Mean: of My First. Say it fast and it sounds like "Minho, my first." That's exactly what Minho is—my first K-pop love. So, here's a quick story time: I initially encountered Choi Minho in the K-drama, Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth, but it took the COVID-19 pandemic for me to discover that the caramel-skinned Adonis was more than just a respected actor. He was, and still is, a quintessential part of the K-pop group SHINee. The guy was responsible for serving looks, spitting rhymes, and rounding out songs with his rich, low tone.
As a baby Shawol (the fandom's name), I started listening to SHINee's tracks in early 2021 and got hooked on their contemporary R&B style. It was my kind of music—danceable, experimental songs and emotive ballads that were always backed by impressive harmonies. But more than just their music and impactful music videos (MVs), I fell in love with their naturally funny personalities. I remember watching countless YouTube compilation videos, enjoying how Minho and his bandmates—namely Onew, Jonghyun, Key, and Taemin—bantered like crazies.
Since I discovered SHINee late, I've regretted not being able to see them when they visited the Philippines back in 2009 and 2017. To make up for it, I promised to support their upcoming projects in Manila. From attending Begin Again: KPOP Edition in 2022 where Key was part of the lineup (and my very first K-pop concert!) to Onew's GUESS! fan meet, I was present at all of the members' Philippine tours—collecting core memories for my fangirl self.
Minho's Much-Awaited Comeback
Minho returning to Manila in 2025 is a huge win for Filo Shawols and Flamers (a nickname for his solo fans taken from his own "Flaming Charisma" moniker.) At the media conference arranged by L-Squared Productions, Inc., Minho shared that Mean: of My First holds a lot of meaning for him since it's his first solo con. "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," the K-pop idol told his fans.
Learning about the meaning of kilig, the singer admitted to getting butterflies in his stomach while prepping to show Shawols his performances—some of which include songs from his first full-length album, CALL BACK, as well as his previous singles and EP, CHASE. He said the kilig feeling intensifies when he receives screams and cheers from the fans.
Accompanied by his band and dancers who have toured around South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and Macau, Minho promised to deliver many explosive performances at his solo concert finale. (More on that later!) He told fans to look forward to hearing his unreleased song, "Your Light." The lyrics are extra meaningful for him since these have a special message for Shawols.
Additionally, the charming idol mentioned that "Prove It" is a song he would dedicate to his fans. Since the concert was formed because of the fans' love and support, it's his way of saying, "We've made it. We've proven that we can do it."
Flaming Hot Performances
As a self-proclaimed hot weather lover, Minho brought the heat to the New Frontier Theater when he stepped on stage clad in a black see-through mesh top and leather pants. He opened the show with smooth, sensual tracks, "Would You Mind" and "Affection," undoubtedly winning the hearts of the predominantly female audience. A bonus: Seeing slivers of his very toned abs as he grooved to the music!
Aside from acting like a yearning lover, Minho brought many other fun personas to the stage. Shawols welcomed the energetic boy-next-door with "Fireworks," "Round Kick," and "Call Back." A charming prince in an all-white ensemble emerged for slower tunes such as "Prove It," "I'm Home," and "Stay for a Night."
When a hooded Minho appeared for "Heartbreak," I was ecstatic. It's a song I never get tired of listening to because of the way he effortlessly expresses melancholy. The bridge even had a powerful dance break that surprisingly transitioned to "Something About U"—a highlight of the night! Shawols were treated to Minho's pandesal abs and well-sculpted pecs midway through the track. Jaws literally dropped to the floor and the shrieks were deafening until the end.
For the encore, Minho didn't forget to pay tribute to his roots. He performed a medley of SHINee's "View" & "Body Rhythm" and even threw his cap and official concert jersey to the crowd! His happiness was off the roof as he screamed, "Are you guys [having] fun? [Did you] enjoy tonight? Me too!" Promising to come back again to Manila, he closed his finale concert with the heartfelt "Your Light" and a hopeful rendition of "Choice."
After seeing him twice in the flesh, I can confirm that Minho is aging like fine wine. His unwavering passion influences everything he does—trying new things (he debuted as a stage actor in 2024 and has even gotten into ballet), working out on a daily basis to stay in great shape, and releasing carefully curated music that shows his true colors.
I feel that the K-pop star still has a lot of untapped potential with the musical genres he can pursue as a solo artist but his strong vocal and dance training from SM Entertainment easily proves how far he's come from being the gangly, doe-eyed 16-year-old that sang a few lines in "Replay." With close to 17 years of experience under his belt, he has transformed into a lovable, confident crooner who uses his versatile voice and masculine physique to tell his unique story on stage.
As a Shawol and Flamer, I have no doubt that Minho will shine brightly for years to come. He will always have a special place in my heart as my first and ultimate bias.
Watch our full coverage of Minho's MEAN: of My First 2025 concert in Manila here:
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Special thanks to L-Squared Productions PH.
