SHINee’s Minho Talks About his Passion and Growth at Manila Press Conference

Ahead of his solo MEAN: of my first show in Manila, SHINee’s Minho sat down with the media to share his thoughts on his career, artistry, and connection with fans.

Since debuting with SHINee in 2008, Choi Minho has been known as “Flaming Charisma,” a title that reflects his energy and drive. But the 33-year-old artist acknowledged that he also has days when his energy runs low.

“There are times when I feel tired, but because of the love and support people give me, when I’m on stage, I look for them. I tell myself, ‘I don’t want to let them down.’ That’s what keeps me going.” Minho

A Special Connection with Fans

Minho took time to thank the fans who attended the press conference.

“Thank you for being my driving force. You are the reason for my passion.”

The concert, titled MEAN: Of My First, was part of his first solo tour, which began in South Korea in November. The tour included stops in Taiwan, Japan, and Macau, with Manila as the final stop.

“I really like the word ‘first’ because it’s meaningful. You have first moments, first experiences,” Minho said, explaining the idea behind the tour’s title.

Reflecting on the experience, he shared, “I never expected to hold a solo concert in the Philippines or anywhere. But because of the love and support from Shawols, this concert happened.”

Minho looked back on his last visit to the Philippines and remembered the love he received from Filipino fans. That support motivated him to prepare a strong closing show for MEAN: Of My First.

Growth as an Artist

Minho said his solo tour helped him see his strengths and weaknesses as an artist.

“It gave me a chance to improve on areas where I could do better, so I could put on the best performances for my fans.”

Discussing the challenges and lessons he gained from the tour, he shared that understanding his strengths and weaknesses helped him prepare better for his shows.

He also spoke about the importance of evolving. Even after 17 years in the industry, he wants to keep showing different sides of himself.

Music and Performance

As a SHINee member, Minho has released an extended play (Chase in 2022) and a full-length album (Call Back in 2024). He has also acted in dramas like To the Beautiful You, Hwarang, and Romance in the House.

“I’ve been in the industry for a long time. Fans have seen many sides of me. I just want to keep creating and showing something new. There are times when I reach my limit. But with the help of my staff, we take things step by step to make these projects happen.”

Minho also talked about his tour setlist and highlighted his unreleased track You’re Right. He explained that the song carries messages he wants to share with Shawols.

Staying True to Himself

When asked about the key to his long career, Minho said, “I think it’s just being honest with myself. Fans appreciate that.”

He added, “I’ll continue to be true to myself, so fans can always see the real me.”

As for the difference between SHINee Minho and solo Minho, he explained

“As a solo artist, I get to do what I like and what suits me best. I choose my own music style. But overall, they aren’t that different.”

Minho reassured fans that there is no real difference between “SHINee’s Minho” and “soloist Minho” because he always gives his all in every performance. However, he acknowledged that his solo projects allow him to explore a music style that feels more personal.

Thoughts on the Philippines

Minho also shared his thoughts on the Philippines, saying he likes the country’s warm weather since he isn’t fond of the cold. He also said his favorite thing about the country is the energy and cheers from Filipino Shawols.

Minho’s Manila concert was the final stop in his MEAN: of my first tour. It marked an important step in his career and a chance to thank fans who have supported him along the way.

Minho’s ‘MEAN: of my first’ in Manila was presented by L-Squared Productions PH.