Published: December 12, 2025

POP MART’s SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Exhibition Debuts in Singapore

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by The Beat Asia

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
December 12, 2025

In a raw and ethereal reflection on self-discovery, Chinese artist and the creator of viral POP MART character SKULLPANDA, Xiong Miao, seamlessly bridges the gap between fine art and pop culture at her new “SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE” immersive exhibition at the National Museum of Singapore (NMS). The showcase officially opens to the public today, Dec. 12, 2025, and will be running until Feb. 22, 2026.

Following the success of NMS’ popular “Play:Date - Unlocking Cabinets of Play” exhibition in 2024, featuring childhood classic toys, games, and large-scale installations, the museum has levelled up in collaboration with POP MART and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB).

The first-ever SKULLPANDA showcase in Singapore, CAGE-UNCAGE is taking the lead in contemporary museum programming to explore the craft and storytelling behind collectible design and culture. Being also the first SKULLPANDA exhibit outside of China, this unique collab also places Singapore on the map as an exciting and must-visit destination for both locals and inbound travelers, POP MART enthusiasts, art and culture lovers, collectors, and everybody in between.

“I'm truly excited and honored to present SKULLPANDA's work outside of China for the first time in Singapore. With its unique charm — balancing tradition with innovation, structure with creativity — it's a truly fitting venue for an exhibition that explores the tension between contrasting ideas and perspectives,” shared Miao.

This flawlessly curated exhibition takes you on an immersive journey through the limitations of self to the eye-opening joy of discovery in finding that you were holding the “key” to breaking free from these restraints all along. Handcrafted, painted, and featuring large-scale collectibles available for sale by Miao, step through larger-than-life installations that invite you to enter the world of SKULLPANDA.

POP MART’s SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Exhibition Debuts in Singapore — Photo by The Beat Asia

Not only is it a beautiful photo op, but almost every CAGE-UNCAGE artwork is also designed to be interactive. This is a particularly poignant part of the exhibition, where in the traditional art world you know to respect but not touch (with reason and for the protection of old great works!), but POP MART and Miao have done the opposite.

From a giant book detailing the life and journey of SKULLPANDA, where you flip through its pages, to scales balancing the weight of their astronaut helmet, to a giant rotating block puzzle, guests are invited to touch and play.

Just like the wave of collectibles (who do you know that doesn’t own a Labubu) that are empowering generations to heal their inner child, POP MART’s unique collaboration with such a prestigious national institution answers the demand for young people to engage with local arts and culture initiatives and brings a new crowd to the museum.

And this is more than just a fad, as SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE presents art in its true form, an answer to the current times, conveying a powerful message to those who often feel voiceless in a tumultuous world.

As you step onto the front lawn of the NMS, you will encounter a giant SKULLPANDA sculpture reminiscent of Greek and Roman statues guarding temples of their time. Immaculately detailed, front and back, with beautiful lace and cosmic motifs, you are intrigued by the eerie sculpture and excited to explore more. This is not your usual toy/collectibles exhibition.

As you enter the Neo-Palladian building, you notice how its pristine white walls blend seamlessly with the muted and frosty tones of SKULLPANDA’s cosmic world. You are greeted by the beautiful arched ceiling of its rotunda, featuring six unique paintings in each arch depicting the six themes you will travel through in the exhibition: Emotion, Direction, Fortune, Rules, Life, and Exploration, each reminiscent of your personal life journey.

CAGE-UNCAGE spans two floors, and upon entering NMS' Stamford Gallery (Level 1), you encounter “The Key,” as you peek through a keyhole mirroring the motif.

You then step into a room, beginning your journey with SKULLPANDA, starting with the theme “Emotion,” projecting the key and keyhole onto the floor and depicting limited-edition SKULLPANDA pieces — some available for sale! This includes a miniature model of the sculpture on NMS’ lawn.

You then step into the next room with “Direction,” where you will encounter a gigantic book of life, filled with transparent hand-painted pages that line up to portray a portrait of SKULLPANDA. You can flip between these pages, symbolizing how you have the power to navigate through your own life. A video display featuring a unique motion graphics art video by Miao is also in the same room. It’s hard to look away as her hand-painted style moves between her signature butterfly motif, birds, and the key and keyhole of CAGE-UNCAGE.

Next, you move to “Fortune,” a frosty room with a crystalline-lined mirror floor reflecting an overhead chandelier and SKULLPANDA frozen in a glass cabinet, two corners cracked and showing the character in a huddled position.

Then, you move through “Rules” and “Life” before re-entering NMS’ grand lobby and heading to the museum’s basement.

The descent may feel regressive, as if you are falling into further emotional darkness, as SKULLPANDA does hold a dark and mysterious aura. When you enter the museum's expansive Gallery Theatre (Basement Level), a feeling of hope and openness creeps through the cage and key motifs. Now, it’s time for “Exploration.”

