WISH GRANTED: NCT WISH charms Manila with fun-filled 'LOGin' Concert

K-pop group NCT WISH proved that not only genies can make wishes come true. True to their name, the six-member group granted every Czennie’s wish with a concert packed with fun, energy, and heartwarming moments — the kind fans will treasure forever (and not just melt inside their pocket).

The NCT WISH “LOGin” show in Manila wasn’t your typical songs-and-dance concert. Instead, it brought the audience into a gaming-inspired adventure, as the group invited Manila Wishzens to “LOG in” with them — evoking childlike joy and letting fans escape reality, even just for a night.

The Japan-focused subgroup of the K-pop boy band NCT kicked off their first-ever Philippine concert on 12 April at the New Frontier Theater with a thrilling performance of their debut single WISH, followed by fan-favorite Steady, the title track of their first extended play. Both songs showcased their smooth harmonies and tight vocal control — a strong opening that set the tone for the night.

Consisting of Sion, Riku, Yushi, Jaehee, Ryo, and Sakuya, NCT WISH — who debuted in February 2024 — is a subunit of NCT, the 25-member boy group known for its limitless concept.

Although primarily marketed as a Japan-focused group, with four Japanese members and two Koreans, the sextet also actively promotes in South Korea, releasing songs in both Korean and Japanese.

Produced by IME Philippines, the show was packed with fun, including interactive games where members picked between two K-pop songs. Fans were then asked to vote for their choice by cheering — a playful segment that blurred the lines between audience and performers.

The winning songs — TAP by Taeyong, Smoothie by NCT DREAM, and KISSING YOU by SNSD — were performed with energy and charm, showing off the group’s vocal flexibility and dynamic stage presence.

They also brought plenty of fan service, performing their own tracks like Supercute and 3 Minutes with playful expressions and vibrant energy.

Then came the surprise: the members hopped on the viral “Daleng Dale” dance on stage — not once, but twice — sending the crowd into a frenzy with their Pinoy energy and bear ear headbands.

Midway through the show, Sion and Yushi gave fans a sneak peek of the choreography for their comeback track POPPOP, which officially dropped as part of their second mini album of the same name on 14 April.

The boys showed a more nostalgic side with covers of Miracle by Super Junior and EUSHA EUSHA by Shinhwa, proving their vocal strength and infectious joy that had fans dancing along.

They didn’t miss the chance to win over hearts with Filipino phrases like “crush na crush kita,” “mahal kita,” “na-miss namin kayo,” and “salamat po.”

After charming the audience with their cuteness, the stage heated up as they rolled out powerful performances of “Touchdown,” “CHOO CHOO,” “NASA,” and “Melt Inside My Pocket.” Their fierce execution, synchronized movements, and stable live vocals proved their versatility as artists.

While their teamwork shone through group stages, each member brought his own appeal. Sion impressed with his powerful dance moves and magnetic charisma that had fans shouting “Pogi!” Riku commanded the stage with cool, confident raps while showing a softer side during fan interactions. Yushi’s sharp dance lines affirmed his status as main dancer, while his angelic vocals captivated the crowd. Jaehee, the main vocal, delivered standout adlibs and flawless high notes. Ryo balanced cute visuals with solid singing and dancing. Sakuya, the youngest, showcased refined rap skills that belied his age.

During “Make You Shine,” the members visibly enjoyed the moment as fans sang and jumped along, creating a beautiful synergy. Sakuya shared how the Manila crowd’s cheers erased their nerves and fueled their energy. Jaehee, in a heartfelt moment, said, “I’ve always believed that what you do is important, but who you do it with matters more. Performing on stage with my five members, and with all of you in the audience, made it even more meaningful.”

As the concert neared its end, emotional performances of “Tears Are Falling” and “Our Adventure” expressed their deep affection for fans. Ryo thanked the crowd and said he hopes to perform one day at the Philippine Arena.

Fans also surprised Yushi with a birthday song, making him almost in tears. “I didn’t expect that you’d actually celebrate with me,” he said, “but we’ll come back to make even better memories.”

In his final message, Jaehee promised they would return to the Philippines, no matter what. With their raw talent, charm, and genuine connection with fans, NCT WISH proved that even as rookies, they’re capable of delivering an unforgettable concert experience — one fans will hold dear for years to come.