Why PH still makes Choi Min-ho’s ‘heart flutter’

One thing you can expect from K-pop idols visiting the Philippines is that they always deliver.

And Choi Min-ho was no different, bringing his A-game the moment he stepped onstage for his first solo fan meet in Manila called “Best Choi’s Minho: Lucky Choi’s” at SM Mall of Asia Arena last Jan. 28.

With his distinctive vocals, intricate choreography and polished dance moves, Min-ho—a member of the popular pop boy band Shinee—displayed a level of artistry and precision achieved through years of training.

Despite his talent and success, the 31-year-old artist remains unassuming. At one point, he even admitted to feeling nervous about performing in front of his fans.

“To be honest, while I was preparing for this, I was really nervous and excited at the same time,” he said, after performing “Chase,” the title track of the EP he released last year. “And now that I was able to show you my performance, it’s an unforgettable memory for me.”

Ideal place to run away to

Min-ho, also known as “Flaming Charisma,” has explored various destinations both for work and leisure. But he still considers the Philippines as the perfect destination to run away to.

Having been here several times, Min-ho said he enjoys “the hot summer and hot weather,” adding that the country has so much to offer, including “great food and friendly people.” This, he said, makes the Philippines the best place to visit.

The K-pop idol expressed his excitement about returning to the Philippines for the first time in six years. He says it still makes his heart flutter. “I’m very glad that the [Philippines was the] first country [I visited] after my first fan meeting in Seoul.”

Asked where he would like to take Filipino “Shawols”—the term for SHINee fans—Min-ho immediately answered “Seoul,” specifically “Kwangya,” a place where fans can get their idols’ albums and merchandise and interact with them via virtual reality.

The idol-actor recommended trying famous Korean dishes like kimbap and samgyeopsal, as well as visiting the self-photo studio “Life Four Cuts.” “It’s a trending photo booth in South Korea where you can take four pictures, choose four pictures, and print them right away,” he explained.

Charming personality

Min-ho delighted his fans with his charming personality and musical talent as he performed some of his popular songs.

In the nearly two-hour show mounted by Ovation Productions, he engaged in fun game segments where lucky fans won an unreleased photo card. He also had heartwarming interactions with the fan club, the SHINee World, and put on unique performances tailored for the Philippine audience.

One highlight of the show was Min-ho’s performance of the traditional folk dance Pandanggo while wearing a barong Tagalog—his way of honoring the Philippines. And with his captivating moves, he easily won the hearts of the audience.

Aside from music, Min-ho is also known for his roles in such Korean dramas as “The Fabulous,” “To the Beautiful You” and “Hwarang.” He showed off his acting chops by reenacting some iconic scenes and channeling the characters Jang Uk and Captain Yoo from the hit series “Alchemy of Souls” and “Descendants of the Sun,” respectively.

Min-ho also impressed everyone with his version of Sarah Geronimo’s latest viral hit “Dati Dati.” He learned the dance steps by watching a fan, but he pulled them off effortlessly.

Sea of pearl aqua

His love and appreciation for his fans was evident throughout the show. “You’re my hope,” said Min-ho, who promised to return with the other members of SHINee—Onew, Key and Taemin—in the future.

He wished his fans good health and vowed to work hard as an actor and performer. “Until then, I hope you all stay healthy. I love you, Philippines! Saranghae! See you again!” Min-ho said, as he bid farewell.

His fans hope he remembers the sea of Filipino Shawols tirelessly waving their light sticks that illuminated the venue with pearl aqua light—a display of love and genuine appreciation for their idol.