From Seoul to Seattle: ONEWE Rocks El Corazon With Unmatched Energy
SEATTLE (May 7, 2025) — South Korean rock band ONEWE electrified Seattle with a raw, soul-stirring performance at El Corazon, marking a long-awaited stop on their North American tour. For fans who had been patiently waiting years to see the group live in the Emerald City, it was more than just a concert, it was a full-bodied experience of musicianship, humor and heartfelt connection.
Originally debuting in 2015 under the name MAS 0094, the five-member group rebranded as ONEWE in 2019 and has steadily built a loyal global fanbase. The lineup, Yonghoon, Harin, Kanghyun, Dongmyeong and Giuk, delivered on every front, from musicianship to stage presence, proving why they stand out in the ever-evolving Korean music scene.
Despite a slightly delayed start, with the lights going down at 7:20 p.m. instead of the scheduled 7:00, anticipation only heightened the crowd’s energy. The band opened with “Rain to Be,” launching into tight riffs and playful bass slaps that immediately ignited the room. Fans packed shoulder-to-shoulder in the sold-out, standing-room-only venue responded with deafening cheers.
After three high-octane songs, the band paused to introduce themselves and share a laugh about the unexpectedly warm greenroom, mirroring the heat radiating from the fervent crowd. When a fan shouted, “I love you!” the venue erupted in cheers, setting the tone for an evening filled with intimate fan interaction and spontaneous moments.
ONEWE continued their set with “EVILDOER,” showcasing their signature blend of gritty rock edge and melodic precision. Unlike many K-pop tours, where the focus often lies in choreography and pre-recorded elements, ONEWE delivered a fully live show, playing their own instruments, singing with jaw-dropping skill, and giving fans a concert experience rooted in authenticity and artistry. It was rock ’n’ roll through and through, with a Korean twist.
The set flowed effortlessly between high-energy bangers and emotional slow burns. “Kiss the Rain” offered a well-timed breather, a swooning ballad that had the audience swaying in unison. A minor hiccup during the song, vocalist Yonghoon coming in late on a line, was met with laughter and applause. A reminder to the audience that “Live is live”.
Mid-show, Dongmyeong left the stage briefly due to feeling unwell, but the band didn’t miss a beat. They treated the audience to a surprise run of English-language covers, including Billie Eilish’s “Tough Guy,” Shawn Mendes’ “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back,” and more. Dongmyeong made his triumphant return during “Roommate,” receiving a warm welcome from fans who yelled out “괜찮아?”, asking if he was ok.
After performing “Roommate,” the group shared the story behind the song’s lyrics, written with their fans, known as WEVE, in mind. The emotional resonance was palpable, and the band’s gratitude sincere.
In between songs, the band’s personalities truly shined. Yonghoon teased one fan who was yelling, “No money, no boyfriend,” in a joking tone reply said, “Oh, so sad. Are you okay?”, eliciting laughter from the crowd. Kanghyun chimed in with mock sympathy, “So sorry,” while Harin joined the front of the stage to join in the playful banter.
As the show neared its finale, Harin delivered a fiery drum solo that segued into a surprise instrumental tease of Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” a fitting tribute to Seattle’s grunge roots. From there, the band launched into “Crazy Good,” whipping the crowd into a frenzy with call-and-response chants and synchronized jumps.
They closed out the night with the soaring “Eraser,” wrapping up a long set that proved ONEWE isn’t just a band to watch, they’re a band to remember.
Seattle marked the penultimate stop on the group’s North American tour, which wrapped in Vancouver, B.C., on May 9.
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