Lollapalooza Embraces K-Pop with an Expanded Lineup in 2025

CHICAGO, IL — Lollapalooza, one of the largest music festivals in the world, is set to showcase more K-pop artists than ever in 2025, reflecting the genre’s growing global influence.

This year’s festival includes headliners like j-hope from BTS, who will perform in Berlin, marking another leap for K-pop artists on major stages. In 2022, j-hope became the first Korean artist to headline a major U.S. festival when he took the stage in Chicago. Other K-pop acts like IVE and TWICE will perform across different locations such as Berlin, Paris, and Chicago, ensuring a diverse representation of the genre.

Lollapalooza started its international expansion in the early 2010s and has since reached audiences in South America, Europe, and India. By July 2025, the festival will include concerts in Germany, France, and conclude with a four-day event in Chicago, embracing a variety of genres.

The festival began in 1991 as a farewell tour for the band Jane's Addiction, evolving into a diverse celebration of music and culture. Perry Farrell’s vision led it to become not just a musical event but a cultural hub featuring art and political discourse. This adaptability and inclusivity have allowed Lollapalooza to stand out among festivals.

K-pop at Lollapalooza is no longer a novelty; it has become a norm, intertwining with mainstream music. This year’s lineup showcases major male soloists and girl groups, as well as emerging artists, reflecting the current state of K-pop.

As global interest in K-pop grows, Lollapalooza capitalizes on this trend, providing K-pop artists a platform to reach wider audiences while allowing festivalgoers to experience new cultures. This strategic approach represents a shift in how music festivals can embrace cultural diversity and showcase different musical styles.

The expanded K-pop presence at Lollapalooza signifies the genre’s establishment within the global music landscape, breaking down linguistic barriers and promoting cultural exchange.