From First-Time Listener to Fan: KINO’s Impactful Seattle Tour Stop

KINO brought Seattle to life with an intimate solo performance, blending his hits and PENTAGON classics.

There’s something to be said about K-Pop idols picking small, intimate venues to connect with their fans when embarking on their solo tours. KINO's "I Think I Think Too Much" stop in Seattle on January Wednesday, 29th truly captured that essence. The venue was packed with an energy that matched KINO's confidence on stage, making it a night that felt personal and unforgettable. As one of the final stops on his tour, the crowd buzzed with anticipation—knowing this was a rare opportunity to see KINO in his element, surrounded by UNIVERSE (PENTAGON fandom name) who were ready to share in his musical journey.

As someone unfamiliar with PENTAGON's complete discography, having missed the K-Pop scene at the height of their popularity, I found attending KINO’s solo concert with someone who considers PENTAGON their ultimate K-Pop group a whole new experience. Seeing the concert through their eyes made it all the more meaningful. For them, KINO’s solo journey wasn’t just a performance—it was an emotional, full-circle moment. Watching KINO take the stage, not just as a member of PENTAGON but as an artist fully embracing his individuality, was awe-inspiring, to say the least. He was completely in the moment, living unscripted and unfiltered—giving us a side of him that felt so authentic.

The cold outside Seattle didn't stand a chance against the heat that KINO brought on stage. As soon as he appeared, the atmosphere inside the venue shifted. He carried himself with a magnetic confidence, filling every corner of the room with his presence. Watching KINO perform was like watching someone effortlessly command the stage, delivering not just a concert but an experience. His fan service was impeccable, and he always took time to engage with the crowd—whether it was through a few words, a smile, or a quick glance at UNIVERSE throughout the venue. You could tell he was completely in tune with his fans, and it made the entire show feel like a shared moment.

What struck me the most was how KINO’s setlist wasn’t just a lineup of songs—it was a reflection of his artistic journey. You could sense his growth as a songwriter and performer with each performance. The setlist was a revolving mix of his recent solo releases like “Broke My Heart,” “Everglow,” “Skyfall,” “Fashion Style,” and “Freaky Love,” with PENTAGON classics like “Shine,” “Spring Snow,” and “Nostalgia.” The crowd’s energy was electric, with UNIVERSE fully immersed in the music and singing along passionately. These songs felt like a perfect mix of freshness and nostalgia. Even in his solo spotlight, the PENTAGON tracks held a deep resonance, reminding UNIVERSE of KINO’s roots and the special place those songs still occupy in both his heart and theirs.

Seeing KINO live completely shifted my perspective on him. While his TikTok reels and Instagram stories show his fun, charismatic side, the KINO who took the stage in Seattle had a whole different energy—authentic, grounded, and effortlessly cool. It takes a lot of courage and confidence to step out on your own, and KINO did just that with ease. His performance wasn’t just entertaining; it felt like an intimate conversation with UNIVERSE—warm, sincere, and deeply personal. He’s the kind of artist you can’t help but want to support.

KINO’s "I Think I Think Too Much" tour showcases his evolution as an artist (period), and the Seattle stop was an unforgettable chapter in his journey. It was a night of genuine connection—not just between KINO and UNIVERSE but also among fans who gathered to witness him shine. As the final stop in Los Angeles approaches, it’s clear that KINO has firmly established himself as a solo artist to watch. For those fortunate enough to be in Seattle, the energy in the room was a testament to how much he’s already accomplished—and we can only hope he returns again for more unforgettable moments in the future.