K-pop sensation Stray kids celebrates global return at the London festival

Stray Kids, a popular K-pop group, called it a “career highlight” as they headlined the British Summer Time (BST) Hyde Park Festival on Sunday.
The eight-member group from South Korea started in 2018 through a reality show by JYP Entertainment. They have fans all over the world with their unique sound and hit songs like ‘God’s Menu,’ ‘S-Class,’ and ‘Maniac.’

The members, Changbin, Felix, Hyunjin, Lee Know, Han, Seungmin, Bang Chan, and I.N, returned to London after almost five years for their first UK festival performance.

“It’s a huge festival with a big space. We’re excited to see how our energy will change it,” said Han before their one-hour-and-40-minute set in front of thousands of fans.

Time magazine named Stray Kids as one of the Next Generation Leaders. Last year, they were third on the global recording artists list by IFPI, and their album “5-Star” was the second biggest-selling album globally.

In May, all eight members walked the famous MET Gala red carpet in custom Tommy Hilfiger suits. Bang Chan said they are thankful for their streaming success but want to keep making meaningful music for their fans, known as STAYs.

“A lot of STAYs and people are supporting us, so we keep working hard,” said Seungmin.

The group is also preparing for their “comeback” with a new EP called ‘ATE,’ released on July 19. Felix said ‘ATE’ stands for the eight members who have “eaten up” their comeback, and fans can expect new styles and concepts.

“It’s been a while since our last album. With this one, we want to show how genuine we are with music and offer various styles for everyone to enjoy,” said Bang Chan.

“We’re giving our all, and that makes us confident,” added Changbin.