"Louder Than The World Cup": Red Velvet Were Full Of Praise For Their 1st Philippines Solo Concert Crowd

After nearly nine years since their debut and three visits to Manila for other festivals, Red Velvet finally held their first solo concert in the Philippines, much to the delight of their extremely devoted fans. The sold-out event, part of the group’s R to V tour, showcased the girls’ versatility as they performed a mix of b-sides and title track hits at the Mall of Asia Arena on May 7.

Although lead vocalist Joy was unable to join the concert due to health reasons, Red Velvet kicked off the nearly three-hour show with a performance of their March 2022 single, “Feel My Rhythm.” The group then treated the crowd to a range of b-sides, highlighting the diverse discography that Red Velvet is known for. Songs like “Bamboleo,” “On A Ride,” and the urban pop track “LP” were met with enthusiastic responses from the audience.

The members also delivered extended performances of “Pose,” complete with a runway-like intro, and the crowd-favorite “Bad Boy,” which featured individual dance showcases. The encores included the songs “Celebrate,” “My Dear,” and the viral hit “Russian Roulette,” ending with an electrifying performance of “Zimzalabim” and b-side track “You Better Know,” which garnered rave reviews from both the members and the crowd.

ngl, if i wasnt a luvie 15k people in a full housed arena were chanting ZIMZALABIM at the top of their lungs, i would get scared and think they're cursing my entire bloodline HAhahahaha

WE DID IT PH LUVIES. THANK YOU @RVsmtown @pulpliveworld #RtoVinMANILA #REDVELVETinMNL2023 pic.twitter.com/Tmh5oj8MhF

— M J ✨️ (@sooyoily) May 7, 2023

Filipino Reveluvs (Red Velvet fans) went all out to show their support, with someone even dressing up as Yeri‘s character from her web drama Blue Birthday. Another fan brought a hand-painted version of Irene memes that elicited laughter from the members during their ment. Red Velvet couldn’t help but express their awe at the sold-out crowd, with leader Irene stating that the energy was “louder than a World Cup audience.” She commended the fans for their unwavering enthusiasm and gave a thumbs-up gesture, acknowledging their strong presence.

You have such a strong energy, and I can’t even surpass it. Good job!

— Red Velvet’s Irene

i love irene so much 🥹🫂 her smile and thumbs up 🥹🫶 #RtoVinManila pic.twitter.com/HMjig7eOOZ

— 🎂 (@baechurenes) May 7, 2023

Yeri and Seulgi expressed their gratitude and promised to cherish the memories of the concert. Yeri thanked the Philippines, remarking on the incredible energy of the crowd, while Seulgi mentioned the video trucks and tarpaulins made by fans, expressing her happiness and love for the country.

I saw the video trucks outside. The tarpaulins you made, I was very happy. We will go home to Korea with a lot of good memories with you guys. I love you so much Philippines!

— Red Velvet’s Seulgi

QUEENDOM by Manila crowd ft. Red Velvet 😭😭😭#REDVELVETinMNL2023 pic.twitter.com/26HxyrPfnR

— wan 🌸 SPICY 🌶️ (@naevistagram) May 7, 2023

Despite Joy’s absence, the fans made sure her presence was felt by organizing a fan-made light ocean in her representative color, green. Clips of Joy singing her parts on screen were met with resounding cheers as the Filipino audience showed their unwavering support. Wendy also made sure to thank the fans for their love and support, not only for the present members but also for Joy.

Thank you very much for all the love and support. She’s not here with us today but [thank you] even [for the love and support] for Joy, and thank you so much for this little thing you prepared for us today, and little events that you prepared, huge events (banners) over there that you guys prepared and change every time.

— Red Velvet’s Wendy