You then reach the pièce de resistance, “The Room,” and here is where you meet two godly SKULLPANDA sculptures that really make you feel like the smallest atom in the universe. Each celestial statue wears a collar with a keyhole whilst extending a hand holding a key to you, the viewer. The room is lined with mirrors infinitely reflecting yourself, SKULLPANDA, and the indisputable truth that you were holding the key to your freedom all along.

You won’t want to leave the room, but the promise of limited-edition Singapore-exclusive merch will draw you to move along.

First, you’ll come across an enchanting co-curated Singapore installation which pays homage to the nostalgic national hobby of bird singing. Beautiful birdcages house miniatures of the CAGE-UNCAGE installations, and a video artwork created by Miao takes you on a journey with SKULLPANDA through Singapore’s historic landmarks guided by birds and butterflies.

Lastly, guests will have the opportunity to browse and bring home a limited-edition SKULLPANDA Plush Cage-Uncage Doll, The Compass of Light figurine, and other showcase-exclusive merchandise. After such a long emotional journey, you will likely feel the urge to take home a souvenir and a reminder that you alone have the key to uncage your personal limitations.

POP MART’s SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Exhibition Showcase-exclusive merchandise — Showcase-exclusive merchandise | Courtesy of POP MART

“SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE” officially opens to the public at the National Museum of Singapore on Dec. 12, 2025, and will be exhibiting until Feb. 22, 2026. An exclusive SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Singapore gift will be given to the first 4,500 visitors to the showcase, so make sure to book your time slot in advance and opt for an Early All Access Ticket to be one of the first to experience this special exhibition!

Early All Access Tickets from Dec. 12 to 16, 2025, are priced at S$40 for tourist adults, S$32 for tourist concession, and S$22 for locals. Standard All Access Tickets from Dec. 17, 2025 until Feb. 22, 2026 are priced at S$36 for tourist adults, S$28 tourist concession, and S$14 for locals. Tickets can be purchased via the NMS website or Trip.com.

Tickets also include entry to the National Museum’s current exhibitions, “Once Upon a Tide: Singapore's Journey from Settlement to Global City” and “Singapore Odyssea: A Journey Through Time.”

Follow and stay up to date with POP MART’s latest happenings by following them on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Plan your visit to SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE by checking out the National Museum of Singapore’s Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, and the Singapore Tourism Board on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897

Dates: Dec. 12, 2025 to Feb. 22, 2026

Opening Hours: Daily, from 10 AM to 7 PM

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Asia/ Vibe/ Artists

Published: October 17, 2025

Sammy Virji’s 1st Asia Tour Brings UK Garage Heat & Basslines to 6 Cities

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Sammy Virji/ Instagram

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
October 17, 2025

Even if you’re unfamiliar with UK garage (UKG), an electronic dance music genre originated in England in the 1990s, you will without a doubt be moved by a Sammy Virji set.

It’s the bounce, the bass, and the cheeky grin behind the decks that will move even a non-dancer. And towards the end of the year, the British DJ and producer is bringing that unmistakable energy to Asia for the first time, with a multi-city tour that’s already sending shockwaves through the region’s underground music scene.

Official poster of Sammy Virji's Asia tour — Instagram/ Sammy Virji

The tour kicks off November 28 in Kuala Lumpur and continues through Singapore, Tokyo, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Bali, and Jakarta, making it one of the most expansive debuts by a UKG artist in Asia to date.

Notably, two of the stops will happen within two of Asia’s electronic music events: 808 Festival in Bangkok and Djakarta Warehouse Project in Jakarta, bringing his signature sound to massive, diverse crowds.

Virji’s rise has been meteoric. From sold-out shows across Europe and North America to commanding major stages at Boiler Room, Coachella, Glastonbury, and Tomorrowland, he’s become a defining voice in the new wave of UK electronic music. His sets are known for their technical precision and emotional punch, weaving garage, house, grime, and bassline into a sound that’s uniquely his.

Sammy Virji in a previous show — Instagram/ Sammy Virji

Adding fuel to the fire is his latest album, "Same Day Cleaning," released in September 2025. The project features collaborations with heavyweights like Skepta, Flowdan, Giggs, and Chris Lake.

Tracks like “Cops & Robbers” and “If U Need It” have already become club staples, with the former breaking into the UK Dance Top 10 and the latter earning Gold certification. The album showcases Virji’s ability to evolve UKG without losing its soul, layering vocal grit, melodic hooks, and dancefloor heat into a package that feels both familiar and fresh.

Sammy Virji in his previous shows with other artists — Instagram/ Sammy Virji

For fans across Asia, this tour is a cultural moment. UK garage, once confined to London’s pirate radio stations and sweaty basement clubs, will be echoing through the streets of Tokyo, the rooftops of Kuala Lumpur, and more like a bridge built between scenes, generations, and cities.

