"If we could go back to 2018 (debut year), I would want to show ATEEZ this scene."
The ATINY (fandom name) continued.
"65,000 people gathered to see ATEEZ in Turkey!"
The members were also surprised.
The fans waited 8 years, and finally met.
[Dispatch | Istanbul, Turkey = Reporter Gu Min-ji] ATEEZ proved their global popularity once again. They captured Asia, North America, Europe, and now Turkey.
ATEEZ took the stage at the 'Istanbul Festival' held at Yenikapı in Istanbul on the 15th. More people visited the venue than the organizers had initially expected.
The cheers for ATEEZ were passionate even from the other side of the globe. They completed group chants in Korean, and even mastered the choreography. Many fans also showcased fluent Korean.
'Dispatch' was present for ATEEZ's first visit to Turkey. We captured the heated meeting with 65,000 local fans. We have also prepared a gift for ATINY.
Before ATEEZ arrived, Istanbul was already filled with ATEEZ.
"Audiences began lining up several hours before the performance to see ATEEZ. The waiting line extended to the road. Long queues stretching several kilometers formed at the venue." (Local media report)
"The day that seemed like it wouldn't come has arrived!"
"I can't believe I can see them with my own eyes."
ATEEZ has been on stage many times over the past 8 years. Most Istanbul fans have been watching from behind the screen. They were thrilled to hear the news of the first visit.
Most notably, Korean was heard everywhere. Turkish fans laughed, saying "We learned Hangul by liking ATEEZ, and our interest in Korea grew."
The stars of the day have arrived.
The local media's interview enthusiasm was high that day. ATEEZ handled it skillfully. The members' witty answers and bright reactions made the atmosphere at the venue more comfortable.
Finally, ATEEZ rushed to their fans.
A city they visited for the first time
But when the song started, there was no unfamiliar place.
Fast rap too
65,000 people echoed in unison.
"Actually, since this is our first performance in Istanbul, I came very nervous. I'm so happy you welcomed us. I hope ATINY had a good time too." (Hongjoong)
ATEEZ gave it their all in response to the Turkish fans' cheers.
ATEEZ performed 10 songs that day.
Strong, strong, strong, strong.
There was no rest from beginning to end. One song ended and another intense stage followed. Explosive energy, sharp choreography, and the members' passion filled the stage.
"Say My Name, a little louder"
Leader Hongjoong sat in a chair due to an injury and participated in the stage.
"How can I hold back when ATINY is chanting?"
Today, it's doberman
The intense gaze
Changes like this when looking at the fans.
A maestro fallen in love, Haribo (Jongho)
"We missed you as much as you missed us." (Wooyoung)
"As expected, our ATINY" (Yeosang)
"Turkey ATINY, I'll come back to see you again. Promise" (Yunho)
The fans' Korean placards
Make the members smile.
"Eight years after debut, I stood on the Turkey stage. I really want to tell you that I'm grateful that you waited for us." (Hongjoong)
"I will not forget the cheers and eyes you sent today. We will also continue to be artists who can give you good music." (Seonghwa)
Back on stage at the fans' call
The hexagonal idol's ending
"Let's definitely meet again."
And there's something many ATINY have been waiting for. It's a photo from ATEEZ's waiting room. Led by 'Ttung-al-ttung-al' Seonghwa, photos of the members watching the filming and marveling have become a hot topic.
"Two-meter legs Yunho, vampire Yeosang, eye-hole Wooyoung, man's demon Mingi, exposed maknae Jongho"
Even that 'kaymak grand duke'
We're spoiling it for ATINY.
ATEEZ's hilarious photos will be released on 'Meme' Instagram (@myidol_miim).
<Photos by Jung Young-woo>
