The Boyz make Manila their playground
“Manila feels like a hometown for me,” Eric of The Boyz declared to a thrilled audience at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. This sentiment wasn’t just lip service; the group made multiple references to their time in the Philippines, including filming the “Lip Gloss” music video. Their connection with the country was further demonstrated when they congratulated gymnast Carlos Yulo on his recent gold medal.
Throughout the concert, the members of The Boyz seamlessly used Filipino phrases, showing a genuine effort to connect with their Filipino fans. They even mastered the trendy “eyy” with shaka hands, using it naturally and effortlessly.
“Kumusta, bestie? Masaya ba kayo? Eyy nga muna. Eyy. Nagagalak akong makita kayo,” Kevin said, further endearing the group to the audience. It was clear that The Boyz had made a point to learn about the Philippines and the culture of their fans.
This was just one aspect of the fan service offered by Sangyeon, Jacob, Younghoon, Hyunjae, Juyeon, Kevin, New, Q, JuHaknyeon, Sunwoo and Eric during their “Zeneration II” concert in Manila, promoted by DNM Entertainment.
Interstellar journey
“Zeneration II” took the audience on an interstellar journey that began in space. The background screens transformed the venue into a spaceship navigating through the universe, with the hyperdrive propelling fans to a destination where 11 shining stars emerged.
The Boyz dazzled in their white costumes as they opened with “Diamond Life,” “Out of Control” and “Maverick.” Mid-performance, they shed their white tops to reveal form-fitting suits, adding to the excitement.
The members transitioned smoothly from performing to flirting with their Deobis (their fandom name). “Deobi, ang ganda niyo. Na-miss niyo ba kami? Me too. The energy is really nice today,” Sunwoo remarked, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
The next songs, “Back All Black” and “Breaking Dawn,” showcased the group’s versatility, blending pop and sensuality. While the first part of the show felt like an otherworldly adventure, the second segment portrayed The Boyz as the ideal first love, with songs like “Complete Me” and “Fantasize,” accompanied by oversized hockey shirts and basketball and baseball jerseys.
They kept the momentum going with “Right Here,” before urging everyone in the seated sections to stand up and join them for the high-energy “Thrill Ride” and “D.D.D.” The tempo slowed down with emotional tracks like “Walkin’ In Time,” “Horizon,” “Survive The Night,” “Back 2 U” and “Hurt Me Less,” giving the audience a brief respite before reigniting the excitement with their new song, “Bite Back.”
Kevin hyped things up during “Watch It” by removing his shirt and showing off his toned body, much to the delight of the crowd. The audience roared in approval, fully immersed in the spectacle that is “Zeneration.”
Showmanship
The concert didn’t skimp on showmanship, with special effects like confetti showers and bursts of smoke and fire enhancing nearly every song. The 11-member group made sure every corner of the stage was covered, creating an immersive experience for the fans. The videos displayed behind them were not just background visuals—they were integral to the storytelling of each performance, projecting life-sized snippets of the members and transporting the audience to various settings, from serene gardens to dystopian cityscapes.
With at least five costume changes and relentless energy, The Boyz kept the crowd engaged throughout the show. Their enjoyment was palpable as they interacted with fans by signing autographs on items handed to them, accepting banners and donning headpieces, all while delivering top-notch vocals and choreography.
By the time they reached the encore with “Nectar” and “Fire Eyes,” the audience was completely captivated, falling in love with The Boyz 11 times over. With such talent and attention to detail, “Zeneration” was a must-see for every K-pop fan—a dazzling embodiment of what K-pop concerts are meant to be.
