Back to EXO Planet: EXO turns nostalgia into a spectacle at ‘EXhOrizon in Manila’

More than a decade since first stepping onto the local stage, EXO returns to Manila with ‘EXO PLANET #6: EXhOrizon,’ proving that its connection with Filipino EXO-Ls remains as strong as ever.

The concert features current active members D.O., Kai, Chanyeol, Sehun, and Suho, who welcomed fans back to EXO Planet with a fitting opening number, ‘MAMA.’ The group’s debut track served as a nostalgic introduction to the evening, transporting the audience back to where EXO’s journey began while signaling the start of another memorable chapter shared with its fans.

Throughout the night, the five members balanced electrifying performances with lighthearted moments during their ments, taking time to interact with the audience between sets. Cheers fill the venue as the members greet Filipino fans in Tagalog, saying “Namiss ko kayo” and “Mahal namin kayo,” while even introducing themselves in Filipino. Their playful exchanges and spontaneous banter drew laughter from the crowd, making the massive concert feel surprisingly intimate despite its two-night sold out shows.

EXhOrizon’s setlist spans much of EXO’s discography, seamlessly weaving together fan favorites and more recent releases. The lineup underscores why the group remains one of K-pop’s defining acts, showcasing its signature blend of powerhouse vocals, polished harmonies, commanding stage presence, and dynamic choreography that continues to resonate with audiences years into its career.

One of the evening’s standout moments comes when the members hand the microphones over to EXO-Ls, inviting them to sing along while the group takes a breather seated on the stage. The members jokingly explained that they need a bit of rest since all of them are already in their “trentahin” stage (thirties), teasing that many of their longtime fans are in the same stage of life. The playful exchange reflects the unique relationship EXO shares with its fandom—one that has grown and matured together through the years. Even with the brief pause, the group’s performances remain consistently polished and energetic from start to finish.

The nostalgic atmosphere continues as EXO and EXO-Ls sung ‘Hawak Kamay’ together, revisiting a cherished memory from the group’s performance at the ‘2013 Dream K-pop Fantasy Concert’ in Manila. Chanyeol also surprises fans with a rendition of ‘Raining in Manila,’ recalling the heartfelt performance he delivered during his ‘2024 CHANYEOL LIVE TOUR: City-scape in Manila,’ earning one of the loudest reactions of the night.

As the concert entered its final stretch, the members once again turn the spotlight on their fans by challenging EXO-Ls to perform the choreography to some of the group’s songs. The audience enthusiastically rises to the occasion, transforming the venue into a sea of synchronized dance moves and demonstrating the passion that has long defined the EXO-L community.

EXO wraps up the night with an encore performance of ‘Flatline’ from its latest album, ‘REVERXE,’ bringing one last burst of energy before the final bows. Before leaving the stage, the members assure Filipino EXO-Ls that they will return “as soon as possible,” drawing thunderous cheers from the crowd.

As the final notes fade and confetti rains across the venue, thousands of light sticks remain raised as fans sang along until the very end, reluctant to say goodbye. With heartfelt promises, shared memories, and performances that span more than a decade of music, ‘EXO PLANET #6: EXhOrizon in Manila’ concluded not with a farewell, but with the promise of another reunion between EXO and Filipino EXO-Ls.

EXO PLANET #6: EXhOrizon in Manila was all made possible by PULP Live World.

INQUIRER.net BrandRoom/BD