In recent years, Indonesia has witnessed a significant boom in interest in live concerts and music events, making it one of the most vibrant markets in Southeast Asia.
From international superstars to rising K-pop sensations, Indonesia’s concert scenes have thrived, with fans willing to do almost anything to secure their ticket to the show.
This high interest has led to unique behaviors like joining the intense “ticket wars,” paying higher prices to scalpers (calo), or even opting for a ticket purchasing service (jastip) to bypass the rush.
The “Ticket War” Craze
With limited seating and high demand, concert ticket sales in Indonesia have turned into a veritable battleground, widely referred to as the “ticket war.”
During ticket releases, tens of thousands of fans compete online to secure a spot, sometimes within minutes. Factors such as limited seating capacity and the artist’s global appeal have only intensified these ticket wars, pushing fans to explore different ways to get a ticket.
Due to the fierce competition for tickets, some fans find it nearly impossible to get tickets during the official sale. As a result, a secondary market has emerged, with ticket scalpers (calo) charging a premium price for the tickets. Many fans, driven by the desire to see their favorite artists, are willing to pay these inflated prices, sometimes two to three times the original cost. Despite the extra cost, fans continue to buy from calo since it’s often the last chance to attend a sold-out concert.
Another trend that has risen alongside the concert craze in Indonesia is the use of jastip, or personal shopping services, for ticket purchasing. For a service fee, jastip providers offer to buy tickets on behalf of fans, allowing those unable to join the ticket war to secure their spot at the concert. This service is popular among fans who fear missing out on tickets, as it gives them an alternative to purchasing from scalpers. The convenience of jastip has made it a valuable option in the concert ticketing landscape.
Why Are Indonesians So Passionate About Live Concerts?
There are several cultural and social factors contribute to Indonesians’ deep passion for live concerts:
- Social Media Influence: With the rise of social media, Indonesians are exposed to concert experiences from around the world. Seeing friends and influencers attending major concerts drives FOMO (fear of missing out) and a strong desire to be part of the same experience.
- Music Culture: Music has a special place in Indonesian society, with genres like pop, rock, and especially K-pop having massive followings. Fans are incredibly dedicated to their favorite artists, and attending concerts is one way of showing support and feeling closer to them.
- Economic Growth: Indonesia’s economy has grown over the past decade, leading to a rise in disposable income. As a result, more people can afford to spend on live concerts and experiences that they might not have been able to in the past.
The Future of Concerts in Indonesia: More Demand, More Access
The demand for live concerts in Indonesia is expected to continue rising, with fans eagerly awaiting each new concert announcement.
As ticket demand grows, there may be a need for more robust ticketing solutions to prevent scalping and make tickets accessible for genuine fans. Organizers may also consider expanding venues to accommodate more fans and reduce ticket competition.
As fans continue to battle it out in ticket wars, pay higher prices to scalpers, and use jastip services, it’s clear that Indonesians’ passion for concerts is stronger than ever since concerts offer more than just an opportunity to see one’s favorite artist—they provide a sense of community, joy, and memories that last a lifetime.
Whether through official channels or alternative methods, Indonesians are determined to be part of the concert scene, solidifying the nation’s place as a top destination for international artists.
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References:
2. How ticket scalping hurts Indonesia’s concert industry – Sat, June 3, 2023 – The Jakarta Post
3. Banyak Orang Nonton Konser Blackpink Dicap FOMO, Apa Itu? – Gaya Tempo.co
