South Korean singer-songwriter Kang Daniel returned to Los Angeles at the Palace Theatre for the first time in over two and a half years, reclaiming the stage with his latest tour, ACT:NEW EPISODE.
While some might consider it a risky move to come back with a completely new concept, Daniel’s undeniable artistry and heartfelt connection with his fans made the night unforgettable.
The show opened with Daniel stepping into the spotlight in a sparkling all-black outfit, with only a mic stand and four fired-up backup dancers. His first number, “Losing Myself,” set the tone with a vulnerable energy. “This song tells the story of a time I was losing myself and I found myself again,” Daniel explained.
The honesty in his words and performance made for a striking beginning, capturing the authenticity of his craft.
He quickly shifted gears with “Outerspace,” a vibrant, high-energy track that contrasted with the opener. The song’s upbeat sound, paired with explosive choreography and instrumentals, had the crowd moving.
Throughout the night, Daniel mixed his newer tracks with nostalgic favorites. Songs like “Get Loose” and “TOUCHIN’” both showcased his signature charisma, while “TOUCHIN’” brought a taste of how music, though older, stands timeless.
He took a moment to reflect on his journey, six solo albums in, and shared that the U.S. leg of the tour had been specially restructured with a unique setup just for American fans.
The setlist balanced intensity and vulnerability. “Electric Shock” delivered one of the most shocking performances of the night, complete with electrifying choreography and a powerful finish.
In contrast, “Mess” and “One Call Away” revealed Daniel’s softer, more emotional side, carried by soaring vocals and stripped-back instrumentals.
Fan favorites like “PARANOIA” and “Wasteland” leaned into darker, moodier tones, only to be followed by the upbeat energy of “Waves” and “Who U Are.” “Waves” brought Latin-inspired rhythms that had both Daniel and the audience moving their hips, while “Who U Are” lived up to Daniel’s promise of “blowing minds.”
Then came “Episode,” the title track from his latest album. With a bossa nova-inspired rhythm and an outfit change, Daniel’s joy was evident as he spoke about the love this song has received in the U.S. Despite admitting, “To be honest, I’m exhausted,” the overwhelming cheers from fans fueled him to push through.
The closing moments included “Movie Star” and “Love Game,” the track especially meaningful as Daniel had written and composed it himself.
Across the night, Daniel displayed the full range of his artistry: vulnerable yet powerful, playful yet deeply authentic and polished.
TOUR DATES:
September 3 Charlotte, NC Parr Center
September 5 Washington, DC Atlas Performing Arts Center
September 6 Jersey City, NJ NJCU Center For The Arts
September 8 Columbus, OH The King of Clubs
September 9 Indianapolis, IN Basile Theatre
September 11 Chicago, IL Athenaeum Center Theatre
September 13 Kansas City, MO Gem Theater
September 15 Dallas, TX Coppell Arts Center
September 16 San Antonio, TX Palo Alto College Performing Arts Center
September 18 Phoenix, AZ Madison Center For The Arts
September 20 Los Angeles, CA Palace Theatre
September 22 San Jose, CA Montgomery Theater