Annyeong! So, if you’re planning on going to KCON LA for the first time this year, there are probably a lot of questions running through your head that have not been answered by the official website or blog of KCON. Never fear, Michelle is here! As a result of attending KCON for the past two years, I’ve gained a better understanding of what the event entails and how best to survive this three day bonanza of Hallyu goodness, so here are some of my pro tips for what to do and what to bring to KCON LA 2016.
What to wear:
- Something comfortable, probably not a skirt – you’ll be sitting down, walking and running all over the place
- Tennis shoes – trust me, people will step on your shoes ALL the time at this crowded convention and concert so make sure to bring something you wouldn’t mind getting dirty
- Nothing white – because it’ll be black by the end of the day
What to bring:
- Water bottle
- Phone
- Portable phone charger (charge your charger beforehand!)
- Cash & ID
- Some sort of small bag/knapsack
- Chapstick
- Hat
Tips:
- Wear sunscreen and minimal makeup. Even though the convention is outside, there’ll be plenty of times you’ll have to be outside. For example, I had to wait outline in a long line to get into the red carpet event — for an hour! Also, when you go out to eat lunch, you’ll likely be sitting on a bench outside, so be prepared. Honestly, your makeup will probably melt off by the end of the day.
- If you have P2 Standing tickets, wait EARLY to get good spots.
- If you have P3, try to find a ticket with a seat that’s near a walkway because it’s very possible that a group will walk down to make their entrance instead of the typical stage entrance on the ground level – last year, two or three groups walked down and fans were within touching distance!
- TRADE YOUR VOUCHERS for the artists that you want to see. I personally found that fan engagements weren’t worth it, so I sold some of mine and got some money back. Choose your battles.
- Go to all the surprise events – on the KCON schedule (which will probably be released the day before or of the event), there will likely be some slots that say “surprise event”. Artists can make appearances or perform for a short time so always be ready early for these events (which will be held on the convention stage)!
- Keep walking around the convention – you never know what artists will randomly pop up and walk around. Last year, GOT7 was walking around and I happened to be in line for their fan engagement so I missed the opportunity to see them. Not making that mistake again this year.
- Use the Facebook group for selling/buying tickets – as the event gets closer, people will be selling their tickets for lower prices so if you want to save on some money, keep a close eye on the posts in the Facebook group. Also, people will be selling their vouchers on the page so remember to keep checking it during the event as well.
And that’s it! Just remember, KCON will likely have small problems throughout the day – there’s a LOT of people there. It happens. But don’t get frustrated. Remember that you paid a lot of money to come here and you deserve to have fun with other Hallyu fans. Make the most of your experience and enjoy a weekend full of Hallyu and Korean culture loving.
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