Why Are K-pop Concerts Skipping Manila?

When Park Jihoon’s fan-con was suddenly moved to Macau, fans were understandably disappointed. His agency cited only “unavoidable circumstances,” but the announcement reignited a question that has been growing louder with every new tour reveal: Why are K-pop concerts skipping Manila?

It’s Become a Pattern

Upon closer inspection, Park Jihoon isn’t the only artist whose initial 2026 tour plans left out the Philippines. BIGBANG, Stray Kids, ENHYPEN, NMIXX, ILLIT, Irene of Red Velvet, Sandara Park, and T.O.P are other names fans have noticed. 

While they have given disclaimers that they’ll add more dates and cities later, Manila would usually be listed right away. This detail has become difficult to ignore, especially with how energetic we are during concerts.

More Than Just Taxes

It’s become common for fans to blame the country’s tax structure. But while taxes may play a role in the issue, they’re only a piece of a bigger puzzle.

Bringing a K-pop concert (or any international act, for that matter) to Manila means covering artist fees, venue rental, production, logistics, staffing, permits, marketing, and other operational costs. Promoters would’ve already invested a significant amount way before tickets go on sale.

So if projected sales don’t justify the risk, some may choose not to bid for a Manila stop at all.

A Very Competitive Tour Map

Another reason for K-pop concerts skipping Manila may be that Southeast Asia has become far more competitive. Cities like Bangkok, Jakarta, and Kuala Lumpur offer cheaper concert tickets (based on exchange rates), modern venues, and strong tourism markets. A prime example of this is Klook selling travel packages for those attending the BTS “ARIRANG” world tour in Singapore this December.

At the same time, fans have more concerts and fanmeets to choose from than ever before. Because even though we have a strong K-pop community, spending is now spread across multiple events, making sell-outs less certain.

READ: The Anti-Ticket Scalping Act and What it Means for Concertgoers

So why are K-pop concerts skipping Manila? It’s likely not a single issue but a combination of economics, logistics, and growing competition across the region. If the Philippines wants to remain on tour lists, perhaps it’s time to ask not only what artists want but also what the industry needs to make Manila an easier city to choose.