Minho Shines Brightly At His First Solo Concert In Manila

On March 16, 2025, Choi Minho, the charismatic member of K-pop group SHINee, successfully concluded his first solo concert titled 'MEAN: of My First' at the New Frontier Theater in Manila, reaffirming his popularity and showcasing his evolution as a solo artist.

The concert marked the finale of his first Asian tour, which saw him perform across five regions including Seoul, Kaohsiung, Chiba, and Macau. Leading up to the concert, Minho expressed his excitement during a press conference, stating, "I’m so happy. I didn’t expect to have a solo concert in Manila. I want to keep all these first concert experiences not just in my head but also in my heart." This statement highlights how meaningful the event was not only for him but also for his fans, known as Shawols.

Minho's heartfelt connection with his fans was evident throughout the performance. Throughout his 16 years in the entertainment industry, he has reflected on his strengths and weaknesses, aiming to show new sides of himself as he grows both artistically and personally. "I have realized my weaknesses and my strengths as an artist. I also tried to improve my weaknesses for my best stage performance," said Minho during the media interactions.

His solo concert consisted of various tracks from his personal discography. Fans were thrilled with performances of songs from his first full-length album, CALL BACK, and the EP CHASE, including emotional numbers like "Prove It," which he dedicates to his fans as a tribute to their support. “This is my way of saying, 'We’ve made it. We’ve proven we can do it'," he explained, emphasizing the shared triumph between him and his supporters.

Minho's on-stage presence was captivating. He opened the concert with smooth tracks such as "Would You Mind" and "Affection," setting the tone for the evening with his sensual voice and dynamic movements. The enthusiastic responses from the predominantly female audience fueled his energy, contributing to the electrifying atmosphere of the night.

The concert not only showcased Minho’s vocal skills but also his diverse performance styles. He danced to faster beats with flair during songs like "Fireworks" and "Round Kick," switching to more emotive renditions for tunes like "Heartbreak" and "Stay for a Night." Fans were delighted when he surprised them with unexpected dance breaks and thematic transitions, such as moving from the melancholy of "Heartbreak" to the upbeat "Something About U." The seamless flow of songs demonstrated his growth as both a performer and artist.

Another highlight for fans was the promise of future releases. At the media conference, Minho excitedly mentioned his unreleased song "Your Light," which he described as deeply symbolic for him and his relationship with his fans. He remarked, "The lyrics are meaningful since they bear a special message for Shawols." This reveals his intent not just to entertain but to create genuine moments and connections through his music.

The atmosphere grew even more nostalgic as Minho performed a medley of SHINee's beloved hits, including "View" and "Body Rhythm." These performances served as not just memories but reminders of his roots within the K-pop group. His joy was palpable as he engaged with the audience, asking, "Are you guys having fun? Did you enjoy tonight? Me too!"

Outside the concert hall, Minho is also set to continue his multifaceted career, as he will participate as the first pitchman for the SSG Landers at the opening game of the 2025 season, showing his versatility as he embraces various roles. He will also take on the role of Tae-seop in the play Randebu, opening at the Seoul Arts Center later this month, evidencing his expansion beyond music.

Reflecting on his longevity and success, Minho attributes it to his authenticity. “I’m just true to myself, and the fans really like this side of me. For the future as well, I’ll stay true, transparent, and honest to myself," he said. His dedication to staying genuine resonates with fans, who feel this sincerity every time he takes the stage.

For many fans, including those who witnessed his energetic performances this past weekend, Minho’s inaugural solo concert was not just another event but the beginning of something incredibly special. The culmination of this concert tour serves as the groundwork for what is expected to be many future successes. With his delightful charm and intense dedication, Choi Minho continues to shine brightly, winning the hearts of fans worldwide.

For ardent Shawols and newcomers alike, Minho has cemented his status, ensuring he remains their first love within the K-pop space. The camaraderie he has sparked and nurtured over the years remains unwavering, poised to grow even more as he explores uncharted territories of artistry.

With future concerts and projects on the horizon, fans can rest assured this is just the beginning for Minho as he continues to craft his legacy with passion and creativity.