Se So Neon, the dynamic indie trio hailing from South Korea, marked their historic debut in Manila on November 18 at the Filinvest Tent, courtesy of Karpos Live.

The evening was a whirlwind of musical excellence, as Se So Neon enchanted the Filipino audience with their unique sound and captivating stage presence.

The concert commenced with a powerful opening, featuring the songs “joke!” and “E.” To their pleasant surprise, So Yoon and the band were met with an enthusiastic response from the crowd, who not only knew their songs but sang along with fervor. So Yoon, visibly moved, paused during the performance, breaking into a huge smile as she soaked in the harmonious collaboration between the band and the audience.

The setlist was a diverse selection of Se So Neon’s discography, including tracks like “Stranger,” “Go Back,” and “NAN CHUN.” Each song resonated with the audience, creating a captivating atmosphere that transcended language barriers.

Between sets, the members engaged in heartfelt ment sessions, providing insights into their music and expressing gratitude for the warm reception in Manila. The highlight of the introduction was a mesmerizing showcase of their instruments, where the audience witnessed the undeniable talent of So Yoon on guitar, Park Hyunjin on bass, and Usu on drums. In a light-hearted moment, Hyunjin and Usu revealed their affinity for banana chips, adding a touch of humor and relatability to the performance.

So Yoon expressed her awe and appreciation for the vibrant energy of the Filipino audience, stating that it was Se So Neon’s first time in Manila, but they were already captivated by the warmth and enthusiasm of their Filipino fans.

The performance continued with hits like “Gurumi,” “Dong,” “Ung,” and “Summer Plumage,” captivating the audience with the band’s distinctive sound. The energy in the venue remained palpable, with fans singing and dancing throughout the night.

The concert reached its zenith with the performances of “3 Revolution,” “Athena,” and “The Wave,” showcasing Se So Neon’s versatility and musical prowess. The crowd’s enthusiasm reached new heights as they reveled in the infectious beats and captivating melodies.

Closing out the main set with “Kidd,” “NOW,” “Midnight Train,” “Jayu,” and “A Long Dream,” Se So Neon left the audience yearning for more. The band graciously returned to the stage for an encore, treating fans to the soul-stirring tunes of “New Youth” and “Winter.”

The concert concluded with a deafening roar of applause, marking the end of a night that will linger in the memories of Manila’s music enthusiasts. Se So Neon’s first concert in the city was a testament to their musical prowess and the universal language of music that transcends borders. The palpable energy from the audience, singing and dancing throughout the night, solidified Se So Neon’s place in the hearts of Filipino fans, ensuring a lasting legacy in the Manila music scene.

Words by Patricia Ysabel; Photos by Arielle Elep

Special thanks to Karpos Live and Karpos Multimedia