After BABYMONSTER solidifies its status as one of the year’s standout K-pop rookies in 2024, the girl group looks to expand their reach with fans around the world on their first world tour
The band tops the Billboard 200 with its first full-length album [DRIP] In November, the stars hit the charts with a “vibrant setlist” that included never-before-performed tracks from the LP as well as individual solo stages from the members hand, Farita, ASA, Ah Yin, Lamy, Lauraand Chiquita. Accompanied by a live band,
advertising billboard Meet up with MONSTIEZ about the creative process behind their tour, the band’s favorite moments and tracks from last year, as well as New Year’s greetings and messages for their loyal fans – endearingly known as MONSTIEZ.
Congratulations on announcing your first world tour! What does it mean to you that your first U.S. shows as a group will be at iconic venues like the Kia Forum and the Prudential Center?
hand: We are honored and excited to be hosting our first U.S. show at such an iconic venue. We promise to bring you an unforgettable performance, so stay tuned!
The name is really interesting, how did you decide on the name of your world tour? Is there a message you want to convey?
Lamy:
Chiquita: For the first time ever we’re announcing performances from our first full album, [DRIP]including solo stages and a vibrant setlist. We can’t wait to showcase not only the unique charisma of our seven members, but also the incredible synergy we share together.
The tour begins in Seoul in late January. Which songs are you most looking forward to performing? What should American fans expect from your show?
reply: I’m excited to perform songs we’ve never shared with our fans before! However, my favorite song to perform on stage is “BATTER UP (Remix)!”
ASA: Our American fans will experience our high-energy performances and dynamic stages. We hope to create special moments through music and performances that showcase our unique style. In addition, we look forward to connecting more closely with MONSTIEZ and sharing unforgettable moments together!
BABYMONSTER has received widespread attention for their live “band” performances of songs such as “SHEESH” and “FOREVER.” I hope this means you’ll be touring the US with a live band?
Ah Yin: We believe a live band is the best way to capture the energy and vibe of the moment, so we decided to use a band to perform every song! Each track’s rearrangement will bring a fresh, new vibe while adding an element that we hope you’ll find exciting and enjoyable.
Besides concerts, what are you looking forward to doing or experiencing in the Los Angeles or New York area?
Lamy: I wanted to hang out, shop, and enjoy delicious food on the streets of Los Angeles while soaking up the sunshine. In New York, I have to go to Times Square!
Taking a step back, 2024 is a landmark year for the group; what will be the most memorable?
Split: It’s hard to choose just one as there are so many unforgettable moments! However, my most memorable moment was performing at the year-end festival. This is both the most recent and the most memorable. This was my first time performing on such a big stage. From the new songs and choreography to the stage and costumes, everything was perfect and the performance was fun.
One of my personal highlights was watching BABYMONSTER perform as a guest at 2NE1’s comeback concert. What was your experience with these icons?
Chiquita: It’s such an honor to be able to perform on stage at 2NE1’s concert, and it feels like a dream – the seniors I’ve admired since I was a kid! Seeing their wonderful performances inspires me to keep improving and strive to do better on future stages.
BABYMONSTER won multiple new artist awards this year and was named the K-Pop New Artist of the Month. advertising billboard. What do these titles mean to you?
hand: After receiving the title of “Monster Newcomer”, we will continue to work hard to show our growth and constantly show new and different sides of ourselves.
The beginning of the year is often a time for setting goals. What are your dreams for 2025, both as a group and individually?
reply: 2024 is filled with amazing opportunities and achievements. I’m proud of all of our members and I hope we continue to grow and stay healthy during our 2025 tour.
ASA: As a group we hope to connect with more fans and share our music and performances with a wider audience on stages around the world. We also aim to continue challenging ourselves with new musical styles and show our growth. In 2025, we will work even harder to ensure we can share beautiful moments together.
advertising billboard always sharing its staff’s picks of the best songs of the year. What is your favorite song of 2024?
hand: “Die With a Smile” by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars
reply: “Good Graces” by Sabrina Carpenter
ASA: “POWER” by G-DRAGON
Ah Yin: keshi’s “soft spots”
Lamy: ROSÉ must be “poisonous to the end”! This is one of those songs that I listen to every day because I just love the melody and style of it!
Split: “Birds of a Feather” by Billie Eilish
Chiquita: “Billionaire” by BABYMONSTER
Any other information you would like to share with your international fans and advertising billboard reader?
Ah Yin: I hope everyone stays healthy and happy in the new year. We will work hard to ensure that 2025 is the year when we can take further steps and show a better version of ourselves. Thank you all and wish you all a happy new year.
Split: First of all, a big shout out to everyone for the hard work and dedication you have shown in 2024 – you are all awesome! 2024 is especially meaningful for BABYMONSTER because it marks the beginning of our journey. We worked incredibly hard, gave our best, and gained a lot of valuable experience. I sincerely thank everyone who supports us and we promise to become stronger and more incredible artists as time goes by. Last but not least, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to all advertising billboard Readers who love and support BABYMONSTER. Thank you so much!