Red Velvet’s Irene Appears At Jakarta Concert Despite Earlier Plans Of Sitting It Out

On September 23, the collaborative concert of SM Entertainment artists, SMTOWN LIVE 2023 SMCU PALACE JAKARTA, took place at the GBK stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia. The lineup included TVXQ!, Super Junior, Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT Dream, WayV, aespa, and RIIZE.

However, earlier on the day of the concert, SM Entertainment notified fans that Red Velvet member Irene would be sitting out this show due to her health concerns, and the group would perform with the rest of the four members.

But during Red Velvet’s set, Irene made a surprise appearance on stage. During the show, Joy told the audience, “Irene unnie has been feeling unwell, but she pushed to perform with us for the fans in Jakarta.” 

아이린 언니가 컨디션이 좋지 않았는데 자카르타 팬여러분을 보고 싶어서 같이 무대하게 됐어요 pic.twitter.com/hNhNTDW2s8

— 맑음쨩 (@zoooie_1) September 23, 2023

While the live audience welcomed Irene with loud cheers, fans who saw the concert videos online were left concerned about her health. Many felt that she looked visibly unwell and had to be physically supported by her members at times while performing.

THE CHEERS FOR IRENE
YOU DESERVE IT pic.twitter.com/ZZtsVC9nO1

— Chi (@kimjenknee) September 23, 2023

this is so hard to watch rest well irene pic.twitter.com/tpbCbiutLB

— Elle (@chobomseulrene) September 23, 2023

I admire Irene for going to stage even she’s not feeling well i hope she can get enough rest pic.twitter.com/IqQ3PDzg6C

— Jazz (@mjkmwntr) September 23, 2023

Look at Irene's hand… it looks like she had an IV drip IRENE, PLEASE REST AFTER. You proved to us always that you LOVE us, but we also love you so much. Your health will always be our TOP priority. Your members and us, your luvies, will ALWAYS understand ???? pic.twitter.com/1njmTRPEve

— nyum (@ailouroshyun) September 23, 2023

Despite her condition, Irene gave her all on stage, touching the hearts of her fans. This appearance was also more meaningful to fans given the anxiety they have been facing amidst rumors of Irene reconsidering her contract renewal with SM Entertainment.

Irene deciding to perform despite being sick and despite the show already announcing she couldn’t is all the motivation I need to get through the horrible week I’m about to have. BAE JOOHYUN MY INSPIRATION MY MOTIVATION MY IDOL MY NUMBER 1 GIRL FOR LYF LOML

— K.Lo (@bossbaechu) September 23, 2023

Irene being the most stubborn human and performing because she wants to see her fans, first ot5 performance in months oh I'm a wreck

— 2hyun2furious ~ celebrate enjoyer (@disastergayrene) September 23, 2023

Irene didn’t want to let fans down and still performed stfu she’s making me cry ????pic.twitter.com/TtT9o2ncTB

— kc|∞ (@babyblueorange) September 23, 2023