On December 11, 2024, South Korean media outlet Star News reported that KBS is scheduled to host its first-ever 2025 Countdown Show: LIGHT NOW. The event is reported to be an outdoor celebration designed to bring in the New Year with celebrations. Inspired by the annual Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve from Times Square, the event hopes to establish itself as South Korea's premier year-end celebration.
On December 31, 2024, the event will begin at 11 pm KST and will be held in two different locations in Seoul, the SHINSEGAE SQUARE in Myeongdong and the outdoor plaza near Seoul Central Post Office.
Those who cannot be here in person can join the celebration through a live broadcast on KBS 2TV or online streaming on the KBS KPOP and KBS Entertainment YouTube channels.
As the clock strikes at midnight, a grand countdown will be displayed on a massive LED screen at SHINSEGAE SQUARE, which is followed by a series of fireworks to light up the Seoul skyline.
The event will feature a stellar lineup of performers from various musical genres, making it a night to remember. Among the big names gracing the stage are J.Y. Park, the singer, and CEO of JYP Entertainment. Moreover, Xdinary Heroes, Kep1er, and other K-pop idols will also join the roster of performers.
From J.Y.Park to Choi Yu-ree: list of all the performers for KBS' 2025 Countdown Show: LIGHT NOW
Here’s the complete list of performers for the 2025 Countdown Show: LIGHT NOW:
- J.Y. Park
- 2AM
- Kep1er
- Jannabi
- Xdinary Heroes
- Byul
- Stella Jang
- Choi Yu-ree
- SAY MY NAME
- Xikers
- NOWADAYS
- BADVILLAIN
- ALL(H)OURS
This inaugural event marks a shift for the broadcasting station, traditionally hosting its Drama Awards as a year-end highlight. While actors and audiences previously rang in the New Year together during the awards ceremony, this year's Countdown Show promises a more vibrant and dynamic way to welcome 2025.
KBS plans to make this event an annual tradition under the banner of the Special Seoul Countdown Show, solidifying its place in South Korea's festive calendar.
More about the inspiration behind KBS' 2025 Countdown Show: LIGHT NOW
The 2025 Countdown Show: LIGHT NOW takes inspiration from the iconic Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. It is a celebrated U.S. event featuring live performances and the famous Times Square ball drop.
Known for showcasing global stars, the American show has welcomed several K-pop acts over the years. BTS made history in 2019 with performances of Make It Right and Boy With Luv, followed by J-hope’s solo stage in 2022. NewJeans and TOMORROW X TOGETHER too had been a part of that event as well.
With its blend of live music, iconic locations, and a celebratory atmosphere, the 2025 Countdown Show: LIGHT NOW is poised to become a memorable addition to New Year’s Eve traditions.
Whether attending in person or watching from the comfort of home, it’s an event not to be missed.