K-pop group ENHYPEN in a concept photo for the group’s EP ‘Orange Blood.’ Photo: @BELIFTLAB/X

MANILA — When ENHYPEN held a concert in the Philippines last February 2023, the fast-rising K-pop group played three nights at a packed Mall of Asia Arena for its “Manifesto” tour — a testament to the seven-piece act’s popularity in the country.

Exactly a year later, the septet returned for its second “Fate” tour. And while the group only performed for one night, ENHYPEN managed to draw tens of thousands of fans to the bigger New Clark City Stadium in Tarlac, about a two-hour drive away from Manila. 

“That we’re able to meet a lot of ENGENEs in the Philippines makes us very happy. I remember how amazing Filipino ENGENEs’ passion and energy was [from our past visit],” member Sunghoon said in an interview with ABS-CBN News hours before the group’s recent “Fate” concert.

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His bandmate, Heeseung, agreed that the Filipino fans’ enthusiasm was the most memorable part of their previous visit.

“We visit a lot of cities while on tour. What was most memorable [about the Philippines] was the passionate, warm and explosive energy of ENGENEs,” he said.

In just over three years, the septet has managed to become a commercial success. Its most recent EP “Orange Blood,” for instance, reportedly sold over 1.87 million copies in its first week and became the group’s fourth “million-selling” album. 

ENHYPEN has also embarked on two world tours, playing in big venues such as the Tokyo Dome and Kyocera Dome in Japan.

ENHYPEN during the Philippine leg of its ‘Fate’ tour. Photo courtesy of Hybe and Belift Lab

Outside of music, the members have landed endorsement deals with Italian luxury fashion house Prada and Filipino clothing brand Bench.

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Despite all those achievements, the boys have never lost sight of their fans, whom they credit their success to. “I believe that all of those things are possible because of our fans, our ENGENE,” Jake said.

“With all their love and support, we’re able to fill these sort of big venues when we’re doing a concert or we’re able to do the brand [endorsements]. So I want to give a big shoutout to all of our fans for always giving us so much support,” he added.

‘More mature’

At a press conference during their first visit to Manila in late 2022, the members shared that being on tour helps them improve as performers. For the second “Fate” tour, Jungwon said, “We’re back here as a more mature ENHYPEN.”

Specifically, the members no longer feel pressured about hosting concerts, opting instead to have fun with their fans, Jay explained.

ENHYPEN during the Philippine leg of its ‘Fate’ tour. Photo courtesy of Hybe and Belift Lab

“During our previous ‘Manifesto’ tour, it was our first time to go on tour so we were a bit nervous and there was also some pressure to do well,” Jay said.

“But now for our second world tour ‘Fate,’ we’ve gained more experience, so we want to make good memories with our fans while having fun,” he said.

Asked what ENGENEs can expect from the group this 2024, Jake said the team is “preparing a lot.”

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“Besides our album, we’re going to be doing a lot more and we’re going to be traveling a lot more, I feel. So I hope our fans are excited for that,” he said. 

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