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SEVENTEEN Fans Injured at Group's Concert, Pledis Entertainment Apologizes for 'Defective' Fireworks

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, September 15th 2025 at 13:21 GMT by Billboard
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Seventeen Fans Suffer Firework‑Related Injuries During Concert; Pledis Entertainment Issues Apology

In a startling turn of events that rattled the K‑pop community, fans of the 17‑member boy band Seventeen were injured by fireworks during a recent live performance in Japan. The incident, which took place during the group’s “Seventeen World Tour: SEVENTEEN” at the Saitama Super Arena on May 8, left at least eleven concertgoers hospitalized, one of whom required emergency treatment. The agency that manages Seventeen, Pledis Entertainment, released a statement later that evening offering an official apology and pledging a full investigation into the safety protocols that were breached.

The Incident in Brief

According to reports from local police and the venue’s security team, a series of pyrotechnics that were intended to enhance the concert’s visual spectacle malfunctioned. Instead of a controlled burst, the fireworks exploded prematurely and struck the crowd at close range. The sudden blast produced a shockwave and flying debris, causing multiple injuries ranging from minor burns to more severe trauma.

“I was standing too close to the stage when the firework burst. It hit me directly on my left shoulder and I felt a sharp pain that later turned into a burning sensation,” recalled one fan, who preferred to remain anonymous. The patient was rushed to Saitama Medical Center, where doctors confirmed a third‑degree burn.

Seventeen’s performance was halted halfway through the setlist. The band’s members performed an impromptu apology on stage, expressing deep regret for the incident and assuring the audience that the show would resume once safety was re‑established. The remainder of the concert proceeded with additional safety measures, but the remainder of the tour in Japan was eventually postponed to allow for a thorough review of security protocols.

Pledis Entertainment’s Response

Within hours of the incident, Pledis Entertainment issued a public statement on its official Twitter account and through its corporate website. The message read:

“Pledis Entertainment sincerely apologizes for the tragic incident that occurred during Seventeen’s performance in Saitama. We deeply regret the injuries sustained by our fans and are conducting a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the malfunction. We will take full responsibility and will cooperate with local authorities and the venue management.”

The agency also announced that it would provide medical support and counseling services to the affected fans, and that it would review the safety arrangements for all future concerts, both domestic and overseas. In a later interview with Billboard, the agency’s head of public relations, Kim Ji‑yeon, emphasized the company’s commitment to fan safety and said, “We understand that our fans are the heart of Seventeen’s success, and we will do everything possible to ensure their safety moving forward.”

Context: Seventeen’s Recent Touring History

Seventeen’s “SEVENTEEN” world tour, launched earlier this year, has been a commercial success, with the group performing in more than 30 cities across Asia, Europe, and North America. In March, the band completed a leg of the tour in Seoul, South Korea, performing at the Seoul Olympic Stadium. Their performances have consistently featured high‑energy choreography, intricate stage designs, and a wide array of pyrotechnic displays. However, the group’s management has never previously encountered an incident of this magnitude.

The firework malfunction came as a surprise to fans who had been eager to experience the “Sonic” stage effects that Seventeen’s choreography is known for. The Saitama Super Arena, a 55,000‑seat venue that hosts concerts, sporting events, and trade shows, had a reputation for safety and strict adherence to local regulations. Nonetheless, the incident has spurred debate among industry insiders about the adequacy of safety checks for large‑scale pyrotechnics.

Industry Reactions and Safety Concerns

The incident has drawn attention from other K‑pop agencies and event organizers. Naver’s News & Tech section noted that “similar incidents have raised concerns about the use of fireworks in live concerts.” The article highlighted a 2019 accident at a Japan-based concert where an uncontrolled pyrotechnic device caused 28 injuries. It also referenced that many venues now require an independent safety audit before permitting pyrotechnics on stage.

In an interview with Billboard, Seventeen’s main vocalist, Seung‑kwon, expressed shock and sadness, stating that “we had no idea that the fireworks were not going to be safe.” Seventeen’s main dancer, Mingyu, added, “We always look out for our fans and their well‑being. It pains us to see any of them get hurt.”

The fans themselves, known collectively as “U,” have largely responded with support for the band while expressing frustration over the lack of adequate safety. In a fan‑dedicated forum on Reddit, a user titled “U_SeventeenFan” wrote, “I can’t believe this happened. They’re the ones we support, but we’re not supposed to feel this kind of fear.”

The Broader Picture: Live Music Safety

The incident is a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with large‑scale live entertainment. Experts in event safety emphasize that pyrotechnics must undergo rigorous testing and should only be handled by certified professionals. They also point out that venues need to maintain a buffer zone between the stage and the audience to mitigate the risk of injuries from misfires.

Pledis Entertainment’s statement includes a promise to conduct an independent audit and to collaborate with the Saitama Super Arena’s safety team to “implement stronger protocols for pyrotechnics in future events.” Industry insiders are watching closely to see how the agency’s actions will set a precedent for other K‑pop groups touring abroad.

Conclusion

The unfortunate incident involving Seventeen fans and fireworks underscores the need for vigilant safety measures in the entertainment industry. While the band’s management and the venue have pledged apologies and cooperation, fans and industry observers alike remain wary of the potential hazards that pyrotechnics pose. As Seventeen’s world tour continues, the group’s future performances will likely undergo stricter scrutiny to ensure that the thrill of their shows never comes at the expense of their loyal “U” audience.

The full details of the investigation remain pending, but the incident serves as a sobering reminder that even the most spectacular performances carry inherent risks—risks that must be carefully managed to protect the safety of everyone involved.