How to Watch the SBS Inkigayo Live in Korea
I’ve always been curious how fans secure tickets to live music shows in Korea. I can imagine how amazing it will be to witness your ult group or idol’s comeback stage. Some idols even hand out gifts or prepare coffee trucks for their fans who support them in these shows. That would be an epic “successful fan” experience for me.
Image taken by Ginyn
Last month, I got a dream opportunity: the online travel platform Trazy invited me to attend SBS Inkigayo for free. All I needed to do in exchange was review the experience on their platform and post about my experience on my social media platforms. Of course, I couldn’t pass it up! I made arrangements right away and started looking into the “lore” of live Korean music shows.
“이게 뭐야?” (What is this?): What is SBS Inkigayo?
Image Source: Trazy / SBS Inkigayo
Running since 1998, Inkigayo is a live music chart program broadcasted by one of South Korea’s premier TV networks, SBS. It airs every Sunday and features various performances from the hottest artists. Aside from idol groups and soloists, other new or rookie singers also perform.
Image Source: Koreaboo
Over the past two decades, Inkigayo has been hosted by Hallyu celebrities. It would be pivotal in hyping up the names of some actors and idols as power duo or trio MCs. Case in point: JinJiDo (composed of GOT7‘s Jinyoung, BLACKPINK‘s Jisoo, and NCT‘s Doyoung). Currently, it is being hosted by Han Yujin (Zerobaseone), actor Moon Seong-hyun, and Leeseo (IVE).
Image Source: WeVerse
In the current format, there is also an “Inkigayo Chart” highlighting the top three most popular songs of the week. The ranking is based on multiple criteria like digital streaming and downloads, album sales, and votes (a sample of which was posted in a SEVENTEEN thread on WeVerse). A winner gets recognized and awarded with a trophy every week.
Given the exciting performances and star-studded lineups every week, watching the Inkigayo is definitely a dream for K-pop multistans like me.
“어떻게?” (What to do?): How Can Foreigners Watch the SBS Inkigayo?
After much research, I found out that it’s actually possible to watch music shows like SBS Inkigayo for free–but the chances are slim for foreigners. On the other hand, there’s an easier option–but it comes with a price!
Option 1: The Free & DIY Route (Difficult for Foreigners)
Yes, it’s possible to attend Inkigayo for free, but the chances for foreigners are slim. Here’s why:
- Application Process: You need to apply via the show’s website or app, often weeks in advance.
- Korean Language Skills: Instructions and requirements are usually in Korean.
- Korean Phone Number: A local number is mandatory for most applications.
- Fan Membership: Official fan club membership for a specific group may be required.
- Competition: Slots are extremely limited and in high demand (much like a concert ticketing war!).
Option 2: Paid K-Pop Tour Packages (Easiest & Guaranteed Slot)
If you’re a foreigner and want a stress-free, guaranteed way to watch Inkigayo, paid K-pop tour packages are the best option. These tours include:
- Guaranteed Inkigayo entry (no need to apply or compete for a slot!)
- English & Chinese-speaking guides to assist you
- Optional K-pop walking tours
Top Tour Providers
There are travel agencies authorized in Korea to conduct K-Pop tours where the highlight is watching the SBS Inkigayo. Sure, you will need to pay a fee, and it’s not cheap (about 165 USD as of this writing). However, you’ll get a sure slot and even an optional walking tour you can join, too. Among them are:
Which Option is Better?
- If you speak Korean, have a local phone number, and are an official fan club member, try the free DIY route.
- If you want a sure slot without the hassle, paid tours are the way to go.
“진짜로?” (Really?): What You Really Need to Know Before Watching SBS Inkigayo
1. The Right Time and Place
The recording takes place in SBS’ Open Hall in Deungchon-dong, Gangseo-gu, Seoul. There are several SBS buildings that are far from each other, so you need to pin this down! The schedule is every Sunday from 3:40–4:50 PM KST, but participants are usually gathered around two hours before the show. Make sure you allot enough time in your itinerary for this. (Disclaimer: Unfortunately, cancellations can happen–for instance, if there’s an urgent broadcast or some other event that will take up the Inkigayo time slot).
2. The Lineup
The actual lineup gets confirmed two or three days before the show. The most accurate information can be gotten from the SBS website. Sometimes, fan cafes will also announce SBS Inkigayo stages weeks ahead (to hold raffles for the slots). (Pro tip: Once you know the lineup, research the groups, so you can enjoy the show more!)
3. Unplug and Enjoy!
Like in many studios, food and drinks will not be allowed in the SBS Open Hall. Another important thing to keep in mind: recording anything with your phone is not allowed! Anyone caught can get escorted out of the show. Since you can’t take photos or videos, you can fully enjoy the performances and just watch the official recordings that SBS uploads right after the show. Some artists will casually walk in front of you or wave from afar. No better reason to unplug than to stay alert and maximize any amazing interactions that come your way! The show will be over in an hour anyway, so you don’t have to stay away from your phone for too long.
4. Wait with the Fans After the Show
Riding the high of the fun show, I exited the building, but I was so confused why small crowds still gathered along the street. Later on, we figured out that they were waiting for the artists to pass by. We waited with them, and luckily, we saw Super Junior’s Eun Hyuk (who did his solo debut stage) and (G)I-DLE’s Minnie (who performed two of her solo songs). Fan cams secured!
Is Inkigayo Worth Attending?
✅ If you’re a dedicated K-pop fan, YES—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
✅ If you don’t mind spending $165 for a guaranteed slot, it’s stress-free and totally worth it.
✅ If you love live performances, you’ll appreciate the high-quality production and stage presence of idols.
Final Tips for Future Visitors:
✔️ Plan ahead and check the latest lineup before attending.
✔️ If going DIY, brush up on Korean and get a local phone number.
✔️ Join fan groups for ticketing updates and extra opportunities.
✔️ Be respectful and follow the rules—no phones, no food, and be on time.
For any K-pop fan, watching Inkigayo live is a dream come true. If I had known about this option before, I would’ve booked it on my very first trip to Korea! 🎶💜
Annyeong, yeorubun! I'm Ginyn—a freelance content creator, full-time multistan, and proud ARMY since 2017. 💜 My gateway into K-pop (and K-ent as a whole) was a Running Man episode featuring 2NE1, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Over the years, I’ve shared my Hallyu adventures in both digital and print magazines that ~romanticize~ life, as they and we should. It's the pride, creativity, and passion of idols and fandoms alike that keep me chasing the next great K-story!
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