Effortlessly charming and endlessly funny, K-Pop star Onew had Jjingus crying and laughing at his GUESS! fanmeet on July 4. The New Frontier Theater sparkled in the famously bright and beautiful pearl aqua colors of the SHINee fandom for the group leader’s first solo world tour since debuting in 2008.

Onew kicked off the evening with “Circle,” the title track from his album of the same name. Performances were few and far between, with Zairo on guitars as the sole accompaniment. He also performed “Sign” and concluded the night with an unreleased track titled “All Day.”

True to its name, the GUESS fanmeet was full of surprises. Segments ranged from sharing TMI of his recent photos and his favorite tunes (Harry Styles’ “As It Was” and SHINee’s “Love Like Oxygen,” both of which he sang snippets of), to drawing the Banaue Rice Terraces and Chocolate Hills, discussing style choices, playing party games, taking on a dance challenge, and sharing personal fun facts.

Onew’s natural humor and playful banter kept the audience entertained throughout the night. At one point, he humorously referred to the green Chocolate Hills as matcha chocolate. When asked to share a message for his Filipino fans, he wittily responded, “I always say be happy, but you’re already happy, so let’s consider this section… nothing.” His contagious enthusiasm was evident from the moment he walked onstage, as he giddily jumped and matched the host’s energy. He even fell to his knees in laughter when asked to say, “Pogi Ako” (I am handsome).

A notable highlight of the evening was the hi-bye session, typically reserved for those with the priciest tickets, which was extended to all attendees regardless of ticket tier. Everyone had a quick second to see Onew’s beautiful eye smile up close.

Onew, along with SHINee, has been in the industry for 15 years, a major feat accompanied by adversities. He recently returned from a year-long health hiatus in April 2024, simultaneously announcing his separation from his long-time label. This fanmeet marked his return to Manila since his last visit in 2017 with SHINee for the One K Global Peace Concert. For Jjingus, his return, no matter how long it takes, is always worth the wait. As their banners proudly declare, “We’re Not Going Anywhere.”