The K-Pop scene rarely sleeps, and every so often, it explodes with excitement over a major event. Last weekend, Hanoi experienced just that. EXO’s Xiumin graced the stage at the My Dinh National Stadium for his solo concert “Beyond,” leaving fans breathless with his charisma, powerful vocals, and surprise guest appearances.
Xiumin, known affectionately as “ Xiu-papa” by EXO-Ls (EXO’s fandom name) for his gentle nature and caring demeanor, has always been admired for his stable vocals and smooth dance moves. However, his solo debut marked a turning point in his career. “Beyond” showcased Xiumin’s artistic growth and versatility, seamlessly blending captivating performances of his hit singles with poignant ballads that tugged at the heartstrings.
The night commenced with a dazzling display of pyrotechnics and a thunderous roar from the crowd as Xiumin appeared on stage dressed in a sleek, silver outfit. Opening with his energetic track “Brand New,” he immediately set the tone for an unforgettable evening. The choreography was intricate yet mesmerizing, highlighting Xiumin’s dance prowess. He effortlessly transitioned between powerful moves and graceful flourishes, captivating every eye in the stadium.
The concert wasn’t just a visual spectacle; it was a journey through emotions. From the soulful rendition of “Feedback” to the heart-wrenching ballad “Call Me,” Xiumin showcased his vocal range and control. The audience was visibly moved by his raw emotion and vulnerability during these songs, their cheers morphing into heartfelt singalongs.
Midway through the concert, a hush fell over the stadium as a familiar figure emerged from backstage. Baekhyun, fellow EXO member and renowned vocalist, surprised everyone with a guest appearance. Together, they delivered an electrifying performance of “Love Shot,” one of EXO’s most popular hits, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
Baekhyun’s surprise wasn’t the only highlight of the evening. Xiumin took time to interact with fans, reading out heartfelt messages from the audience and playfully teasing them in Korean.
He even invited a lucky fan onstage for a dance-off, creating a moment of pure joy and laughter that will be remembered by everyone present.
Beyond the music and stage presence, what truly resonated with the audience was Xiumin’s genuine warmth and humility.
His interactions with fans felt authentic and heartfelt, making everyone feel like they were part of something special.
Xiumin’s Journey: From EXO Member to Solo Artist
Xiumin’s journey to solo stardom is a testament to his dedication and talent. Debuting in 2012 as the eldest member of EXO, he quickly captured hearts with his soothing vocals and charming personality. As part of EXO, he achieved phenomenal success, earning countless awards and captivating millions of fans worldwide.
However, Xiumin never stopped pursuing his individual artistic growth. He actively participated in musicals like “The Three Musketeers” and “Hadestown,” showcasing his acting skills and vocal versatility. In 2019, he released his first solo single “You” which marked the beginning of his journey as a solo artist.
“Beyond,” however, represents a significant milestone in Xiumin’s career. The concert demonstrated his evolution as a performer, captivating audiences with a diverse setlist that showcased both his vocal prowess and artistic growth.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Xiumin?
Following the success of “Beyond,” expectations are high for what Xiumin will do next. Will he release new music soon?
Will we see him in another musical or drama? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Xiumin has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the K-Pop industry. His dedication to his craft and genuine connection with fans are sure to lead him to even greater heights.
While we wait for what’s next, let’s relive the magic of “Beyond” and celebrate the incredible talent that is Kim Minseok, aka Xiumin.