Inside BOYNEXTDOOR’s Bags as They Get Ready for Their First North American Tour

Emerging as a self-driven force in K-pop since their 2023 debut, BOYNEXTDOOR has steadily expanded their musical footprint with a hands-on approach to production and lyrics that resonate with the complexities of youth. The six-member ensemble, comprising Sungho, Riwoo, Jaehyun, Taesan, Leehan, and Woonhak, balances musical depth with approachable personalities, cultivating a dedicated fanbase known as ONEDOORs.

Following the launch of their second headlining tour in July, the group is now venturing into new territory by bringing their KNOCK ON Vol. 2 Tour across North America. The tour commenced on October 30 in Texas and includes multiple stops across major cities such as Florida, Illinois, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Mexico City. This leg follows their landmark performance at last year’s Lollapalooza festival, which marked their introduction to a broader international audience.

In preparation for this significant milestone, the members gathered in Seoul to discuss their evolving artistry, tour expectations, and personal essentials they carry on the road. Reflecting on the past two years, the group emphasized their growth not only in musical complexity but also in connecting more intimately with audiences. They highlighted how interactions with fans have become a vital source of inspiration, strengthening their performances and creative process.

The North American tour represents a first for BOYNEXTDOOR, and the members expressed enthusiasm about engaging with fans across diverse cities. Leehan and Taesan noted the excitement of revisiting the vibrant energy they experienced at Lollapalooza and channeling that into new material like their single "Animal," which draws directly from the spirited atmosphere of American audiences.

Each member brought unique perspectives on the cities they look forward to visiting. Leehan is particularly intrigued by Texas’s cultural heritage, associating it with iconic cowboy imagery and the possibility of encountering horses roaming urban spaces. Riwoo expressed anticipation for New York, motivated by personal interests, while Woonhak and others looked forward to exploring musical roots in different regions, including East and West Coast hip-hop scenes.

Beyond performance, the group shared insights into their personal routines and the items they rely on when touring. From Sungho’s comprehensive care kit addressing skin and health needs to Jaehyun’s preference for wired earphones to avoid losing wireless buds, these details paint a picture of artists balancing the demands of rigorous touring with personal comfort. The members also exchange practical tips among themselves, such as sharing preferred bags and toiletry pouches to streamline their travel.

Musically, the tour’s setlist was carefully curated, with some songs like "Upside Down" omitted despite the members’ fondness due to setlist constraints. However, "Animal" emerged as a performance favorite, designed with live shows in mind to foster a dynamic connection with the crowd. The group also discussed how working on music during downtime on tour is facilitated by portable production gear, allowing them to continue creating even while traveling.

Food and local experiences are part of the tour’s allure as well. Several members named iconic North American eateries like In-N-Out Burger and Boiling Crab as must-visit stops, highlighting their desire to connect with regional flavors alongside their musical journey. Woonhak’s anticipation for Mexican cuisine in Mexico City reflects the group’s broader engagement with the cultures they encounter.

As they embark on this demanding tour schedule, the members acknowledged the physical and mental challenges ahead. Emphasizing the importance of mutual care and health maintenance, they conveyed a determination to sustain their energy and enthusiasm throughout the extensive itinerary.

Addressing their North American fans, BOYNEXTDOOR expressed gratitude for the ongoing support and eagerness to create memorable live experiences. They view this tour as an opportunity not only to share their music but also to draw inspiration from the diverse cultures and audiences they will encounter, laying the groundwork for their future artistic evolution.