To stay in the loop and receive updates on ticket drops and exclusive content, sign up via the Asia tour’s official website. For festival dates, fans can purchase passes directly through the websites of 808 Festival and Djakarta Warehouse Project.

For updates, follow Sammy Virji on Instagram and Facebook, and listen to his tracks on Apple Music and Spotify.

Sammy Virji’s Asia Tour 2025 in Kuala Lumpur Rex KL Fri, November 28
7:00 PM onwards Experience Sammy Virji’s Asia Tour 2025 live in Kuala Lumpur on Nov. 28, 2025, at Rex KL. Tickets from RM250.

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Asia/ The List/ Nightlife

Published: September 29, 2025

ONE OK ROCK Set to Ignite Asia with Massive Tour in 2026

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by ONE OK ROCK/Website

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
September 29, 2025

Calling all rock music fans! Japanese rock band ONE OK ROCK is bringing their highly anticipated DETOX Tour to Asia next year!

Following their explosive North American tour earlier this year, a summer of sold-out stadium and dome concerts across Japan, and a run of shows in Europe this fall, “The Beginning” singers are returning to Asia in 2026 for the DETOX ASIA TOUR, which will feature music from their album of the same name, released last February.

The first wave of dates was announced last Sept. 26, 2025 across their media channels with the caption: “It's finally here guys!! We're coming to Asia early next year, who's excited for this?!” with the promise of more stops to be revealed soon.

DETOX Tour — Photo from Instagram/ONE OK ROCK

This massive tour kicks off in Bangkok on Feb. 21, 2026, and spans major cities including Seoul, Hong Kong, Manila, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Here is the complete list of cities they’ll be playing at early next year:

ONE OK ROCK DETOX Asia Tour 2026 Dates:

Bangkok, Thailand (Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani): Feb. 21
Seoul, South Korea (Jamsil Arena): Feb. 27 and 28
Manila, Philippines (SM Mall of Asia Arena): Mar. 4
Singapore (Singapore Indoor Stadium): Mar. 8
Taipei, Taiwan (Taipei Dome): Apr. 25
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Axiata Arena): Apr. 29
Hong Kong, China (Central Harbourfront Event Space): May 2 and 3
Shanghai, China (Shanghai Hongkou Football Stadium): May 9
Jakarta, Indonesia (Beach City International Stadium): May 16

ONE OK ROCK was formed in 2025 and is composed of Taka Moriuchi (Vocals), Toru Yamashita (Guitar), Ryota Kohama (Bass), and Tomoya Kanki (Drums). They are known for blending various musical styles from alternative rock, emo, and post-hardcore. Their popularity and success led to a worldwide record deal, which allowed the band to perform at venues and festivals around the world, making them one of Japan’s most successful global rock acts.

Some of their popular hit include “Wherever You Are.” “The Beginning,” and “Renegades” — the theme song for “Rurouni Kenshin: The Final” live-action movie, and co-written by British hitmaker Ed Sheeran. Last year, they launched their largest world tour to date, which featured eight shows in seven cities, gathering nearly 190,00 fans.

For tickets and updates on additional tour dates, visit their website or follow ONE OK ROCK on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram.

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Asia/ Vibe/ Artists

Published: August 29, 2025

Tyla is Bringing the Heat to Asia: “We Wanna Party” Tour Lands in 5 Cities

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Instagram/ Tyla

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
August 29, 2025

If you’ve been vibing to Tyla’s infectious beats and vocals, get ready to experience the magic live — because the Grammy-winning South African star is officially heading to Asia with her “We Wanna Party” Tour. This run kicks off this November and will light up five major cities across the region, promising unforgettable nights of rhythm, fashion, and fierce performance.

The tour begins in Tokyo on Nov. 11, 2025, followed by stops in Bangkok (Nov. 14), Hong Kong (Nov. 23), Manila (Dec. 3), and wraps up in Singapore on Dec. 4. Fans can expect a high-energy setlist featuring hits from her debut album “TYLA” and her latest mixtape “We Wanna Party,” including crowd favorites like “Water,” “Truth or Dare,” and “Push 2 Start.”

Tyla is a global fashion darling — Instagram/ Tyla

Tickets are either generating anticipation or selling fast. For the Bangkok show at IMPACT Challenger Hall 3, artist presale ran earlier in August 2025, with public sales opening Sept. 17 via megatix. For Hong Kong, no further ticketing details about the show at AsisWorld-Expo Hall 10 have been announced since the pre-sale but fans can sign up for information on the tour’s official website.

Singapore’s Arena @ EXPO show released tickets via ticketmaster and tickets to Tokyo’s edition at Ariake Arena can be purchased via creativeman. Manila fans can secure their seats at the SM Mall of Asia Arena via SM TICKETS.

Tyla’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. After winning the first-ever Grammy for Best African Music Performance with “Water,” she’s become a global fashion darling and a Gen Z icon. Her previous tour sold out across continents, and this second leg promises to be even more immersive, blending dance, fashion, and raw vocal power.

