The moment they opened the gate in Chicago, hundreds of fans were all too eager to rush through.

Seven member K-pop group Kingdom performed at Park West on September 13. The 1,000-seat venue was packed with fans, called Kingmakers or Kingme for short, who were treated to an unreal three-hour show.

Three tiers of ticket were available for sale: VVIP, VIP and T3. T3 ticket-holders were admitted into the venue for the concert at VIP. Those who could get VIP were treated to a group photo, hi-touch, VIP badge & lanyard and entry into the concert after VVIP attendees. VVIP held all the perks of VIP with the additional perks of primary entry into the concert with a numbered queue, a group photo and a fansign with Kingdom. Staff at the fan sign provided a poster for the members to sign, but fans were also allowed to bring any of Kingdom’s previous albums for the members to sign. As they spoke briefly with each member, the fan service provided certainly added an extra layer of excitement for the concert.

Unfortunately, there were some unforeseen downsides to VVIP. Considering the height of Park West’s stage, it was difficult to see the show in its entirety if you were shorter than 5’6 and couldn’t get access to the barricade. Floor work in particular was near-impossible to see in these circumstances. It begs a question every Kingme can ask themselves and will answer differently: are the fan engagements worth potentially having a worse view of the show?

For those with a good view, it was difficult to watch Kingdom’s performance without falling into a dreamlike trance. The combination of their fluid movements and ethereal beauty makes them easier to perceive as tricks of light or literal angels than idols. Even close proximity to the members, either by special perks or snapshot tickets, didn’t make them seem any more real.

Yet, they’re incredibly real. Between sets, Kingdom would address the crowd with genuine adoration and gratitude. Dressed in kimonos, the group glided across the stage and opened the show with their debut track “Excalibur.” An epic take on the legend of King Arthur’s sword, performances of this song are often ambitious, including an army of backup dancers and numerous sword props. Neither of these made an appearance, but it hardly made a difference. If you weren’t previously aware of the usual scope of the performance, it wouldn’t even feel like anything was missing. While it was visually less epic and necessitated simplified choreography at times, the group’s energy and passion weren’t hindered.

Following close was the title track from their recent album History of Kingdom: Mujin, “Dystopia,” a Japan-inspired high-energy electronic number with heavy bass and soaring vocals. In addition to other title tracks “Black Crown” and “Long Live the King,” beloved b-sides including “Love is Pain” and “Song of the Wind” made it onto the setlist. Fans were also treated to special performances of two Stray Kids songs, “Thunderous” and “Case 143,” as well as a cover of “There’s Nothing Holding Me Back” by Shawn Mendes. Once they changed into tour t-shirts and jeans, “On Air” and “Blinder” closed out the encore with a more casual tone.

In terms of fan engagement and wait times, its unarguable VVIP got the best end of the deal. Not only did they get two different opportunities to interact directly with the members of Kingdom, but primary entry spared those without coats from the chilly Chicago wind. Primary entry also meant VVIP ticket holders were directed to the floor, mere feet from the stage where Kingdom would perform.

During one of several moments the group took to further connect with their fans, the group made an exciting announcement: the next chapter in their history was just around the corner. The official announcement was made on September 19 with a new photo of their next king, maknae Jahan. Unfortunately for Kingme, they were not treated to any specific details.

“There is something we’re really sorry about,” Dann said via a translator. “I can’t give you spoilers.” The audience loudly protested, begging him to reconsider, but he stayed resolute.

“While we were giving out all these spoilers, we got in trouble,” he said before continuing in English. “I thought our managers weren’t watching, but they’re always watching.” After putting a hand to his eyebrow and scanning the audience, he comically yelled, “They’re spies!”

Despite a lack of details, fans weren’t left with nothing. Ivan expressed he “had a lot of fun recording this album” before Dann revealed they learned the choreography and filmed the music video in just three days. The final word on History of Kingdom: Jahan came from Louis, who gave him advice on being the next in line for the throne.

“As long as you listen to the feedback that Kingmakers give you, you’ll be a great king,” Louis said.

History of Kingdom: Jahan was originally scheduled to release on October 18. On September 21, their company GF Entertainment announced the pre-release would be postponed due “internal circumstances” via the group’s official fan cafe.

When the show was over, the members returned for the snapshot session. Before and at the show, fans could purchase tickets to have Polaroid photos taken with their favorite member or members. These were less formal opportunities to interact and connect with the members, where the members could get up close and personal with their fans. Regardless if fans were shy or excitable, goofy or reserved, Kingdom seemed to do what they could to make sure fans felt safe and had fun. In return, staff and fans worked together to ensure the members were comfortable in their interactions. Although it lasted for minutes at most, It made the experience all the more delightful.

While there was no complex set design or intricate costuming, watching Kingdom perform really does feel like watching seven kings at work. As attendees wait with bated breath for Kingdom’s next comeback, they can look back to the night Park West became a palace.

Kingdom’s Grand America tour wraps up in Los Angeles on October 1. Tickets can be purchased here.