G Dragon Übermensch tour in Hanoi Vietnam - November 8th and 9th 2025 at 8wonder Ocean City

GD’s Ubermensch world tour is definitely my most hard fought concert ticket ever. The tickets were being snapped up within minutes (partially due to scalpers using bots to secure tickets in less security proof platforms in countries, such as Malaysia, Macau and HK) ! Having attended several Big Bang and GD’s solo concerts multiple times over the last decade or so, I never had to endure so much challenges to secure the “elusive” tickets.  For the past 5-6 months since GD embarked on his global tour, I had to constantly battled it out for his tickets at various countries.  I almost bagged the ticket during his Malaysia stop’s Hong Leung credit card presale but got kicked out before payment could be processed.  For the record, I would rate the local organizer, Starplanet, as the worst ticketing experience thus far. The purchase process is a fiasco and  major embarrassment.  Disgruntled fans didn’t minced their words when voicing their displeasure directly to GD and his management company, Galaxy. Many even wrote to our ministers, appealing for them to take stern actions against this unprofessional organizer.   I truly hope they are barred as the local organizer for the upcoming 20^th Anniversary comeback concert in 2026.  Anyway, as  I was about to throw in the towel, I finally hit jackpot during the final leg of his tour - Hanoi (Vietnam).

 I simply love travelling to Vietnam and having it in Hanoi, is certainly the icing on the cake for me. This is my first experience going to a K-pop concert in Vietnam and I am super impressed !!! I’m so glad to see that the audience is mainly Vietnamese, which indirectly implies that everyone had a fair chance of obtaining the tickets (unlike Malaysia, where the crowd consists of only 20% Malaysians and the rest are Mainland Chinese !!!) . The ticket redemption flow is pretty hi-tech, in addition to orderly queue system at the merchandise booths.  When collecting the wrist band before the concert, each ticket holder must have their photo taken on the spot.  Entry to the venue is strictly via facial recognition. Although this might not entirely quashed tickets scalping, it does made it harder for scalpers to sell the tickets.  Hats off to the Vietnamese organize (8Wonder).  I was also skeptical about the vast venue but my worries were quickly put to rest.  I had a decent view of the stage and another thing worth mentioning is the organizer (8Wonder) actually build the tiered seats and stage from scratch.  The venue is capable of hosting 60,000 fans and GD’s two night sold out performance accommodated more than 100K attendees !! The local fans are extremely enthusiastic and it greatly elevated the concert vibes – everyone was so pumped during the whole 2.5 hours duration.  The local fan club also had a fan project at Vincom mall, whereby fans had the opportunity take photos at several makeshift GD photo booths. So much fun ! It looks like a huge party seeing scores of fans dressed-up like GD or holding the much-coveted Daisy Bong.

 As for GD, his comeback is astonishing.  If I had to compare with his last concert titled ‘Act III: M.O.T.T.E,’ (before he enlisted in the mandatory army service), it really pales in comparison with “Übermensch”. After a 7 year break, he came back stronger and really cemented his status as the king of pop.  I am not exaggerating when I say everyone wants a piece of him.  His fan base seems to have gotten younger and younger, proving that his charisma appeals to all generation. Prior to the concert, GD’s heart-warming message dedicated to the Vietnames  appeared on the LED screen.  GD wished everyone safety and good health for those affected by the tropical storm and flood. The show began with the dynamic opening track “Power”, with GD donning a crown and in a striking red jacket adorned with 99 red roses.  When GD belted the crowd favourite, “Home Sweet Home”, I was both excited and “nervous” coz the seats were shaking soooooo violently coz every fans were singing and rocking in unison !  Vietnamese fans are one of the best I have seen – so stoked and you couldn’t help but be absorbed by their energy.  GD delivered a truly immaculate performance.  Frankly, GD may not have powerful vocal like Taeyang but he is definitely a phenomenal performer, fashion icon and a gifted composer.  Fans were treated to a visual feast that incorporated A.I. and real time visuals, drones and fireworks during the finale.  After “Home Sweet Home”, he continues to command the stage with a succession of his past hit songs such as “Crooked”, “Crayon” and “Heartbreaker” …eliciting deafening roars and karaoke sing along from the appreciate crowd. G-Drgaon also attempted beatboxing during “Too Bad” and the iconic zombie-like dance movement with Kwon Twins when performing “Too Bad”. GD also used a custom daisy decorated carriage to move around the concert venue to interact with the audience and some lucky audience even caught the freebies distributed during this segment. Seated on a silver GD Ubermensch throne, GD enthralled the audience with his sentimental persona by singing “Bonamana” and “Butterfly”.  The crowd went wild again when GD talked about the highly anticipated Big Bang reunion concert, which I am pretty sure Hanoi will be on the list coz I could really feel GD’s fervent love for Vietnam.  In the past, I used to have the impression that GD is better in upbeat tracks but lately, I changed my mind. His recent balad, the raw and brooding “Drama” really stirs my emotions. He ended the night with “Untitled, 2014”, followed by a remarkable display of fireworks, played to the tune of “Home Sweet Home” as credits roll. Yes, the King is back !!! Can’t wait for Big Bang’s 20^th Anniversary !