Tyla in her previous performance — Instagram/ Tyla

Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering her sound, this tour is your chance to catch one of music’s most exciting new voices in her prime. So mark your calendars based on your location and get ready to party in Tyla style.

Don’t forget to follow Tyla on Instagram, Facebook, and X for everything about her, and be sure to listen to her music on Spotify whenever you get to.

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Asia/ The List/ Nightlife

Published: August 11, 2025

Here’s How You Can Win a Trip to See Westlife Live in London

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by NYOU Consultancy

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
August 11, 2025

Irish pop sensation Westlife is set to light up London’s Royal Albert Hall this October, and they want you to be part of it!

To celebrate 25 years of music, memories, and unforgettable moments, the band is giving fans in Asia the chance of a lifetime to join them for their 25th Anniversary Concert slated for Oct. 27 and 28, through an exclusive fan campaign, offering two lucky fans an all-expenses-paid trip to London, including round-trip flights, hotel accommodations, exclusive Westlife merchandise, and tickets!

"Asia has always held a special place in our hearts," said Westlife in an official press statement. “This is our way of saying thank you for the love you’ve shown us over the years, and we’d love to see you in London.”

The campaign is open to fans in Asia and will run until Sept. 30, 2025. To join, simply sign up here with your name, email, and contact number. Winners will be contacted via email on Oct. 3.

Westlife’s connection with Asia runs deep — from karaoke nights and road trip sing-alongs to songs that make it to your daily playlists on Spotify, their music has become part of everyday life across the region. With countless hits like “My Love,” "I Lay My Love on You," and “If I Let You Go,” and sold-out concerts in arenas across the globe, Westlife has cemented themselves as a defining force in pop music.

The band recently went on a tour across the region for their “Wild Dreams Tour” in 2023, where they played in Hong Kong, Singapore, Manila, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Kaohsiung, and several cities in Indonesia. This campaign is a tribute to the fans who’ve been with them through it all in the past two decades.

For updates, stay tuned to Westlife’s official Facebook , X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram pages.

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Asia/ The List/ Nightlife

Published: August 04, 2025

Hong Kong Singer Jackson Wang Set to Hold Shows in Asia for 2025 World Tour

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Jackson Wang/X (Formerly Twitter)

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
August 04, 2025

Hong Kong-born singer-songwriter Jackson Wang is taking over cities in Asia this October and November with a brand new world tour!

The artist announced his “MAGICMAN 2 World Tour” yesterday on his social media accounts, revealing six stops across Asia.

“This isn’t just a concert. This is an experience. I want to bring you into my world. Right into the heart of the story — no filters, no masks. Like a movie playing out in front of your eyes. We dive in together. This is MAGICMAN 2. Welcome to the journey,” Jackson wrote on his post.

The tour will feature his latest album, “MAGICMAN 2”, which he released last July 18. The 11-track album debuted at No. 13 on the Billboard 200 albums chart, making it the highest debut by a Chinese artist on the chart.

The upcoming tour will kick off with a two-day concert in Bangkok on Oct. 3 and 4, which will be followed by Macau (Oct. 11 and 12), Jakarta (Oct. 18), Kuala Lumpur (Oct. 25), Manila (Nov. 2), and Tokyo (Nov. 6). Ticket details and specific venues will be announced at a later date, including additional shows for 2026.

Additionally, Jackson also announced the MAGICMAN 2 Box Set (Global edition) merchandise, which will include personal journals, a special edition zine, 5 mini posters representing each album chapter, 2 posters of exclusive BTS, 3 photocards, and the "MAGICMAN 2" CD. The set will be available on Aug. 11. You can pre-order here.

Posters — Photo from X (Formerly Twitter)/Jackson Wang

Jackson Wang began as a competitive fencer before making the shift to music and entertainment. He is popularly known as a member of the K-Pop boy group GOT7, who recently made their comeback earlier this year. He made his solo debut in 2017, when he founded his music label, Team Wang, and even served as the creative director for its subsidiary fashion brand, Team Wang Design.

He released his first solo album, “Mirrors,” in 2019 and his sophomore album, “MAGIC MAN,” in 2022, which peaked at No. 15 on the US Billboard 200 chart. Jackson also boasts a huge fan base on various platforms and is currently the most followed Chinese artist on Instagram.

For updates on this upcoming tour, follow Jackson Wang on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok.

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Asia/ The List/ What's On

Published: July 28, 2025

ASEAN Film Festival 2025 to Spotlight Regional Stories and Global Links

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by ASEAN Film Festival

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
July 28, 2025

Now in its third year, the ASEAN Film Festival(AFF 2025) will be launching this August with over 20 acclaimed films from various countries in the region and beyond!

