top of page

9 Moments That Made Waterbomb Seoul 2025 Go Viral!

Collage of EXO’s Kai, Kwon Eunbi, and ITZY’s Yeji performing at Waterbomb Seoul 2025 in bold summer looks
Waterbomb 2025 brought the ultimate summer vibe with power-packed stages and bold fashion (Credits: Waterbomb Festival)

Waterbomb Seoul 2025 just made a massive splash this past weekend! Known for its wild water fights, sizzling idol performances, and electric crowd energy, it’s no surprise this festival is a K-pop fan favorite every summer.


But it wasn’t all splash and smiles; this year’s Waterbomb also stirred up major buzz online with outfit debates, AI controversies, and even concerns about water usage.


Whether you were there in person or catching clips online, here are the 9 moments that had everyone talking and why Waterbomb 2025 won’t be forgotten anytime soon!



1. Karina’s Sprite Energy


 Karina performing on Waterbomb Seoul stage with a water gun and Sprite-themed visuals.
 Karina sprays the crowd with Sprite during her solo performance at Waterbomb 2025. (Credits: Chosun Korea)

aespa’s Karina kicked off the July 5 show with her solo stage, bringing cool energy to match her Sprite sponsorship. She hyped the crowd with water sprays and even took selfies mid-performance. It felt like her commercial came to life, and fans loved every second.



2. AI Deepfake Controversy


Screenshot of Waterbomb teaser video showing digitally animated Karina images.
Promotional visuals spark backlash over AI use in Karina’s Waterbomb teaser. (Credits: Twitter/X)

Waterbomb found itself in hot water before the event began when promotional clips of Karina included AI-generated deepfake animations of her blinking and moving. Fans called it “creepy” and demanded it be taken down, sparking a discussion on digital consent and idol privacy.



3. J.Y. Park’s Viral Outfit


J.Y. Park wearing a shiny crop top while smiling on stage during the festival.
JYP rocks a bold pink halter crop top, stealing attention at Waterbomb Seoul 2025. (Credits: Waterbomb Korea)

JYP himself turned heads by arriving in a shiny hot pink halter crop top and vinyl pants—yes, you read that right. His bold look lit up X (formerly Twitter), instantly becoming one of the most shared memes from the event. Love it or hate it, he made a splash.



4. Eun-Bi, Still the Waterbomb Queen


Eun-bi dancing in white bikini top and denim shorts under water sprays at Waterbomb.
Kwon Eun-bi delivers another sizzling stage performance, living up to her “Waterbomb Goddess” title. (Credits: Waterbomb Korea)

Kwon Eun-Bi once again took the stage by storm, dressed in a white crochet bikini top and denim shorts. Her confidence and fierce moves had fans chanting her name. Some netizens debated her outfit choice, but her stage views hit millions in a day.



5. EXO’s Surprise Mini Reunion Took Over the Stage


Fans were shocked when Suho and Chanyeol joined Kai on stage for a surprise performance of “Growl.” The trio, all in sleeveless or shirtless looks, delivered an electrifying set. Social media exploded, calling it the Waterbomb moment of the year.



6. HUTA Returns as Waterbomb’s Reigning King


ree

No Waterbomb is complete without BTOB’s Lee Minhyuk, better known as HUTA. The idol-rapper made his grand return this year, and fans knew exactly what to expect - abs, energy, and jaw-dropping charisma.



7. TEN's Legendary Water Stage


Screenshot of TEN from a previous Waterbomb performance, soaked and mid-dance.
Clips of TEN’s past water stage go viral again, as fans reminisce about his energy. (Credits: X )

TEN made a powerful return to Waterbomb Seoul 2025 with a performance fans won’t forget anytime soon. Dressed in a mesh see-through top and iced blue jeans, his stage presence was electric. Fans called for his return in 2026, saying his water stage is still unmatched.



8. 2NE1 Reunites—Finally!




One of the biggest surprises? A mini reunion of 2NE1. Park Bom, Dara, and Minzy appeared for a special collaboration, performing old hits like “I Am the Best” in full waterbomb fashion. Though CL couldn’t join due to scheduling, fans cheered through tears and called it the festival’s most emotional moment.


“It felt like 2011 all over again!” — Fans on Naver Cafe


9. Splash or Waste? Water Usage Sparks Debate



As Waterbomb's water cannons and foam blasters filled the venue, concerns arose over water wastage. With parts of Korea facing drought warnings, critics questioned whether the massive water use was necessary. Fans suggested more eco-friendly setups for future editions, while organizers claimed they used recycled and filtered water.



Final Thoughts


Waterbomb Seoul 2025 wasn't just a music festival—it was a full-blown summer pop culture moment. From Karina's high-energy solo to 2NE1’s emotional stage and unforgettable fashion, the event delivered on every level.


Which moment from Waterbomb 2025 got you the most hyped? Did 2NE1’s reunion bring back memories, or was JYP’s outfit the real shocker? Let us know your favorite memory in the comments!


Comments


bottom of page