Five out of 12 EXO members defend their title as 'Kings of K-pop' at final 'EXhOrizon' concert

On November 8, five members of the iconic K-pop group EXO took the stage at Seoul’s KSPO Dome to wrap up their sixth concert tour, “EXhOrizon.” The event marked both the beginning and the end of a journey that spanned seven months, 27 shows, and 14 regions, reaffirming the group's enduring influence in the industry despite a reduced lineup.

Originally debuting nearly 15 years ago as a 12-member ensemble, EXO’s current live presence includes Suho, D.O., Chanyeol, Sehun, and Kai. Their performance at the KSPO Dome, the same venue where the tour commenced in April, drew an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 33,000 fans, many of whom have supported the band since its inception.

The concert opened with a dramatic entrance featuring the group’s latest single from their album “Reverxe,” which debuted earlier this year. The members descended amid a visual spectacle that included a crown-shaped electronic display, symbolizing their long-held title as the “Kings of K-pop.” Kai, known in the group’s fictional lore for his teleportation ability, led the audience through a retrospective setlist highlighting key hits that have defined EXO’s career.

The performance showcased a blend of vocal skill and synchronized choreography that fans have come to expect from the group. Tracks such as “Monster” and “Tempo” demonstrated not only their vocal maturity but also their physical stamina, with the members executing complex dance routines flawlessly.

Despite initial fan concerns over the absence of certain main vocalists, Suho and D.O. effectively managed the demanding vocal parts, including high-pitched sections that had worried followers. The band’s cohesive energy remained undiminished, underscoring their professional commitment and adaptability.

A notable segment of the concert, dubbed “Club Time,” transformed the arena into a celebratory dance party, with classic hits like “Lucky One” and “Power” eliciting spirited participation from the crowd. The high-energy song “Run” was performed three times at the fans’ insistence, with the members energetically engaging with the audience through jumping and running across the stage.

Throughout the evening, EXO maintained close interaction with their fanbase, known as EXO-L, inviting sing-alongs and sharing moments of humor and gratitude. The set list also included seasonal fan favorites such as “Sing for You” and “The First Snow,” providing a warm contrast to the colder weather outside.

As the concert approached its conclusion, songs from their early years like “History” and “Growl” were performed, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that bridged their beginnings with their present achievements. The encore featured a selection of tracks from recent albums, closing the tour on a note of reflection and anticipation for future projects.

Members expressed heartfelt appreciation for the ongoing support from fans and hinted at upcoming unit activities, notably from Sehun and Kai. The group’s eighth studio album, “Reverxe,” released earlier this year, has been commercially successful, securing their eighth million-selling record, an indicator of their sustained popularity.

The final night of the “EXhOrizon” tour was not just a concert but a testament to EXO’s resilience and evolution in the competitive world of K-pop. As they promised to return with renewed vigor, the band solidified their legacy in the genre, continuing to captivate audiences with their artistry and dedication according to reports by koreajoongangdaily.joins.com.