Organized by the Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation, the ASEAN Film Festival is a nonprofit initiative to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of culture through the art of storytelling through films. This year, the festival aims to broaden cultural horizons by showcasing works from four Belt and Road countries, namely Egypt, Hungary, Kazakhstan, and Turkey.

Additionally, the filmmakers and directors from around ten highlighted films will take part in special sharing sessions with local youth and ASEAN students in Hong Kong, enriching the viewing experience and enhancing their understanding of different countries.

Running from Aug. 7 to 31, AFF 2025 will feature a selection of films that will provide Hong Kong audiences with a mix of genres, from heartwarming comedies, thrilling mysteries, and inspiring dramas. The festival aims to encourage the younger generation to appreciate the rich and diverse cinematic works from ASEAN and Belt and Road countries, as well as explore and understand the cultural heritage of these nations.

Delegates — From left: Nicholas Ho Lik-Chi, Commissioner for Belt and Road of the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau of the HKSAR Government; Ammala Saenchonghack, Consul-General of Laos in Hong Kong; Ong Siew Gay, Consul-General of Singapore in Hong Kong; Le Duc Hanh, Consul-General of Vietnam in Hong Kong; Ranida Chamchalerm, Acting Consul-General of Thailand in Hong Kong; Nur'Amirah Mohamad, Acting Consul-General of Malaysia in Hong Kong; Romulo Victor M. Israel Jr., Consul-General of the Philippines in Hong Kong; Kerim Sercan Evcin, Consul-General of Türkiye in Hong Kong; Charles Chia, CEO of Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation | Photo from ASEAN Film Festival

“Films serve as a cultural medium that transcends geographical boundaries, conveying diverse stories with a shared emotional bond. This year, we are truly honored to continue presenting exciting films from the ten ASEAN countries to our audiences in Hong Kong, and for the first time, to feature works from four Belt and Road countries. Their participation enriches the festival, sparking new exchanges and creative connections across borders. This further highlights Hong Kong’s unique charm as a cultural hub, and reinforces the city’s vital role as a ‘super connector’ and ‘super value-adder’ between Mainland China and the international community,” said Daryl Ng, Chairman of Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation.

AFF 2025 will be offering a month of free screenings at multiple venues across Hong Kong, along with post-screening discussions featuring filmmakers. Some of these sessions will also include local film industry professionals, in collaboration with the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, to encourage meaningful cross-regional dialogue and creative exchange.

Among this year’s lineup are award-winning blockbusters such as “Ah Boys to Men 3: Frogmen” (Singapore), which set a record for Singapore’s opening week box office, and the 4K restored version of Thailand’s classic hit “My Girl.” Audiences can all look forward to emotional features like "Falling in Love Like in Movies” (Indonesia), “Nuansang: The Heart of Teacher” (Laos), and “If My Lover Were a Flower”(Myanmar).

Movie clip — Falling in Love Like in Movies | Photo from ASEAN Film Festival

Horse — Champion | Photo from ASEAN Film Festival

The festival also highlights the autobiographical film, “Champion” (Turkey), which is an epic tale of love, sacrifice, betrayal, and redemption, “Samsara” (Indonesia), and ‘Tomiris’ (Kazakhstan), which tells a story about female leadership and courage.

AFF 2025 will also be featuring two cross-country collaborations: “Out of the Nest” (Thailand and China) and “Our Blossom” (Hungary and Vietnam), which showcase the creative synergy between regions, celebrating the universal language of film.

You can now register for free entry tickets, available on a first-come, first-served basis on the website. You can also view the full details of the featured films and screening schedules here.

AFF 2025 is a collaborative endeavor involving the Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation, the Consulates -General of the 14 countries in Hong Kong, and various partners across multiple sectors. Co-presenters include the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, M+ and Asia Society Hong Kong Center. Supporting organizations comprise the Belt and Road Office of the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, the Financial Services Development Council, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, InvestHK, Our Hong Kong Foundation, and various chambers and associations

For updates, follow the Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

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Asia/ The List/ Nightlife

Published: July 11, 2025

Last Updated: July 18, 2025

Sprite Beach Fest Was the Ultimate Summer Party You Shouldn't Have Missed

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Sprite

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
July 11, 2025

Last Updated:
July 18, 2025

There are music festivals, and then there’s Sprite Beach Fest — a free, open-to-all, beachfront mega-party that pulled in an estimated crowd of 70,000 and left zero doubts about Coca-Cola knowing exactly what the Gen Zs need. Held in one of Vietnam’s rising destinations, Da Nang, Sprite Beach Fest was more than just a summer celebration — a promise from Sprite that they are glad to deliver every year. The type of celebration that leaves your skin tanned just right after enjoying the beach, your throat sore from singing, your camera roll blessed with endless videos of your favorite artists, and your shoes full of sand. In other words, an unforgettable experience.

First off, the lineup was stacked with Vietnam’s hottest artists, and the event venue had to match that. They chose My Khe Beach, and the vibes were immaculate.