GD concert rundown:-

Power

Home Sweet Home

Super Star

MichiGO

One of A kind

Crayon

Bonamana

Butterfly

I love it

Who You?

Today

Crooked

Heartbreaker

Bullshit X Not Like Us

Take Me

Too Bad

Drama

Encore

I belong2u

Untitled 2014

Blackpink Deadline concert in Bangkok (24-26 Oct 2025) at Rajamangala National Stadium

My excitement upon arriving in Bangkok quickly turned into dread when I found out that the Queen mother (reigning Thailand King’s mother) had passed. This plunges the entire country into immediate mourning mode, with very strict protocols. I noticed even mannequins in malls had to be in white and black outfits ! All decorations (Halloween) had to be taken down as well.  I was beyond relieved when the organizer announced that the show will go on, albeit some changes. Audience were urged to wear black and white attire as a mark of respect , no fireworks display, no excessive lightings and of course, the gals had to exercise some restrain on their flashy and revealing outfits. Blackpink’s MVs were also played in monochrome mode.  Attendees also observed a one-minute moment of silence for the Queen before the concert commenced.  Despite this, I still see some foreigners dressed inappropriately (many were even more sexy than Lisa and Jennie !!).  One disturbing observation and the reason it’s getting so freaking hard to get tickets for popular k-pop acts are the presence of influencers and wannabe KOLs. They either want to do live-stream (although forbidden) and are more interested in posing photos of themselves in loud/alluring clothes…or filming themselves singing at the concert. And you see them constantly checking their phones to monitor how many “likes” attained after posting and editing their photos. Speaking from the perspective of an avid concert goer and someone who refuses to engage ticketing service or buy from scalpers, the current unhealthy trend is frustrating and infuriating ! Having said that, I am thankful that the Thai organizer (Thai Ticket Major) has taken proactive measures to counter this nagging issue….unlike the lazy local Malaysian organizer.  I was surprised but glad that I am being asked random questions about Blackpink and the concert before I could move on to purchase the tickets.  This move greatly mitigate the damage brought upon by bots (which scalpers and ticketing service utilized to grab tickets in mass). Also, purchasers are required to show their ID/passport during physical ticket collection (another good effort to hinder scalpers’ illicit activities).

 It's my first rodeo at Rajamangala stadium, having attended most of my previous concerts at Thailand’s Impact Arena. No doubt the stadium is enormous but still, the tiered seats offers a decent view of the stage. In fact, it is so much better than Malaysia’s Bukit Jalil outdoor stadium, I must say.  Like many outdoor concert this time of the year, I came equipped with raincoat and thank God, it didn’t rain. The problem with this venue it’s in the suburbs and hotels within walking distance are scarce and of so-so quality ( I am probably more picky of accommodation as I grow older).   As in most cases (except HK), I tend to select accommodation near the concert hall as traffic can be a huge nightmare after the show.  From my observation, most fans opt for motorcycles as their means of transport to get home/hotel.  Cars are more challenging due to the bottleneck after the concert.  The tour also serves as a tremendous boost to Thailand’s tourism as Blackpink’s concerts drew 600K international tourists that particular week. Bangkok’s tourism has taken a hit lately due to the many kidnapping cases involving China’s mafia operating in Cambodia’s scam compounds.

 “Kill This Love” is the opening number for the Deadline tour.  I noticed that many fans were not too enthusiastic (probably due to the sudden passing of the King’s mother ? I’m not sure).  This was followed by other familiar hits like “Ddu Ddu Ddu”, “Playing With Fire”, “Pink Venom”, “How You Like That” and “Shut Down” accompanied by their signature dance moves.  Their chemistry is still intact and it’s evident that their star power is still shining brightly.  Playing to home ground, naturally, Lisa received the most applause. Lisa wore a glittering silver body hugging costume with Thailand flag on her back and has significantly toned down some controversial dance moves.   Jennie, who has often been critized for her perceived lazy dance moves, were very energetic, especially during her solo performance of runaway hit, “Like Jennie”.  Jisoo, my favourite member, lit up the stage with “Hugs and Kisses” and “Earthquake”.  What stood out is the way the girls sparkles during their individual showcase.  The years apart has mould them into strong and successful solo singers. They also attempted to speak Thai while introducing themselves.  As for Rosie who also serves as the main spokesperson during the concert, she gave a moving rendition of “3 AM” and “Toxic Till the End”.  Of course, I don’t think the crowd would let her leave the stage without singing “APT”.  For the various stops, there are clips of Rosie enjoying local delicacies.  In Thailand, Rosie was filmed eating Phat Thai, drinking Cha Tra Mue  tea and mango sticky rice ! Audience reacted with loud cheers and it was kinda hilarious watching members of the audience being featured in dance challenges during Blackpink’s clothes change break. During the encore session, Blackpink delights the crowd with their electro funk new song, “Jump”.  Despite the emergence of newer girl groups such as Baby Monster and Aespa, Blackpink has proven that they are still the reigning and most popular K-pop idol female group. 

