Cha Eun-woo in Waterbomb 2024 (Photo: @waterbomb_official/ Instagram)
Cover Cha Eun-woo in Waterbomb 2024 (Photo: @waterbomb_official/ Instagram)
Cha Eun-woo in Waterbomb 2024 (Photo: @waterbomb_official/ Instagram)

South Korea’s Waterbomb Festival is making a splash in Manila for the first time, promising an unforgettable experience all under a spray of water cannons

The Waterbomb Festival, South Korea’s electrifying fusion of music and water warfare, is set to drench Manila for the first time on February 22 and 23. Hosted at Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, this festival promises a tidal wave of hip-hop, R&B, EDM, and K-pop—all delivered under a relentless spray of water cannons.

Since its inception in 2015, Waterbomb has become a summer ritual in South Korea, where festivalgoers, armed with water guns, engage in playful battles while world-class performers take the stage. Over the years, its reputation has surged beyond Korea’s borders, bringing its high-energy spectacle to audiences worldwide. Now, it’s Manila’s turn to dive in.

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The lineup for the festival’s Manila debut is nothing short of exhilarating. The artists are split into two teams—Blue and Yellow—each ready to bring their own sonic arsenal to the splash-soaked battleground.

On Saturday, February 22, expect an explosive mix of seasoned acts and rising stars. Dynamicduo and Epik High will deliver their signature blend of lyrical dexterity and old-school cool, while Kim Jong-kook’s unmistakable vocals are set to stir up the crowd. 

EXO’s Chanyeol and NU’EST’s Baekho add a touch of K-pop star power, while the likes of Hwasa, B.I, Kwon Eun-bi, and Lee Chae-yeon bring their own unique flair to the stage. 

STAYC, a fan-favourite girl group, is also part of the roster, alongside an electrifying DJ lineup that includes Roots, ZB & ATION, J.E.B, IMLAY, APRO, Thea Astley, Raiden, and more.

Sunday, February 23, raises the stakes even higher. Kang Daniel, the multi-talented singer and dancer, takes centre stage, alongside reggae duo Skull and Haha and the ever-charismatic Jessi. 

Sunmi and Hyolyn, known for their powerhouse performances, will keep the energy sky-high, while Gray and Bambam bring their own brand of swagger to the mix. 

Girl groups Oh My Girl and VIVIZ add an extra splash of colour, and the lineup extends further with REDDY, Yang Se-chan, U-kwon, INSIDECORE, SIENA GIRLS, Aster & Neo, 2SPADE, Mar Vista, Kenet, and Bilib. 

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Tickets are available via the Waterbomb Manila official website and select ticketing outlets. There are various ticket tiers, ranging from general admission to VIP packages that offer exclusive perks such as priority access, dedicated splash zones, and meet-and-greet opportunities with select artists.

Attendees are encouraged to dress comfortably and waterproof their essentials—expect a festival experience where getting soaked is part of the fun. Stay tuned for further updates on festival rules, schedules, and additional surprises as the event approaches.

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Angela Nicole Guiral
Digital Editor, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia

Angela Nicole Regis Guiral is a digital editor at Tatler Philippines. She studied journalism and has since written features that look closely at how culture, lifestyle and social impact converge, while occasionally wandering into the worlds of style and travel.