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The Adventure Comes To A Close: Kpop-Alypse-Kon Day 2 Recap

April 28, 2015

Day Two of Kpop-Alypse-Kon brought on a whole different adventure. From fun Korean culture discussions to heated performances, this really was a day to remember. Let the recap of KPK 2015’s final day commence!

The day opened with an informative and fun series of panels. Some of the conventions very own staff members helped to educate attendees on the proper ways of eating in Korea, along with proper dating etiquette. Did you know that when eating, you shouldn’t rush or take too long? It is also important to pour the drinks for others, especially your seniors. When offered a drink, never refuse and always use two hands when extending the glass. Dining manners also plays in with dating, where manners are crucial. Public displays of affection are often frowned upon, a small peck excluded. Each stop is paid for by a separate person whilst on a date, it’s only fair! Be prepared for couples goodies! There is so much to learn!

JBKPOP hosted a fun and immersion intensive session. The girls (Jenn, Britt, and Kelli) educated attendees on the ways and workings of a collaboration, from proper collab etiquette to side discussion on the term Koreaboo. Throughout the session, attendees with the most participation had the chance to win 4minute’s new album, ‘Crazy’.

After a fun morning of panels, the noon time was occupied with a fun panel on Kpop bromance and Meet & Greets! The Bromance panel, hosted by yours truly, was a fun filled adventure! We started with everyone introducing themselves and their favorite OTP , followed with some drool worthy videos. The panel was wrapped up with a showing of parody.

Next up were the M&G sessions! Each session was completely filled, each seat taken by a fan eager to learn more about the long awaited guests. The guests Mister PoPo, Aaron, Gemini, and Alan Z took time to introduce themselves and what they were all about. These stand up men are such inspirations. Mister Polo, as a Youtuber and producer, you have accomplished so much and have big plans for the future. Whatever comes your way, remember your fans will always love and support you! Performers Aaron, Gemini, and Alan Z have all come so far. Their accomplishments lead them down a path that will only end in success. Their spirits are always high, as are their hopes. Each guest’s interaction with the attendees showed a side of themselves that most people wouldn’t be able to see. It was a blessing to stand in the same room as these amazing men.

Next up was the performances! Just as the first performer was set to come on stage, our staff ran into a pothole. The microphones and equipment was refusing to cooperate! The staff took some time to assess the situation. The technology seemed to be throwing a hissy fit and interruptions were inevitable. But, with focus and perseverance, the performers and staff pushed through. The artists performed despite the roadblock, delivering stunning performances to the attendees. It was a sight to watch as the guests took charge.

The first to perform was Hee Sun Lee. She delivered a stellar performance with remixes of BTS’s ‘We Are Bullet Proof’, Epik High’s ‘Born Hater’, and BAP’s ‘One Shot’. Hee Sun also performed her original songs, ‘I Get In’ and ‘Life Is Too Short’. The rapper was accompanied by her DJ and hype man, who helped to deliver a hard hitting stage. Mic troubles aside, the beloved Hee Sun was still able to get the crowd on their feet. The performance was wrapped up with a awesome acapella rap from her hype man and her hit, ‘Breaking Stereotypes’. I was honored to finally be able to watch such an influential individual perform. Her image has portrayed her as a strong female rapper, but she is so much more. Thank you for allowing me the chance to see you perform.

Next up was Double The FIRE. This D.C based duo put their skills on display as they performed covers of 2AM’s ‘Take My Hand’, Akdong Musician’s ‘Melted’, VIXX’s ‘Error’, Amber’s ‘Shake That Brass’, Trouble Maker’s ‘Now’, and other hit songs. Fans were also graced with the chance to hear their original single, ‘Forbidden Love’ Their strong vocals harmonized beautifully, enticing the fans to sing along. Not only did they sing, they dance as well! The mics could not seem to handle their talent as the cords cut out, but 2XTF never stopped and brought a performance to their fans. They embodied true performers! Having been a long time fan of the duo, it was such an experience to see them live. I was even able to snap a selca with the two of them!

KPK’s next performer was singer/songwriter/performer Gabriela Lo Basso. The Pennsylvania native delivered a spectacular stage to the fans. From Beast’s ‘Beautiful Night’ to EXO’s ‘Run’ and Taemin’s ‘Danger’, Gabriela never failed to deliver, even despite a power outage. The singer performer even without a mic, proving that nothing could stop her from providing to the attendees. Everybody should most definitely check out and subscribe to her YouTube channel, Ms. Lo Basso is a gift to the music world.

The last scheduled performer of the evening was the dance group, STAMPede! The NYC based group was everything we were hoping for and more. Their strong and awe inspiring performance was enough to get anyone to start learning dancing. The group danced to a mashup of different songs from Mino’s ‘I’m Him’ to 4minute’s ‘Crazy’. The amount of emotion that shown on each members face proved that they put their heart and soul into every performance. I was blessed with the chance to sit down and get to know a bit about these amazing dancers. Thank you so much for being an inspiration to people everywhere. Your fresh dance moves can get a group of people on their feet!

Just as everyone believed the night was over, the staff surprised us with a special stage featuring Alan Z, Gemini, and Aaron Lim! The boys delivered another breathtaking performance, tugging the heart strings of every person in the crowd. This was a chance for everyone to see a more up close representation of each performers character. Attendees got the chance of a lifetime to engage with Gemini and Alan Z in a game of Pepero! When will their playful antics end?

The night finished off with a fun VIP party, food provided by Koreana! The party was filled with exciting socialization and dancing. Kpop-Alypse-Kon ended with a bang, leaving many patrons wanting more. The con itself was a weekend to remember, with exciting events that left fans talking about it for weeks. Kmusic is honored to have been able to cover such an amazing event. Here’s to next year, and every great memory in the making!

Look forward to our final installment in the KPK recap trilogy, our performance and interview footage!

Photos courtesy of Janalee Afonso. Thanks again for you contribution. Your pictures are stellar as always!

Edited By : LeighDarling