RIIZE Star Shotaro's Heartfelt Speech at IU's Concert Leaves Fans Touched

Singer IU made a dazzling return to the stage after nearly 5 years, kicking off the 2024 HER world tour in Seoul at the KSPO DOME. The concert featured a star-studded lineup of guest performances from personalities including ITZY, aespa, Yoo Jae Suk, and others. Interestingly, IU’s boyfriend, actor Lee Jong Suk, was also in the audience to support his lady love. The concert proved to be a delightful treat for IU’s fans, known as Uaena, with impressive performances from NewJeans and RIIZE as well. RIIZE, in a touching gesture, decided to wear matching outfits featuring IU’s name and heart. The highlight of the event was Shotaro’s message to Uaena, which left them teary-eyed and excited.

During the concert, members of RIIZE took a moment to express their gratitude to IU and her fandom for their support. Shotaro, in particular, left a lasting impression when he urged their fans to shower IU with their continued love and support. This sincere request resonated with the audience. As per an X post, the South Korean artist said, “Uaena are seniors to our BRIIZE right? If you ever meet them at a concert or other event in the future, please take care of our BRIIZE.”

Meanwhile, another post by Shotaro is circulating on the internet, where the RIIZE member thanked IU’s fans, Uaena. He further revealed receiving a gift and a handwritten letter from IU in Japanese, a gesture that deeply touched his heart. The original text, written in Korean, read, “I’m not sure if there were any BRIIZE, but Uaena cheered a lot, so I had a really enjoyable performance. Thank you, I hope to meet Uaena seniors and BRIIZE’ later and I received a gift and a handwritten letter from senior IU. Even the letter was written in Japanese. Really touched. Although I couldn’t see the whole performance, watching from backstage, it was so cool to see experienced fans enjoying the stage. There were many familiar songs, so I wanted to attend the concert. It was truly an honour to be on such a stage.”

Debuting in 2008, IU quickly rose to fame and became one of Korea’s most celebrated solo artists. Her hit songs include Good Day, YOU&I, The Red Shoes, Through the Night, Lilac and many more. In 2011, she made her acting debut in the series Dream High and later appeared in the 2023 movie Dream. Currently, IU is charming her fans with the ongoing HER World Tour, marking her first tour in 5 years since the Love, Poem concert in 2019. After Seoul, IU will be travelling to various venues around the globe, including Yokohama, Japan, Taipei, Taiwan, Singapore and London.