Blackpink song rundown – Deadline concert (3^rd day).

Act 1 : Kill this love, Pink Venom, How You Like That, Playing With Fire and Shut Down.

Act 2 (Jisoo & Lisa) : Jisoo : Hugs and Kisses and Earthquake

                                Lisa : Thunder and Fuck Up The World

Act 3 : Pretty Savage, Don’t Know What To Do, Whistle , Stay and Lovesick Girls

Act 4 (Jennie and Rosie) : Jennie : Like Jennie, ExtraL and Starlight

                                        Rose : 3 AM, Toxic Till The End and APT

Act 5 : Boombayah, Ddu du Ddu Du, As If It’s Your Last and Forever Young

Encore : Jump, Tally, Lalisa and Fuck the World.

Raymond Lam "Go With The Flow" concert 《GO WITH THE FLOW》林峯世界巡回演唱会吉隆坡站 - Axiata Arena Malaysia (15th November 2025)

After a 9-year absence from the concert scene, Raymond Lam strikes back with a vengeance, by completing 7 sold out shows at the Hong Kong Coliseum in May.  This was  followed by a world tour, which includes Japan for the first time (thanks to the new fan base, driven by the immensely popular “Twilight Of The Warriors” movie). I once attended all his 3 previous concerts in HK (as my bestie used to be a diehard fan) and based on my record in this blog, his last concert in Malaysia was for “Desire” tour back in 2011.  Yup, 14  years later, Raymond has finally included Malaysia in his comeback tour ! Prior to the concert, social media was abuzz with posts from fans who obtained free ticket upgrades (I guess ticket sales were not as encouraging as it would be).  Well, too bad, I wasn’t one of the lucky ones. Fortunately, the way the quick thinking organizer restructured the seats turned out to be a blessing in disguise coz the concert actually appeared jam packed and most importantly, the enthusiastic fans were very boisterous. The familiar Fung Forever yellow/green attires filled the VIP sections as well.

 Raymond set the concert in motion with his killer hit “爱不疚”.  This was followed by a string of fast paced songs.  Honestly. for HK singers to have a T-shaped stage in Axiata is already a pleasant surprise but the high spirited Raymond gave the crowd another bonus by literally covering all 360 degrees of the whole venue. He not only circled the arena but also went to the area behind the VIP seats to serenade spectators at the tiered seating.  All the VIP patrons had to turn around to watch Raymond belt out 4 classic love songs.  In fact, there were many super close interactions between Raymond and the fans (zero distance !). Raymond is such a natural in playing the crowd.  Raymond also expressed his excitement in performing at Axiata Arena for the first time and was full of compliments.

 Raymond has already divulged the name of his guest artiste prior to the concert and Jessica Hsuan also confirmed via her social media that she will be making an appearance. So, no surprise there.  This is actually a good move as many of Jessica’s devoted supporters actually flew to KL to support her, upon learning about her participation. They sang 爱在记忆中找你 and although Jessica doesn’t have very powerful voice, her performance is considered decent.  They also took the opportunity to promote their upcoming much awaited flick, “A Step To The Past” movie and encouraged fans to watch it in the cinemas. I have a hunch that there is a high chance of Louis, Raymond and Jessica coming over to our shores again to promote this movie when it hits the cinemas during the end of this year.  Just a few weeks ago, I was watching an old clip of Jessica emulating Faye Wong in a variety show.  And here we have Jessica singing the same song 流非飞 on this very day !

 While performing “忘记伤害”, images of Raymond’s past TV and movie role were broadcasted on the screen, eliciting screams from the audience.  Raymond mentioned that he is entering his 26^th year in the industry and hopes to be able to soldier on for another 20 years. Next comes the suspenseful moment when he brought out his props – the chairs.  In my mind, I was like “will he proceed with the controversial act or not in this Muslim country ?”.  So, when the intro of “Broken” started, he had my full attention !  Yes, he went ahead to “hump” the chair (for lack of a better term). I was kinda relieved that he had shorten the thrusting part coz personally, I find it awkward to include this act although he might have wanted to merely project it as another form of chair dancing.  The concert concluded within 2 hours ( I had expected it to be 2.5 hour).  Overall, I would still rate his concert an A+ as the setlist has a good mix of slow and up-tempo numbers, plus above all, he managed to maintain his vocal finesse and dance footwork is definitely still tip-top.   

曲目：爱不疚、Not Done with You、CHOK、Vampire、Once Again、Baby Lady、幼稚未完、幼稚完、Morning Cute、我又恋爱了、爱在三千的宇宙、忘记伤害、One More Time、爱在记忆中找你（宣萱合唱）、流非飞（宣萱）、唱情歌的人、心呼吸+同林+如果时间来到+直到你不找我+换个方式爱你+夏雪+旁观者悲+反话+记得忘记、Let’s Get Wet、ApocaLips、Broken、热能放送+Heart Attack+Nice