Water cannons blasted over thousands of screaming fans during the initial DJ sets. But this wasn’t just some influencer bait or brand marketing overdrive. Sprite Beach Fest had real substance because that crowd? You can’t fake that energy, no matter how many cute activities, free products, or interactive installations you wave at them.

Courtesy of Sprite

Vietnam was the perfect crowd. Respectful, hyped, and straight-up energetic.

People came from all over the country and began lining up the night before. By the time the show was about to start, the energy was so electric that it was literally spilling onto the sidewalks. Yet, no chaos, no pushing, no bad energy — just people sharing in each other’s joy and infecting each other with happiness. It was the kind of space where you could scream your lungs out and still feel like you were in a safe, welcoming space. Fortunately, even as the crowd eventually had the local authorities rerouting traffic due to their sheer volume, everything still went off without a hitch.

Coca-Cola’s decision to host festivals and events like Sprite Beach Fest isn’t just clever marketing — it’s a genuine read of what youth culture in Asia is craving right now. And they’re ready to deliver on the high-energy, music-forward, community-centric gatherings that favor authenticity over aesthetic and vibes over manufacturing viral moments.

Courtesy of Sprite

The Beat Asia witnessed these gatherings first-hand.

From last year’s Coke Studio Fandom Concert in Manila to the Sprite Beach Fest in Da Nang, here’s why Coca-Cola events are about more than just chilled drinks- and why you should be at the next one.

Taking Summer to a Whole New Level

Courtesy of Sprite

Sprite Beach Fest was every bit as loud as possible — and it was just what we needed to cap off the week. Da Nang, while an overall chill city, was ready for a different kind of chill: one that matched the summer heat, local vibe, and beats that you can’t ignore.

Sprite set up a giant 20-foot inflatable slide that had people landing in a pool of plastic balls, “soda dispenser” showers, a slip-and-slide and see-saw, and a temperature display that said out loud what everybody was feeling: it was hot alright. Thankfully, Sprite also set up a drinks booth to keep the crowd cool as the energy grew hotter.

Courtesy of Sprite

Then there was the stage. It’s like pairing Waterbomb Festival’s aquatic chaos with the aesthetic and effects of Rolling Loud.

We’re talking water cannons, pyrotechnics, massive LED screens (aside from the main stage, they also made sure the crowd was well served by placing standalone LED screens in other parts of the venue), and giant speakers that made sure you could hear every note from the artists. Sprite Beach Fest’s organizers weren’t playing safe — clearly, go big or go home was Sprite’s directive. And they succeeded.

Courtesy of Sprite

Artists Brought the Heat and Immense Coolness

Sprite Beach Fest’s lineup was curated to bring the hottest Vietnamese artists all on one stage, engineered to ignite a crowd that was eager to match their spirit. Each artist brought their signature style and character, matched perfectly with Sprite’s effortlessly cool branding, and conversed with the crowd through their songs.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or hearing these acts for the first time, everyone was easily swept up in the vibrant energy of the beach fest.

HURRYKNG was the spark that set Sprite Beach Fest on fire. His energy hit just like the first carbonated sip of a freshly opened can of Sprite. He burst onto the stage with a charisma that needed no translation, launching straight into hits like "Một Công Đôi Việc," "Chưa Phải Là Yêu," and "AIRPLANE MODE."

The crowd immediately locked in and took part in this masterclass in hype-building. HURRYKNG delivered an opening act that raised the bar high — fortunately, however, the rest of the lineup was ready to meet him there.

Courtesy of Sprite

Next came JSOL, whose stage presence seemed like lightning in a bottle. His set didn’t just entertain, it electrified the audience. Songs like "LOVE SAND" and "NGÁO NGƠ" kept everyone’s energy up as he turned the heat to an 11 on a scale of 10. The confidence, swagger, and vocals hit hard — JSOL made sure his time was something the crowd will remember.

Then came LOW G, stepping in like the calm before a storm. But make no mistake, he didn’t dial down the energy — he just brought a refined version that had the crowd nodding to every beat. His laid-back presence gave way to explosive moments in "An Thần," "Simp Gái 808 (Maiki Remix)," and "HOP ON DA SHOW." The beats were unrelenting but controlled, and the crowd fed off his chill intensity. Sprite is chill, but LOW G is cooler.

Courtesy of Sprite

When RHYDER took the stage, things escalated fast. It wasn’t just a performance; it was another lesson in crowd participation. He commanded the crowd with ease, and the audience was eager to respond. Whether waving their foam sticks or chanting after RHYDER, there was an instant connection between him and his fans that you can’t script.

But if the night needed a finale to match its fever pitch, Duơng Domic more than delivered. His set was truly unforgettable. Every hit, from "A đến Ă" to "Yêu Em 2 Ngày" and "Mất Kết Nối," felt like it was made for a moment like this. It didn’t matter if you knew the lyrics or not. The crowd became one — vibing, jumping, waving, and singing like there’s no tomorrow. You could almost feel everyone taking a mental snapshot to keep this moment locked in their minds forever.

