Sales Suspended Amid Growing Controversy
Headliner Yet to Be Announced
The organizers of the music festival 'Madly Medley' have suspended sales of the 1% ticket, which was priced at 8.88 million won, following a surge of criticism.
On July 15, the festival's organizer, CultureThink, stated via social networking services (SNS), "We deeply empathize with the concerns and criticisms many have raised regarding the 1% ticket. We sincerely apologize for the confusion and inconvenience caused by insufficient information and inadequate preparation."
While the daily ticket for 'Madly Medley' was priced at 118,000 won, the two-day pass at 148,000 won, and the two-day VIP ticket at 248,000 won?amounts considered standard?the 1% ticket, which included benefits such as an after-party, exclusive entry and exit gates, and access to view from the main stage, was sold at 8.88 million won, sparking controversy. The organizers explained that the 1% ticket was "planned as a premium ticket to offer a new audience experience," and that "it was a ticket category prepared to introduce benefits and services operated at many overseas festivals to Korea." They added, "We sincerely apologize for not providing sufficient information and details about the benefits commensurate with the ticket price, which led to various misunderstandings," and announced that sales of the 1% ticket had been suspended. All existing purchasers will receive a full refund.
The organizers stated that they will review this ticket category and provide an updated notice after further consideration. Although the headliners have not yet been officially announced, there have been rumors that G-Dragon will perform as the headliner on the first day, adding to the price controversy. While ticket prices for domestic performances have been steadily rising, the unprecedented amount of 8.88 million won has prompted a wide range of reactions among online users.
Some online users interpreted this as premium marketing aimed at a small number of people seeking exclusivity. In contrast, many others criticized the ticket as being targeted at specific VIPs, particularly as a marketing ploy aimed at tourists from Greater China. Meanwhile, 'Madly Medley,' which celebrated its 10th anniversary last September under the slogan "A festival for everyone who loves music," has announced its first lineup for the upcoming October event, featuring Kim Changwan Band, Kim Kwangjin, 015B, E Sens, Sik-K, QWER, All Day Project, and C Jamm.
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