappointed by a late start, a minimalist stage setup, limited interaction, and a short setlist.

Amid a broader trend of increasing ticket prices across Korea’s concert scene, audiences are questioning whether flashy production and big-name performers truly justify the cost. As expectations rise, so too does the pressure on artists and organizers to deliver an experience worthy of the premium price tags.