Courtesy of Sprite

What Makes Sprite Beach Fest Hit Different?

To understand the soul of Sprite Beach Fest, The Beat Asia spoke to the man in charge. Tin Le, Coca-Cola’s Head of Marketing Vietnam and Cambodia, offered insight into why Sprite doesn’t just host events, they create cultural experiences.

“Vietnam is a country with very long coastlines, so every year, as a summer promise, we want to bring the Sprite activations throughout the country along these areas,” he explained.

“This has been a promise we have kept for the consumers for three years now, that we celebrate one of the biggest summer occasions on the beach with our consumers in Da Nang.”

For Coca-Cola, Sprite isn’t just a drink; it’s a rallying cry. “Heat Happens, Stay Cool” isn’t just about the temperature. It’s about attitude. “It’s about encouraging people to come out and play. Don’t let the heat block the way…or heated moments bring you down,” he shared. That ethos — pushing past obstacles with high spirits — is something that Sprite stands for.

Courtesy of Sprite

“So if you want to do something, go ahead and do it. If you want to have fun in the summer heat, or if you like your spicy food, go ahead and enjoy it. Sprite will accompany [you through] all that.”

Music, naturally, fits that message. “Music is the biggest passion point of [the] Vietnamese [people]. But not just the Vietnamese, ASP (Asia-Pacific) consumers and the global consumers as well,” Tin said.

And it’s not just any music. “If you go through the whole lineup of all the [artists] we have chosen for our concerts, they're all cool singers reflecting [the spirit of our consumers].”

He added, “The Gen Z consumers, they like to stay cool against whatever challenges are thrown at them. That very positive attitude against all kinds of heated moments…that is something that makes our music connect with them.”

Courtesy of Sprite

Why You Should Attend the Next Coca-Cola Event

Sprite Beach Fest is just one of Coca-Cola’s many events around the globe, following an evolving blueprint for brand-led entertainment that doesn’t feel like a giant advertisement (despite the huge installations screaming their brand). The plan is simple.

Be where the people are. Celebrate what they care about. Don’t interrupt culture; contribute to it.

Coca-Cola has been testing this across Asia, and the results speak volumes.

In the Philippines, the Coke Studio: Ultimate Fandom Concert last 2024 turned heads, broke hearts (in a good way), and also lit up the SM Mall of Asia Arena. With a diverse lineup that included NewJeans, ALAMAT, Kyle Echarri, Illest Morena, and Nik Makino, the event tapped into K-Pop stans, P-Pop loyalists, and all-around music lovers who wanted to partake in a night to remember. And Coke gave it to them.

But Sprite Beach Fest isn’t the end. For one, Coke Studio Season 9 is coming soon on Sept. 5, 2025! No details yet on the lineup, but their Instagram post suggests following Coca-Cola's official partners (Jollibee, 7-Eleven, Grab, and Lazada) to find out how you can grab tickets to one of the hottest music festivals in the Philippines.

Following Coke Studio is another major festival in Japan, Coca-Cola X Fes. 2025, which is scheduled for Oct. 11 to 12, 2025 at the Saitama Super Arena, Japan. The lineup, needless to say, is a dream: XG, Creepy Nuts, &TEAM, Camilo, ano, and Natori were recently confirmed to join the festival. Check out their website to find out how to win exclusive Coca-Cola merchandise or tickets to Coca-Cola X Fes. 2025.

It’s clear, though, that Coca-Cola isn’t just reacting to youth culture; they’re helping to shape it.

Given that “Coke” is reportedly the 2nd most recognized word in the world, just behind “okay,” it’s no wonder that they’re in tune with pop culture — even with every new generation being born. Whether it’s on a Vietnamese beach, Manila arena, or Japanese stadium, their activations are less about visibility and more about credibility.

Have you ever wondered why Red Bull hosts so many extreme sports events worldwide? This is why.

Sprite Beach Fest proves that the future of brand engagement isn’t about gimmicks. It’s about genuine connection. And Coca-Cola, in all its fizzy, carbonated genius, seems to have cracked the code. For us, though, we still haven’t moved on from the Da Nang fest, which is another way of saying, we will block off our calendars the moment they announce the next Coke happening — and we’ll be there again, ready to sing our lungs out.

Check out their website for more information. Follow Sprite on Instagram and Coca-Cola on Instagram.

Courtesy of Sprite

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Asia/ Venture/ Profiles

Published: July 10, 2025

‘The Diary Of A CEO’ Host Steven Bartlett Set to Kick Off Asia Tour

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by The Foundry Asia

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
July 10, 2025

Steven Bartlett, host of the world’s second-largest host-led podcast, is coming to Asia for an exclusive event focusing on entrepreneurship and personal growth.

