Whether it’s schoolboys trying to win over their crush’s heart, characters of a glitchy video game, teenage delinquents taking over empty parking lots or even a human-sized version of Fruit Ninja, NCT Dream has shown fans it all.
Over eight years of singles and album tracks made the group – a sub-unit, part of NCT’s extended universe – earn its status of critical acclamation in their home country of South Korea and beyond, being the first and only Asian artist to appear three consecutive times on Billboard’s “21 Under 21” list for their industry impact on sales, streaming and social media.
Yet, on stage is where NCT Dream’s star shines the brightest. Having been trained together as a team since they were literal children, Mark, Renjun, Haechan, Jeno, Jaemin, Chenle and Jisung have the perfect on-stage synergy and move effortlessly between vibrant, electrifying sets and deeper, more emotional pieces.
Starting their careers back in 2016 at ages 14 to 16 meant having plenty of time to find their sound and identity, and that NCT Dream have done through lots of trial – and, perhaps, not so much error.
Ahead of their concert at London’s OVO Arena Wembley on November 12th, here we rank the best NCT Dream eras in terms of live performances, focusing on the first time each of their singles was shown at a music show or live showcase.
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15. Chewing Gum (M Countdown – August 25, 2016)
In their first-ever official performance as a group, the seven school-aged boys used hoverboards, pyjama-style outfits, and all their playful energy to make ‘Chewing Gum’ an adorable debut stage. Jisung and Jaemin’s dance moments set a precedent for the potential the future idols would come to show.
Jaemin’s ‘work’ intro followed by clean, synchronised moves perfectly set the tone for ‘Boom’, in which the members make up for Mark’s absence (due to NCT Dream’s maximum age system that was subsequently overruled) with a catchy chorus, sophisticated choreography and refined suit styling. Another fan favourite, and one of the first times we could hear Jisung’s mature vocals come to the spotlight.
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14. Ridin’ (NCT Dream THE STAGE – April 30, 2020)
2019 and 2020 were big years for automotive themes in K-pop (see SuperM’s ‘100’ or Stray Kids’ God’s Menu), and NCT Dream embraced that by dancing in front of LED streets in a routine that could have been more memorable, given its easy-to-remember choreo’ and explosive closing sequence.
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13. Hot Sauce (M Countdown – May 13, 2021)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_sCDS7YaqA
With a Latin-inspired setup, “Hot Sauce” is visually remarkable. The bold and iconic chorus choreography and lively stage design made this era popular among the general public.
12. ISTJ (M Countdown – July 20, 2023)
Futuristic styling and detailed routine make ‘ISTJ’ stand out, while our ears are blessed with an NCT staple: intense verses are switched into a smooth bridge, and then are brought back for an explosive ending. A solid performance, though it doesn’t rank as a fan favourite.
11. Glitch Mode (DREAM STAGE – March 30, 2022)
Visually not especially remarkable, especially noting the lack of the bright pink styling points (except for Chenle’s hair) that was a signature of this era. The “buffering” dance move brings a cool element to this visually sharp setup. If you like dance breaks, this is the one for you!
10. Go (M Countdown – March 8, 2018)
During the ‘Go’ era, a new NCT Dream was born. The song and its performances were the first instances of a darker, more mature concept, that can be verified by this comeback stage’s moody setup and teenage-coded outfits, with a special mention to Jisung’s Kanye West tee. Other highlights are Jaemin’s return to the group after a long hiatus, Mark’s first time doing a more hard-hitting rap verse for the previously childlike sub-unit, and Chenle and Haechan’s strong ad-libs.
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9. Smoothie (Music Bank – March 29, 2024)
Contrary to the pattern followed by NCT Dream’s generally upbeat ‘food-and-drinks’ songs, ‘Smoothie’ kicks off with a powerful intro and more mature, easily remembered choreography. The well-styled set gives it an expensive feel, and the coordination is on point.
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8. We Young (M Countdown – August 17, 2017)
Bringing a visual overload with sailor fits and a bright, colourful staging, ‘We Young’ exudes cuteness. While not overly known by the general public, this stage’s playful essence, fresh feel, catchy lyrics and point choreography keep it striking.
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7. Beatbox (1theK – June 2, 2022)
‘Beatbox’ is a crowd-pleaser, with its clean routine that makes the viewer want to dance along. The members’ enjoyment of the track shines through, giving this performance a laid-back vibe that makes you smile while watching. Bonus points for some sweet duo/solo moments along the video.
