JO1 performs at KCON LA 2026, debuting new songs and captivating fans ahead of their US debut EP 'ANIMAL' release in October.
August/18/2026 10:54Related Groups & Members
The global boys group JO1 performed at 'KCON LA 2026' held on August 17 (Monday) Japan time at the LA Convention Center/Crypto.com Arena in America. Ahead of their US debut in October and North American tour, they debuted four songs from their US debut EP 'ANIMAL', exciting the venue. JO1 traveled to the US for 'KCON LA 2026', where Junki Kono and Sho Yonashiro appeared daily on Los Angeles morning information programs 'CBS LA Mornings' and 'KTLA Weekend Morning News'. They spoke about their enthusiasm for their US debut and also appeared in the weather segment, promoting the group and their songs. This was their second consecutive appearance at 'KCON LA 2026', where they performed on two stages: 'ARTIST STAGE' and 'M COUNTDOWN STAGE'. On the 'ARTIST STAGE', they showcased all six songs, starting with 'WHATCHA DOIN', a pre-release track from their US debut, and surprised the audience with the first performance of the fast-paced and elegant hip-hop number 'STATUS'. Their skillful performance received great cheers. Additionally, 'SAKURA', which just had its lyric video released, boldly incorporated Japanese lyrics. During the performance, they interacted with local fans by stepping into the audience. They ended with a surprise performance of the title track 'ANIMAL', showcasing their wild and charismatic personalities, which made the local fans naturally cheer and sway. On the 'M COUNTDOWN STAGE', they energetically drew the audience into their performance with 'WHATCHA DOIN'. Their synchronized dance, filled with refined expression and vocal charm, captivated the audience. Yonashiro urged, 'Don't take your eyes off us!' and continued with 'BE CLASSIC (English ver.)', a song that symbolizes the group, which received loud cheers while maintaining an air of beauty. They concluded with 'SAKURA', starting with Keigo Sato's breath-like part, creating a festive atmosphere with unique choreography that excited the venue, and JO1 members occasionally smiled, captivating the audience with their free performance. JO1 performed new songs generously, making a strong appeal ahead of their US debut. The US original EP 'ANIMAL', set to be released on October 2, features all six tracks produced by world-renowned music producer and songwriter Dem Jointz, who has won multiple Grammy Awards. This work serves as a foothold for their US expansion, expressing their wildness with unconventional and raw sounds while proudly showcasing their identity as a Japanese group to the world. Many K-POP fans who had not known JO1 before witnessed their stage at 'KCON LA 2026'. After the live performance, comments from new fans attracted to JO1 poured in, such as 'Someone tell me his name', 'After seeing them how do I get into them?', and 'I think I might get into JO1'.
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