By Aceelaine Duron & Lace Anne Ebuna
(July 27, 2024) – True to the “We are one! EXO, saranghaja [let’s love]!” motto for 12 beautiful years, Filipino EXO-Ls filled ‘The Big Dome’ to reunite with Suho at his first-ever solo concert “SU:HOME In Manila” last Saturday, June 22.
“Last year, I went to another country but you know the country I visited the most? Manila. You know I’ve been to other countries just once, I came here twice. Do you know the start point of the world tour of ‘SU:HOME?’ Manila. I think it’s destiny,” the EXO’s leader said in Korean.
Moved by the loud cheers and support, the South Korean star, also known offstage as Kim Jun-myeon, expressed profound gratitude to fans as he kicked off his first-ever solo concert with Filipino fans.
“I’m so relieved and happy that Manila is the first stop of this tour,” he said, adding in Tagalog: “Magsama tayo magpakailanman. Mahal kita, Manila!”
He also couldn’t help but praise Filo EXO-Ls’ voices, saying, “This country has the best singers. Manila, EXO-Ls are number one. You guys are number one.”
With most EXO-Ls channeling their pink princess era, Filipino fans entered Araneta Coliseum carrying their banners, “Eribongs” — EXO official lightstick, and illuminated tulips in different colors.
Loud cheers echoed in The Big Dome after Suho began the concert with an electrifying start, capturing fans’ attention as the curtain rose to reveal the grand set of the concert, which resembled a three-floor dollhouse.
The fans were in awe as Suho picked up a guitar and sang a soulful “Mayday” as his opening song, followed by his captivating performances of “Morning Star,” “Grey Suit,” and “Self-Portrait.”
“Kumusta kayo, Manila? Ako si Suho from EXO! Sobrang na-miss ko kayo!” he greeted in Tagalog.
“I hope you feel comfortable in my home, and this is actually the show after releasing my third mini-album.”
Suho then performed “Zero Gravity,” – a song inspired by his fans, followed by high-energy performances of “Cheese” and “1 to 3.”
The 33-year-old artist closed the first set of his solo concert with a dynamic rockstar performance of “Hurdle,” which seemed to be the highlight of the show as confetti showered and giant plastic balls bounced among the partying crowd.
Amazed by the fans’ energy, Suho exclaimed, “You guys really know how to enjoy, huh!”
After intense and party-like performances, Suho delivered soulful renditions of “Curtain” and “Starry Night.” He then continued with “Wishful Thinking,” “Moonlight,” “Decanting,” “Bear Hug,” and “For You Now,” further showcasing his exceptional vocal prowess.
From a feeling-like-home renditions to a nostalgic moment, the K-pop star traveled back in time with Filo EXO-Ls as he performed one of EXO’s hit songs from the 2013 Miracles in December album — “The First Snow.”
The crowd further sang their hearts out to a medley of EXO’s biggest hits, as the South Korean singer rocked out to “Growl,” “Overdose,” and “Monster” with his talented live band.
He further delighted the fans during his “Alright Alright” performance, where he went down the stage wearing his pink bunny headdress to sing up-close and interact with the audience.
Concluding the concert’s final set, he performed “O2” and “Let’s Love,” where a fan took a chance to propose to his girlfriend.
On his Instagram live, Suho extended his congratulations to the soon-to-be-married couple, sharing that he had seen the proposal video.
“It became an even more meaningful day to me. Congratulations on your marriage. I wish you to have a beautiful son and daughter, beautiful just like EXO. Saranghaja!” he said.
Filo EXO-Ls also serenaded their idol by singing “Made In You,” beneath a banner reading, “Junmyeon-ah, Philippine EXO-Ls are made in you and by you. Let’s love each other forever!”
Suho kicked off his encore with his hit song “Moment,” saying, “To the Manila EXO-Ls who have cheered so passionately for me, thank you so much. Let’s give yourselves a round of applause.”
Acknowledging a banner that reads, “Our Suho, when you need strength, come home to us,” he expressed deep appreciation for the fans, “I’m truly touched.”
He also encouraged fans to address him as “Suho-yah” or “Junmyeon-ah,” terms used in Korea typically reserved for close friends or family.
“I like it so much because you call me in a friendly way. Whenever you guys call me that way, I find it comforting to my heart. It warms my heart,” he expressed sincerely.
Suho concluded the concert with an emotional rendition of his encore song “Made In You,” prompting Filipino fans to sing along with EXO’s leader.
As he bid farewell to fans, the South Korean singer promised to return to Manila with his EXO co-members, “Mahal kita, EXO-L. Thank you for waiting for me and EXO. I will come back to Manila as soon as possible. See you next time. Thank you so much. I love you so much!”
Finally, joined by fans, he shouted “Mahal kita! We are one! EXO, saranghaja!”
Indeed, a kind of home that brings comfort to every EXO-Ls.
The “SU:HOME In Manila” concert was presented by Wilbros Live.
(PB)
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