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6. Boom (Music Bank – July 26, 2019)
Jaemin’s ‘work’ intro followed by clean, synchronized moves perfectly set the tone for ‘Boom’, in which the members make up for Mark’s absence (due to NCT Dream’s maximum age system that was subsequently overruled) with a catchy chorus, sophisticated choreography and refined suit styling. Another fan favourite, and one of the first times when we could hear Jisung’s mature vocals come to the spotlight.
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5. Candy (KBS Song Festival – December 16, 2022)
Dressed in retro holiday wear reminiscent of the original H.O.T. song from 1996, the members fully embrace ‘camp’ in ‘Candy’. The performance is purposefully cheesy, the dance moves are a timeless classic, and the members look like they’re having fun with the unashamed silliness of it, making this a joy to watch.
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4. We Go Up (Music Bank – August 31, 2018)
With another iconic Jaemin intro, and not the best outfits in NCT Dream’s career, this performance is carried by a catchy chorus, addictive rap verses all throughout the song, and a sweet bridge. Among other fun solo dance moments from other members, Jeno owns the central position in this one – especially during the closing sequence.
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3. My First and Last (M Countdown – February 9, 2017)
With matching uniforms, interesting hairstyle choices and a dream, the members managed to solidify their first comeback show on the NCT fan favourites Hall of Fame. Its creative and memorable choreography is still ingrained in most fans’ memories, laced with a feel-good song that still matches the older version of NCT Dream when performed by their grown-up selves.
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2. Hello Future (M Countdown – July 1, 2021)
Possibly the group’s most colourful release in all its tie-dye, hippie chic glory, ‘Hello Future’ has a grandiose feel, hopeful tones, and an expansive dance sequence to match. All that said, what brings the performance to its S-tier status is the last chorus, when they bring up the tone, and sync the moves just that bit more, and it feels like the viewer is engulfed in all the songs’ colours. Truly a summer hit done well.
1. Broken Melodies (Music Bank – June 23, 2023)
A clean aesthetic both in stage design and styling choices set the tone for one of NCT Dream’s grander performances. This is one the rare instances where NCT Dream bring backup dancers to a music show performance, which makes the stage look full and grand, and opens up opportunities to show out-of-the-box creative choreo’. This performance feels as expansive as it does refined, earning it this list’s top spot.
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Honourable mentions (not singles, but promotional songs that were too good to leave out):
Life is Still Going On + ANL (NCT Dream YT Channel – August 18, 2021)
This performance, released in commemoration of the group’s 5th anniversary, feels like the perfect blend of a jam session among friends and an intimate concert just for the fans, free from the pressures of performing for a larger audience. The live vocals shine in this warm, friendly setup, filled with genuine smiles, playful improvisation, and laid-back moments under the soft glow of a sunset turning into night. This cosy atmosphere perfectly captures the album’s spirit, making the performance feel as personal as it does inviting.
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Dive Into You (7DREAM return! 7+맛=Show – May 11, 2021)
With a mostly seated choreography and plenty of isolated moments for members to have their moment in the spotlight, this fan-favourite strikes the perfect balance between dancing scenes and heartfelt interaction. The relaxed style gives it an effortless feel, like a personal jam session just for fans. The open set-up allows the members to play off each other, creating an intimate, warm experience that draws fans closer.
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Rainbow (7DREAM return! 7+맛=Show – May 11, 2021)
Sentimental and vocal-driven, ‘Rainbow’ has that concert encore feel, bringing warmth and, honestly, all the feels, to the audience. The member’s vocal colours are enhanced by the simple stage design that serves its purpose of enhancing the intimate vibe. No wonder this track is often cited as one of the member’s favourites out of their discography.
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UNKNOWN (M Countdown – March 28, 2024)
NCT Dream’s sleek comeback performance of ‘UNKNOWN’ showcases a darker edge with intricate choreography and a more sombre, yet simple set design. The beat-led melody and layered harmonies pair well with NCT Dream’s usual sharp formations, making for a more mature, sophisticated atmosphere.
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Yogurt Shake (M Countdown – August 10, 2023)
Bubbly, nostalgic, and reminiscent of NCT Dream’s earlier days, ‘Yogurt Shake’ is simple but fun. The bright visuals and catchy chorus make it an easy and fun listen.
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NCT Dream will play London’s Wembley Arena on November 12th following the release of their new album ‘DREAMSCAPE’ on November 11th.
Words: Maria Letícia L. Gomes
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