QWER and the Music Show Dilemma: Cost and the Path Forward

QWER has never appeared on a music show despite debuting a year and a half ago and winning first place multiple times. The main reason is the high cost of live performances, which can reach ₩30,000,000 KRW (≈ $22,000 USD). Although public scrutiny and past controversies added pressure, many now believe QWER should embrace music shows to grow internationally.

QWER Breaks Norms by Skipping Every Music Show

QWER debuted on October 18, 2023. A year and a half has passed since their debut. Yet, QWER has never appeared on any music show. This is very unusual because the group already won first place multiple times. Their first win came on Show Champion on October 9, 2024. They later won again on Show! Music Core and M Countdown.

QWER Avoids Music Show Due to High Cost

The main reason behind QWER avoiding music shows appears to be financial. One YouTube channel mentioned that live band setups can cost around ₩30,000,000 KRW (≈ $22,000 USD). QWER once said they found it difficult to perform due to these high expenses but might reconsider in the future.

Why Performing Live as a Band Is So Expensive

Performing live on a music show costs a fortune for bands. Complex audio gear requires a private stage just for setup. Additional expenses include staff wages, sound systems, and costumes. Many bands deal with this by using hand-sync. That way, they avoid most of the costs by pretending to play their instruments.

Avoiding Hand-Sync to Preserve Credibility

For QWER, using hand-sync wasn’t a safe choice. Some questioned the group’s live ability already. If they had faked a performance, critics might have labeled them incapable musicians. To avoid that backlash, QWER decided not to appear on any music show at all.

QWER Uses YouTube and Events Instead of Music Show

QWER relies on YouTube and social media for promotion. Their main target audience is men, so music show appearances were never essential. They also proved their live skills at various events. At events, organizers pay for the stage setup, so the group can perform without financial pressure.

Music Show Can Help QWER Grow Through Variety Shows

Online communities like MLBPARK argue QWER misses long-term benefits by skipping music shows. Appearances often lead to variety show invitations. These shows introduce members to wider audiences. That exposure can attract commercial deals and company events. Over time, music shows may boost profits significantly.

Speculation Surrounds Music Show Absence Beyond Cost

Some people believe the real reason isn’t just financial. In the past, QWER members shared lightly revealing videos as streamers. Since then, radical feminists have strongly criticized the group. Rumors claim major stations avoid inviting QWER to prevent controversy. Others believe QWER avoids music shows to protect the broadcasters.

Now Is the Right Time for QWER to Join Music Show

None of these claims have solid proof. Regardless of the past, now is the time for QWER to appear on music shows. The group already held concerts in South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. They seem financially stable enough to handle production costs. Music shows also upload videos to YouTube, drawing fans from around the world. To expand internationally, QWER should use music shows as part of their strategy. Many fans hope to see them perform on stage very soon.

QWER and Kstyle PARTY Reunite on a Bigger Stage in Tokyo

QWER and Kstyle PARTY come together again in Tokyo, this time with a full stage setup and warm fan attention. The group has grown fast over the past year, winning awards and building a solid fanbase through hit songs.

Here’s a link to MLBPARK.

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