Manila is bracing for a busy month of South Korean pop music this September, with two high-profile girl groups scheduled to perform live concerts, alongside an exclusive fan party hosted by a former boy band member. However, the anticipated lineup has faced a minor setback following the cancellation of a scheduled performance by viral pop act FIFTY FIFTY.
Heading the upcoming arrivals is Babymonster, the newest girl group under YG Entertainment, the influential label behind global sensations 2NE1 and Blackpink. Scheduled for 5 September at the Mall of Asia Arena, the performance marks the group’s inaugural concert in the Philippines since their debut in 2024. Produced by Live Nation Philippines, the Manila leg forms part of their “Choom” world tour, named after their four-track EP released in May.
Fans can expect a six-member lineup featuring Ruka, Pharita, Asa, Ahyeon, Rora, and Chiquita. Main vocalist Rami remains on medical hiatus and will not participate in the upcoming performance. Known for their hip-hop-infused style and strong vocals, the group is set to perform signature tracks such as “Drip,” “We Go Up,” and “Choom.”
Joining the September lineup is STAYC, short for Star to a Young Culture. The six-member group—comprising Sumin, Sieun, Isa, Seeun, Yoon, and J—will bring their “Stay Closer” fan concert tour to the University of the Philippines Theater in Quezon City on 20 September. Presented by CDM Entertainment, this performance marks the group’s return to Manila following their appearance at the Waterbomb Manila festival in February 2025. Debuting in 2020 under High Up Entertainment, founded by hitmakers Black Eyed Pilseung, STAYC has cultivated a massive international following with signature “teen fresh” pop anthems including “ASAP,” “Teddy Bear,” and “Bebe.”
In contrast to the confirmed arrivals, promoter Hello Live announced the cancellation of FIFTY FIFTY’s fan concert, which was originally scheduled for 20 September. Best known for their 2023 global hit “Cupid,” the group’s show was called off following deliberations between event organisers. In a statement posted on X, the promoter expressed regret for the disappointment caused to TWENY, the group’s official fanbase.
Adding to the month’s engagements, former CIX member Kim Seunghun is slated to host a fan party in Pasig City on 22 September. According to updates published on Seunghun’s Instagram account, the venue details will be released exclusively to confirmed ticket holders.
