It seems that more K-pop groups are incorporating send-offs as part of their VIP package deals during concert tours. While this is exciting news for fans, it also raises the question of whether this trend is just a passing phase or something that will become a permanent feature.

With many groups currently on tour, videos have surfaced showing groups like TXT, ATEEZ, and P1Harmony holding send-offs for their fans.

To explain what a send-off involves, depending on the type of VIP ticket purchased, fans receive an extra bonus: the opportunity to say goodbye to their idols up close. In various fan-recorded videos, you can see a small group of fans positioned behind a barricade. For a few minutes, the idols come out and either shake hands, take selfies, or sign photo-cards and other merchandise.

There are some adorable moments, like one involving an ATINY (ATEEZ fan) who was surprised when Hongjoong, in the middle of signing, turned around after hearing the fan exclaim, “Oh my god, I’m taller than him.” He then asked with a funny, judgmental expression, “How was the show?”

One iconic moment, which even made it to Korean news, occurred during TXT’s Atlanta stop. Member Yeonjun witnessed and even helped record a fan’s marriage proposal to their partner, leaving both the singer and the woman being proposed to in shock.

While these moments are heartwarming, some fans have expressed dissatisfaction with the send-off experience for a few reasons. Firstly, the send-off period is quite short, lasting about eight minutes in total. Fans were not organized in an orderly fashion; instead, it felt more like a general admission pit, with fans being tightly packed together. There have also been reports of fans stealing wallets and personal items in the crowd. Lastly, unless you’re right at the barricade, it’s difficult to get anything signed or even properly greet the band members. All these issues for a cost of around $600 to $700, not including additional expenses like travel, accommodation, and food outside the concert.

Expanding on the idea, it seems that a more structured and intimate meet-and-greet session could offer a far superior experience compared to the current send-offs. Meet-and-greets scheduled a few hours before the actual concert would allow for a more relaxed atmosphere where fans can truly enjoy their interaction with the artists.

Given that VIP ticket holders are often required to arrive at the venue early for activities like soundcheck, there is typically a lull period of three to four hours before the main event begins. This downtime, which fans usually spend milling around or taking photos inside the venue, could be better utilized for a thoughtfully organized meet-and-greet session.

In this setting, fans could engage more meaningfully with their favorite idols, free from the rushed and often chaotic environment that characterizes send-offs. Instead of being crowded together in a small area, fans could be given designated times or smaller group sessions, allowing for more personal interactions such as brief conversations, personalized autographs, and even photo opportunities. This would not only enhance the fan experience but also ensure that each attendee feels valued and appreciated.

Additionally, the meet-and-greet format would alleviate many of the issues currently associated with send-offs, such as the jostling crowds, limited interaction time, and the discomfort of being packed tightly against other fans. By organizing these events in a controlled manner, both fans and idols could enjoy a more pleasant and memorable experience.

However, it may be a while before we see meet-and-greets at K-pop concerts. In the meantime, what are your thoughts on these special VIP package deals that include send-offs?