*SF9* (Source: Leonel Salcedo, Hailey House Imnida)

Marking the start of November, Hailey House Imnida took over New York City, attending the highly anticipated “LOVE DAWN 2025 SF9 LIVE FANTASY #5” tour stop at Racket NYC. We caught up with fans after the show to hear their thoughts - and captured some stunning moments from the night. Read on for our recap of this unforgettable evening!

For myself and fellow HHI photographer Leonel Salcedo, the night began outside the venue, chatting with fans lined up early to see their favorite group. I photographed fans proudly showing off their photocards of SF9 members, and as we talked, I learned more about the group’s music and history. Although I’m still new to Kpop, I loved how eager fans were to share their knowledge - showing me favorite photoshoots, music videos, and special memories from SF9’s career. One fan even gifted us a red-and-black friendship bracelet. Mine read “Chani”, in honor of one of the members. Others handed out homemade commemorative tickets to the new friends they’d made in line.

*Fantasy* (Source: Sydney Wright, Hailey House Imnida)

Fans showed up in style, dressed beautifully in red and black, matching the tour’s bold aesthetic and SF9’s striking visuals. The overall vibe leaned grunge and rock-inspired, but each outfit reflected the diversity and creativity of SF9’s fandom, dubbed “FANTASY”. Despite the long lines and chilly weather, the mood was nothing but excitement and anticipation. When doors finally opened, the crowd buzzed with energy - longtime fans and curious newcomers alike (myself included!) ready for an unforgettable night.

“It was so much fun! I didn’t know who they were beforehand. I went ‘cause my friends got me a ticket.” - Caroline

As fans rushed into the venue, excitement filled the air. Some headed straight for the merch table, others met the new friends around them, and many waved their glowing SF9 lightsticks - gem-shaped devices that twinkled in the dark, lighting up the crowd in a soft, magical glow. At the merch booth, fans could even purchase post-show photo opportunities with the members, making the night feel extra special.

*SF9* (Source: Sydney Wright, Hailey House Imnida)

The show began with a sudden roar of cheers as SF9 burst onto the stage, opening with their hit “LOVE RACE”. The track’s high energy, driving beat, and well-practiced choreography immediately set the tone for the night. The members looked sharp in jewell-toned suits, each styled slightly differently, with formal ties and slicked-back hair. Their synchronized movements were clean, snappy, and so satisfying to watch - choreography so smooth it felt like you could slide down it.

We were taken on a journey through their discography, playing not only newly released songs, but some of the classics as well. During one point in the song, followed by a full outfit change, the members took turns singing a solo song onstage, some singing their own songs, but covering hits like Billie Eilish’s “BIRDS OF A FEATHER”, and sombr’s “back to friends”. I love hearing other genres of artists cover songs, because it’s always a surprise to see their take on it. Some like to keep it similar to the original style, others like to put a dramatic spin on it. As I stood on the balcony, I watched the security guard in the back of the balcony enjoy the show as well. I wasn’t sure if she knew SF9 or not, but especially during the covers, she was singing and dancing along with everyone else, smiling through it all.

“I loved how funny they were and how energetic they were. Fell in love with Chani” - Caroline

Beyond their polished performance, SF9’s personalities shone through as well. Throughout the set, SF9 would break for mini speeches. With help from a translator, each member took turns sharing stories and memories, and playful banter with the crowd. They were effortlessly funny and had the audience laughing along at all the right moments. One highlight was when the members began “disappearing” one by one for outfit changes - pointing the audience in a different direction, closing their eyes to count, or trying to sneak offstage undetected. The crowd loved it. I don’t think I’ve ever laughed this much at a concert.

The group expressed their love for New York, saying they’d love to live there someday and thanking FANTASY for their endless support. The audience erupted in cheers, chanting for SF9 to return soon. I can’t say when the group will return to the city, but one thing’s certain - their fans will be ready.

“It was an amazing concert, loved their energy and definitely their sense of humor with all the jokes they did. Have been a fan since 2017 so it felt like my dreams came true when I finally saw them, and hearing my favorite songs live with their amazing vocals and choreography. I would definitely love to see them again. Hoping they sing “Easy Love” next time.” - Rogina

One of my favorite songs to hear live was their song “Trauma”, a bass guitar-heavy thriller of a song. The vocals were so strong in this one, and SF9 absolutely demolished the smooth choreography. The song was groovy, and so well performed. I made some new friends during this show, and kept turning to them, yelling over the music, “THEY’RE SO GOOD AT THIS” and “I AM SUCH A FAN”, smiling the whole time. The music was groovy and so danceable. The band members were amazing performers, singing near-perfect vocals, polished dances, and the fans knew it too. During the show, I bounced from the floor level to the balcony, and both floors brought so much energy. The balcony was a special place, as there was extra room in the back and fans were able to dance. Several groups weren’t even looking at the stage, but cheering, dancing along to the music, fully present and enjoying the moment with their friends.

One of my favorite songs to hear live was “Trauma,” a bass-driven, high-energy thriller of a track. The vocals were powerful, and SF9 absolutely nailed the smooth, dynamic choreography. I was unfamiliar with the dances, so every time they fell on the floor during that song, I was surprised. Each song felt different from the previous one, taking us on a journey through sound as their BEAUTIFUL voices didn’t waver once. I made some new friends during the show and kept turning to them, yelling over the music, “THEY’RE SO GOOD AT THIS!” and “I’M SUCH A FAN!” - smiling the entire time. I didn’t even know their music, and yet here I was, dancing and clapping along to the music!

One thing SF9 did that I really appreciated in the choreography was “one after another” dances, where the group would stand in a line or triangle formation, and do one move along the line, creating a smooth rippling effect. Their timing was so well executed, it was satisfying to watch, like a line of dominoes or house of cards falling.

Both the floor and balcony were alive with the power! The balcony, especially, had this special vibe - fans with extra space in the back were dancing freely, singing, and feeling every beat with their friends. By the time the concert reached its end, you could feel the exhaustion coming from the room, the post-workout tiredness of dancing for over an hour integrated with the happiness of the night. I was really impressed with SF9 and their show!

“SF9’s show was absolutely amazing! You could really feel how much the members love performing by how they sang and danced their hearts out. I’ve been a Fantasy since debut and seeing them live again reminded me why I’ve supported them all these years. Their energy made the while night unforgettable.” - Melina

Special thanks to Studio PAV, and to fans Caroline, Melina and Rogina for your interviews!
Photos by Leonel Salcedo (@lsdivisions) and Sydney Wright (@sydneth_) on behalf of Hailey House Imnida

Written by Sydney Wright

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