On September 7, EXO's Xiumin, South Korean singer Punch, and 'Street Woman Fighter 2' crew Wolf'Lo graced the stage at the 'Korea Travel Fiesta 2024' (organized by Korea Tourism Organization Manila Office),'a commemoration of Korea and the Philippines' 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations. The two-day event also features talk shows, booths, travel deals and discounts, and more. 

Punch first performed on the stage, showcasing her soothing performances of the hit OSTs "Say Yes," "Stay With Me," "Everytime," and "Another Day." After performing, she talked about wanting to try freediving in the Philippines. Punch also shared her love for mangoes: "I like mangoes so much. Every time I visit the Philippines, I feel so happy that I can have them. I think mango is the best." 

"I didn't expect to meet a lot of you today," said Punch. "I was happy performing here. Thank you for singing along."

Next on the stage was the headliner of the day, Xiumin. "First of all, every time I visit here, I always make good memories," he said. Xiumin also teased a new solo album coming. "I actually participated in a drama, and I also started to get ready for my solo album."

When asked which activity Xiumin enjoys most during the winter, he answered that he enjoys skiing. He also recommended trying snow sledding and skating. The artist was also asked about his recent activity or bonding with his loved ones. Xiumin revealed that before his debut, he traveled with his family here and there. However, after debuting, as he got busy, he wasn't able to frequently do such activities with his family, and the only moment he was able to do so was before starting his mandatory military service. "I visited Jeju Island with my family," he shared.

Xiumin also mentioned his fellow members during his segment. "You know that EXO members are working hard these days, right?" he said. Currently, their leader Suho is on tour, Baekhyun and Chanyeol recently released their solo projects, and D.O. just held his fan concert in Manila a week ago. 

He delivered energetic performances of his solo tracks "Brand New," "Feedback," and "Serenity." "Thank you so much for inviting me to this special event," said Xiumin.

Check out some photos of XIUMIN, PUNCH, and WOLF'LO below!

[Photos by Sofia Sayson]

XIUMIN

PUNCH

WOLF'LO

[Photos by Sofia Sayson]

Discover South Korea Like Never Before As KTO Manila Kicks Off Korea Travel Fiesta 2024

In celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Korea, the
Korean Tourism Organization (KTO) Manila Office officially staged the Korean Travel Fiesta 2024, a two
day celebration at the Glorietta Activity Center and Palm Drive Activity Center in Makati City that invites
Filipinos to witness and experience a vibrant showcase of Korea’s tourism and culture.

At the heart of the celebration were different zones that offered immersive and interactive experience
showcasing Korean culture. Attendees were free to explore the different booths and activities to
discover more of what makes Korea special. The featured zones included the K-Travel Zone, which
offered essential travel information for anyone looking to visit Korea; the K-Activity Zone, which
provided an authentic Korean experience for attendees to taste Korean cuisine, try on Hanbok, learn
history, and enjoy various K-pop and K-beauty themed activities; and the Kids Zone, which featured a
fun and engaging creative space for younger attendees to enjoy DIY activities like handicraft making of
K-themed keychains and hairclips.

Aside from the themed booths, the event also featured exhibitors such as airlines, travel agencies,
regional tourism organizations, tour attractions, telecommunication companies, and banks, which all
showcased their various offerings for attendees planning their next trip to Korea.

The two-day event kicked off with a lively performance from KTO’s very own Kingdom Friends
characters featuring Hojong, Mugo, and Kawoo, setting the tone for the weekend’s festivities. Guests
were also treated to appearances and performances from various artists from the Philippines and Korea.
Running Man PH mainstays Glaiza De Castro, Kokoy De Santos, and Buboy Villar graced the stage for a
talk show where they shared their experiences in the program and visit in Korea. A performance from
the Korean musical CHEF came next, which featured a comedic and impressive fusion of beatboxing and
breakdancing centered around Korea’s bibimbap dish.

Actress and comedian Melai Cantiveros-Francisco also made an appearance for her talk show discussing
family tourism, which was followed by live performances from Korean artists: PUNCH, known as the
voice of various K-drama soundtracks, serenaded guests with her sweet voice; Korean hip-hop dance
team WOLF’LO treated audiences to an exhilarating performance; and K-pop singer Xiumin from EXO
shared some tips and recommendations for hopeful travelers planning to visit Korea before performing
his energetic songs.

The Korea Travel Fiesta 2024 also featured a slew of activities, including demos to engage attendees
such as personal color, makeup and hair demonstration sessions led by Korean experts, and various
challenges such as the Spicy Ramen Challenge, Blindfold Make-up Challenge, and K-pop Random Play
Dance that included participation from attendees.

As Filipinos prepare for their overseas trips for the holidays, the Korea Travel Fiesta aims to promote and
showcase the charm of Korea’s magical winter, offering attendees an opportunity to gain a deeper
understanding of Korean culture and society.