South Korean singer Crush proved once again why he is one of the country’s most captivating live performers. Over three nights, from December 20 to 22, he enthralled audiences at Seoul’s KSPO Dome (Olympic Gymnastics Arena) with CRUSH HOUR: O. With a setlist of more than 30 songs and an audience spanning teenagers to senior citizens, Crush created a universally enjoyable experience.
The concert opened with a high-energy sequence of four consecutive songs, showcasing his mastery of R&B and hip-hop. Tracks like Cereal, Don't Forget, and Sometimes quickly set the tone for the evening. Overwhelmed by the scale of the event, Crush shared his gratitude with fans: “Filling the KSPO Dome as a performer is a monumental achievement, and I’m simply thankful to have the chance to perform here for three days.”
The Christmas season brought a special twist to the concert. Crush surprised fans by appearing in the audience, singing carols like Last Christmas and Jingle Bells with his own unique arrangements, further connecting with the crowd.
Highlights of the night included renditions of iconic OST tracks, such as Beautiful from the hit drama Goblin and Sorry, I Hate You, I Love You from Queen of Tears, performed on a rising platform for a dramatic effect.
The guest performances were another standout feature. AKMU joined the stage on the first night, while Jay Park electrified the second night with a high-energy performance, complete with a shirtless segment. Psy made a surprise appearance on the final night, bringing his unmatched stage charisma to elevate the show’s energy to its peak.
The finale was marked by Crush’s hit Rush Hour, which had the audience dancing in their seats. Fans were further treated to encore performances of Don’t Forget, SHE, and an unreleased track, Far-sighted.
Crush’s meticulous attention to detail shone throughout the show, from his flawless vocal execution and dynamic ad-libs to a well-curated setlist supported by a live band. The storytelling aspect of the concert, centered around the theme of "O" (a circle), emphasized the interconnectedness and cyclical nature of life.
Reflecting on the concert’s success, Crush revealed his challenges leading up to the event, including a back surgery just months prior. “I was nervous and unsure if I could complete these performances safely,” he admitted. “But thanks to the incredible support of everyone who came, we made it through safely and successfully. I’m deeply grateful.”
Crush ended the evening with a promise to his fans: “I hope Crush Hour can become an annual tradition. I’ll continue to work hard, stay healthy, and bring you great music every year.”
Sayart / Sharon Jung, guhuijeong784@gmail.com
