“2025 XIUMIN FAN CONCERT” Brings XIUMIN’s Winter Magic to Manila

Well, that brand new feeling didn’t just arrive, it exploded into the hearts of PH EXO-Ls and ELSAs on May 10 as XIUMIN took the Manila stage with his irresistible charm, boundless energy, and a smile that could outshine the spotlight.

Presented by PULP Live World, 2025 XIUMIN FAN CONCERT < X Times ( ) > was more than just a fan event; it was a full-on celebration of everything that makes Xiumin beloved: charisma, talent, and a sprinkle of that signature Minseok mischief.

From the moment he stepped onto the New Frontier Theater stage, Xiumin made it clear that this night was about connection. Between high-energy performances, heartfelt ments, and playful banter with fans, he transformed the venue into a space where everyone felt seen, appreciated, and thoroughly entertained.

Here’s what went down to possibly one of the most fun fan concerts this year!

As the opening notes of “Daisy” played, the crowd went wild, and a sea of twinkling rose lights welcomed Xiumin, thanks to a fan project that lit up the New Frontier Theater like a real-life dream. Xiumin, clearly feeling the love, flashed his trademark smile and greeted everyone with a simple but sweet “Mahal ko kayo” (“I love you”). And it wasn’t just his fans who felt the love; Xiumin couldn’t stop gushing about how much strength their energy gave him. “So many of you here give me so much strength!” he said, making everyone melt just a little more.

In classic Xiumin fashion, he shared a funny tidbit about his trips to Manila. He’s been craving some local burgers, but he’s not too happy that they’re “too small” for his appetite. But what got the fans excited? His love for Jollibee! He confessed he’s “obsessed” with the fast-food chain and can’t get enough of their burger and spaghetti. Sounds like Xiumin is a fan of the classics!

HOT IXXUE
Now for the fun stuff! Xiumin was crowned Master of Aegyo (no surprise there), but the real kicker? He’s the Master of Cleaning! Yes, you read that right, Xiumin loves a good cleaning session and gets down to labor songs while he’s at it. “Strong,” he joked, flexing his muscles like he’s ready to mop the floor… with your heart.

SHOCKING NEWS X WHO CAME BACK ACROSS 400 YEARS
In a truly unexpected turn, Xiumin announced some shocking news: Heo Gyun had made a surprise return after 400 years! To top it off, he came dressed in a full hanbok, channeling the spirit of the past while joking about how time hadn’t done him any favors. Fans were in stitches, wondering if he’d been secretly time-traveling. “What’s next, Xiumin?” they wondered.

Xiumin as the Face of a Commercial
But wait, there’s more! Xiumin also shared that he’s now the new face of a basic fried chicken commercial. And naturally, he couldn’t just talk about chicken without getting into full-on entertainer mode. What’s a fried chicken ad without a little fun? Xiumin broke out into the Chicken Banana dance with the host, turning the stage into a mini dance party. 400 years of history and the Chicken Banana, talk about mixing the old with the new!

The concert continued with a setlist that had everyone screaming, including hits like “WHEE” and “BRAND NEW”. But it wasn’t just the music that had the fans hooked; Xiumin kept the mood light with comedic banter in between songs, sharing playful moments with the audience. The unexpected interactions, the laughs, and his contagious energy made it clear, this was his favorite stop on the tour. “I’m having the most fun here in the Philippines!” he confessed, and with that, the crowd went wild.

“Love Is U, Xiumin”

Xiumin’s heart was definitely touched by the outpouring of love from his fans. The night was filled with touching fan projects, starting with the heartfelt video tribute that left him fighting back tears. The video, showcasing messages and memories from PH EXO-Ls and ELSAs, moved him deeply despite his best efforts to stay composed. As the crowd cheered, Xiumin joked that he didn’t want to cry, but his emotions were clear.

Among the standout moments was the cat-themed hand banner, which fans proudly raised with the message “Manila’s love for you will never SWITCH OFF.” This was a nod to Xiumin’s idol personality, which is famously cat-like, playful, mischievous, and full of charm. Fans also prepared a touching surprise: during “Switch Off,” they sang along to create a powerful moment of unity and love, filling the venue with their voices as a tribute to Xiumin’s meaningful solo track.

In addition to these, another big surprise banner appeared, reading “STAY STILL IN THIS MOMENT WITH XIUMIN FOREVER”, further emphasizing the deep connection between Xiumin and his fans. The atmosphere was magical, with glowing butterflies raised during “Love Is U”, creating a Butterfly Forest across the venue. Snowflake-shaped confetti also filled the air, making the entire space feel like a winter wonderland. All of these fan projects, from the heartfelt tributes to the whimsical surprises, showed just how much Xiumin is loved, and Manila proved once again that their support is unwavering.

Xiumin isn’t just a beloved idol; he’s a true jack of all trades. From his impressive acting skills to his solo work and variety show appearances, Xiumin continues to shine in every aspect of the entertainment world. Fans know that his talents know no bounds, and they want nothing more than to see him reach even greater heights in his career. The entire K-pop industry holds its breath, eagerly awaiting the day EXO stands together again as the emperors of K-pop, ready to reclaim their throne. Until that moment, EXO-Ls will continue to support Xiumin every step of the way, knowing that the best is yet to come.

Setlist

Daisy
Brand New
Serenity
Switch Off
WHEE!
Feedback
Can’t Help Myself
Make You LaLa
Lost Paradise
Love is U

Words by Arielle Elep

Special Thanks to Pulp Live World for the invite.