MANILA — Itzy has only been around for nearly 10 months but the Korean girl group has proven that it is an act to keep an eye on.

In such a short amount of time and with just 2 singles, the girls have ranked high on global music charts, amassed a hundred million views on YouTube for their music videos, were named rookie of the year and best new female act in 6 different award shows, and embarked on a world tour.

Another testament to the Itzy's popularity was the sold-out show that the group held at the New Frontier Theater in Quezon City on Sunday, which also marked the first time that the 5-piece act performed in the country.

Even before the show began, the boisterous crowd was already singing along and reciting “fan chants” to the girls’ songs. The cheers amplified by the time Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong and Yuna took the stage, kicking off the show with their sophomore single “Icy,” followed by “It’z Summer.”

With only 5 songs under their belt, the girls managed to stretch the show to a good 2 hours by spending a significant amount of time answering questions and doing dares from fans, and playing games, much to the delight of the crowd.

It was refreshing to see the members let loose during the question-and-answer and game segments. Their playfulness and willingness to act goofy was a far cry from the fierce and sassy personas they take on when they perform.

The girls’ enthusiasm was matched by the audience’s loud sing-alongs and random screams of devotion. Towards the end of the show, Lia thanked Filipino fans for their energy, which she said “made such a strong impression.”

Fans also greeted and sang for Yuna, who celebrates her birthday on December 9. The gesture had the group’s youngest member (or “maknae” in K-pop jargon) in tears.

“This is the first time I’ve been greeted so many times for my birthday,” said Yuna.

“I hope this is a special day for you because this is a special day for me,” she told the audience.

The girls also paid homage to their senior label-mates at JYP Entertainment by performing Twice’s “TT” and GOT7’s “Hard Carry.”

Itzy capped the night with a set comprised of the spunky “Want It?” and its debut song “Dalla Dalla.”

Itzy’s showcase in Manila was produced by PULP Live World and JYP Entertainment.