If you’re an avid podcast listener, chances are you’ve heard of “The Diary Of A CEO,” a podcast series featuring in-depth conversations with influential figures across various fields and industries. Host Steven Bartlett has much to share from his vast interview archive, and his own experiences too, having carved his name in the industry as a successful young entrepreneur with a remarkable trajectory that has redefined success in the modern business ecosystem.

In a rare opportunity to learn directly from one of today’s most influential voices, The Business and Life Speaking Tour is coming to Asia for the first time, spanning across five cities in the region.

Presented by Curious Asia and in partnership with Shopify, don’t miss this spectacular event that aims to present powerful insights and inspiring stories, as well as provide you with the essential tools to navigate entrepreneurship in today’s business ecosystem.

The tour kicks off on Sept. 19, 2025 in Singapore and will conclude in Jakarta on the 27th. You can catch Steven in the following cities:

The Business and Life Speaking Asia Tour 2025

Singapore - Sept. 19

8 PM, Star Theatre

Prices start from SG$98

Kuala Lumpur - Sept. 21

6 PM, Connexion Hall

Prices start from RM280

Hong Kong - Sept. 23

8 PM, AsiaWorld-Expo

Prices start from HK$480

Bali - Sept. 26

8 PM, The Westin Nusa, Bali

Prices start from IDR 990,000

Jakarta - Sept. 27

6 PM, The Kasablanka

Prices start from IDR 790,000

Steven Bartlett The Business and Life Speaking Tour

This highly anticipated keynote tour will explore crucial themes in the industry, including essential principles for success in both business and life.

If you’re an ambitious entrepreneur looking for practical advice and inspiration, a professional or business leader seeking career advancement, or perhaps simply curious about achieving personal growth and success, attending this event guarantees that attendees will leave feeling equipped with various transformative insights—specifically on the following topics:

Transforming Your Mindset: Overcome self-doubt, take calculated risks, and flourish in uncertainty.
Driving Entrepreneurship & Innovation: Navigate the modern business landscape and build scalable, sustainable ventures.
Engaging in Authentic Leadership: Cultivate leadership qualities that resonate with your core values.
Achieving Personal Growth & Empowerment: Commit to continuous learning and self-awareness for lasting success.

Each show will center around a specific keynote speech, so if you’re looking for a more personalized experience, there are VIP packages available offering exclusive meet-and-greets with Steven, signed posters, and other merchandise.

Tickets can be purchased here. Priority access sales will commence on July 16, 12 PM (SGT/ HKT/ MYT/WITA) and 4 AM (WIB), while General ticket sales will start from July 17, 12 PM (SGT/ HKT/ MYT/WITA) and 11 AM (WIB).

You can register ahead for the pre-sale on the following times:

July 10, 12 PM to July 14, 12 PM (SGT, HKT, MYT, WITA)
July 10, 11 AM to July 14, 11 AM (WIB)

*For more information on student and corporate rates, contact marketing@creationcollective.asia.

Steven iheart podcast awards — Instagram/ The Diary Of A CEO

Steven Bartlett began his entrepreneurial journey in 2013 when he founded Wallpark, a messaging board for students.

He then co-founded Social Chain in 2014 when he was just 22, which quickly revolutionized the digital marketing industry. The global social media marketing agency has since worked with major brands such as Apple, KFC, and McDonald’s, catapulting Steven to millionaire status by age 23.

He’s the host of one of the world’s leading podcasts, which has amassed over 40 million downloads and 1 billion streams. It has also reached 11 million YouTube subscribers as of July 2025, featuring some of the most influential people today, including Sir Richard Branson, Michelle Obama, Simon Cowell, Mo Gawdat, MrBeast, and more.

Follow Steven Bartlett on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram for more updates.

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LIST: All The Must-See Concerts in Asia This 2026 and Where to Get Tickets

Hong Kong

BLACKPINK World Tour 'DEADLINE'

ONE REPUBLIC 'From Asia, With Love' 2026

Calum Scott The Avenoir Tour 2026

Manila

The Lumineers: The Automatic Tour 2026

My Chemical Romance Southeast Asia 2026 Tour

Karpos Live Presents: Pixies

Bangkok

Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Thailand 2026

SMTOWN LIVE 2025-26

KRAFTWERK 'MULTIMEDIA TOUR 2026'

Singapore

SUPER JUNIOR 20th Anniversary TOUR 'SUPER SHOW 10'

Josh Groban: GEMS World Tour

ONE OK ROCK DETOX Asia Tour 2026

Macau

2026 Dylan Wang D. Party Concert

Raymond Lam 'Go With The Flow LF'

2025–26 aespa LIVE TOUR 'SYNK: aeXIS LINE'

Kuala Lumpur

2026 Accusefive 'Run, Run, Run!' Live Tour the World

Men I Trust – Equus Asia Tour 2026

IVE WORLD TOUR 'SHOW WHAT I AM'

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