Now I’m not sure if K-Concert is an actual term, but I am using it to indicate a Korean concert. There’s K-Pop and K-dramas, so why not K-Concert? Either way, in November I traveled with a friend to Chicago to see a favorite Korean American artist of mine, Jay Park.

Some of you might have a few questions. And to answer some of them, yes, I did just go to Chicago in October. To answer another, for those of you who know who Jay Park is, I still consider him to be a part of K-Pop because although he is American, a lot of his songs are in Korean as well, which is how I categorize it.

So yes, once again I spent a weekend in Chicago. I was able to visit different areas of the city this time, and of course the highlight of this trip was for the concert, which was everything I imagined and more. It was the third concert I have ever been to, and it was a much different experience than the ones previous. The friend I went with is also a fan of K-Pop, so our weekend was spent talking about favorite groups and members as well as planning future trips.

Since it was close to Christmas, we were able to attend a Light Festival in the city as well. Even though it was cold and hard to see, the floats were still fun. We also explored a park and bookstore, went to a zoo and ate delicious food. My friend found a gluten free place called Wheat’s End Cafe, which I highly suggest. I will be dreaming of their popovers for the rest of my life, to say the least.

As for the concert, it was in a smaller venue, which was nice because we were able to see Jay Park on stage, rather than having to bring binoculars along. All of the tickets were for the floor, meaning that we had to stand and didn’t have assigned seats, but it was nice to have the option of standing near the back, or fighting for a spot close to the stage. Of course, I chose to be near the back as to avoid being squished in the crowd up front.

The line to get into the concert wrapped around the building into the surrounding neighborhood, and while we were waiting, we had a conversation with the people in front of us about other K-Pop groups, concerts, and places to travel. It’s always refreshing to me to talk to people who have the same interests as me, specifically when it comes to K-Pop.

The actual concert was so much fun. I was surrounded by people who love Jay Park as much as I do, and I got to hear and see him perform live. And by the way, he is beautiful, sounds amazing live, can rap and sing, and dances well. If I get another opportunity, I will definitely be seeing him again.

Next on the list is to see a newer K-Pop group, SuperM, in Vancouver in February. That is going to be hype. Also, much crazier and more crowded than this one. Yet another new experience.