Coldplay x Korea: A BTS Twist and TWICE-Filled Opening After 8 Years

British rock band Coldplay held a stunning comeback concert in Korea on April 16, performing at the Goyang Sports Complex Main Stadium for the first time in eight years. From the opening song “Higher Power,” the band captivated fans with dazzling visuals and immersive sound.

TWICE Heats Up the Stage as Opening Guest

Before Coldplay took the stage, K-pop group TWICE delivered an electrifying one-hour set, performing fan favorites like “TT,” “Dance the Night Away,” and “Cheer Up.” A highlight of the night came when Coldplay fans enthusiastically joined in on TWICE’s stage. TWICE is set to perform as the opening act at all six of Coldplay’s Korea shows, warming up the crowd from 6:45 PM until the main show begins at 8:00 PM.

Chris Martin Greets Fans in Korean

Coldplay frontman Chris Martin melted hearts by greeting fans in Korean. “Please forgive my clumsy Korean. I’m so happy to be here with you." His effort earned thunderous cheers from the crowd.

A BTS Cameo — Without Being There

One of the most anticipated moments of the concert was Coldplay’s performance of “My Universe,” their global collaboration with BTS. While the BTS members did not appear in person, Chris Martin called out each of their names one by one, and the group made a surprise virtual appearance on screen, dancing along with Coldplay during the performance.

In a lighthearted moment, Martin also invited a male fan holding a sign about military service onto the stage. He joked, “My friends in BTS are also in the military,” drawing laughter and cheers from the crowd. Later, Martin mentioned BTS again during his closing remarks, highlighting the ongoing friendship between the artists.

Coldplay’s Eco-Conscious Tour

Beyond the music, Coldplay’s “Music of the Spheres World Tour” has drawn praise for its strong commitment to environmental sustainability. The tour incorporates renewable energy sources and carbon reduction technologies, including solar panels, stationary bikes that generate electricity, a ban on single-use plastics, and sustainably made merchandise—all part of the group’s effort to deliver ESG-focused live shows.

The Goyang performance is just the beginning. Coldplay will perform five more shows at the same venue through April 25, with a total expected audience of 300,000 people. According to organizers, this marks the largest audience size and the highest number of concert dates by any international artist in Korean history, making it one of the most significant tours ever held in the country.

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