K-pop power duo Shownu and Hyungwon of Monsta X are not only celebrating the release of their highly anticipated second unit EP, ‘Love Me,’ but also deeply reflecting on their remarkable journey and the meaning of performing together 11 years into their illustrious career.
This significant EP launch coincides with Monsta X’s monumental 11th anniversary, setting the stage for the group’s ongoing global spectacle, ‘The X: Nexus’ world tour.
Reflecting on their extensive experience, both Shownu and Hyungwon acknowledge a natural evolution in their approach to both music creation and captivating live performances.
“Performing on stage now often feels more relaxed than it did previously,” Shownu revealed. “I believe I’ve matured significantly, and I constantly contemplate how to channel that newfound depth into my stage presence. My focus remains on consistently presenting Monbebe (Monsta X fans) with better, fresher facets of myself.”
Hyungwon attributes Monsta X’s enduring success and remarkable longevity partly to the members’ collective, unwavering commitment to continuously elevating their stage performances.
“Every member shares an intense drive to deliver increasingly powerful performances, which I believe is a cornerstone of our team’s sustained journey,” he explained. “Delivering exceptional live performances is paramount for our dedicated fans. We’re always brainstorming novel approaches to ensure that our audience experiences something fresh and exciting every time they see us, a key factor in why we’ve maintained such a devoted fan base for over a decade.”
When asked to compare his performing experience in his 20s versus his 30s, Shownu chuckled, acknowledging that while his 30s bring physical challenges, they also offer a distinct, evolved appeal.
“Previously, our strength lay in showcasing sheer energy and dynamism,” Shownu elaborated. “Now, it’s exhilarating to compete with a deeper sense of aura, maturity, and a more profound sensuality in our stage presence.”
Hyungwon, on the other hand, expresses a preference for his 30s, citing a greater sense of personal stability.
“Reflecting on my 20s before my military service, I realized I harbored no regrets,” Hyungwon shared. “While not every outcome brought complete satisfaction, I felt I had lived authentically. I strive to approach my 30s with the same mindset, and I appreciate the increased comfort and ease I’ve found within myself.”
For both artists, connecting with their dedicated fanbase remains the paramount objective for the upcoming year, whether through Monsta X group activities, their dynamic unit performances, or vibrant festival stages. Following successful concerts across Asia, Monsta X is set to electrify audiences in Latin America this June and North America in October as part of their expansive world tour.
As Monsta X meticulously plans their extensive future tours, the celebrated duo expresses immense gratitude for the opportunity to revisit cities they haven’t graced in years.
“Many of these tour stops are cities we haven’t visited in seven or even eight years,” Shownu remarked. “Meeting our beloved fans there after such a prolonged period, my aim is simply to have an unforgettable time and create lasting memories with them, without any regrets.”
Adding another exciting highlight, Shownu X Hyungwon are also slated to ignite the stage at the popular Waterbomb Festival on July 25th.
“There’s a significant distinction between experiencing us on screen and witnessing our live performance in person,” Hyungwon stated. “I truly believe our unit’s unique energy and captivating charm are amplified exponentially in a live setting. My hope is that through dynamic festival stages, such as Waterbomb, an even wider audience will discover and embrace our distinct appeal.”
