Reminiscent
of “Train To Busan” movie, as soon as the store opens, scores of Seventeen’s
fans rushed to Pavilion’s center court in a frenzy speed, as if they are being
chased by zombies. I was totally blown
away by Seventeen’s drawing power. By 10.30 am, Carats (Seventeen’s fans) have
fully occupied the concourse. Some arrived as early as 4 am at the mall, just
so to secure the best spot to catch the 13-member boy-band at “Seventeen X The Saem
fan sign” event. The Saem has always utilized the influence of k-pop artistes
to sell their products, where G Dragon, Shinee, Red Velvet were all past
spokesperson. However, the ambience sure doesn’t feel like a brand launch
function. If I hadn’t known better, I would
have envisioned myself at Seventeen’s concert. Carats came armed with freebies
to distribute to fellow supporters, placards, banners, towels.. a few were even
holding edible carrots (carrot rhymes with carat, get it ?). They sang in
unison when Seventeen’s songs blasted in the background…”gomabda…gomabda”(Thanks)
or “cha cha cha” (Clap). The fan chant “Seventeen…Seventeen” during Thanks’
music break really turns up the heat at the venue. I may not be a Carat but I
do like SVT’s songs and their very synchronized dance moves.
The
event was supposed to kick-off at 3 pm but was pushed back till almost 2 hours
later ! A very long wait, considering some have been standing since 10 am but I
guess we shouldn’t be whining since it’s a free k-pop meet & greet session.
When the lads (minus 2 members – one was stuck at the Msian immigration due to
travel documents issues, while another was shooting a reality show in China)
finally made their way to the stage, they were clearly impressed with the
staggering turnout. The guys took turn to say hello to everyone and shared
their fave Saem products. Seventeen is definitely no stranger to Malaysia,
having been to our shores for two full-fledged concerts for two consecutive
years -2017 & 2018 and not forgetting the k-wave show. I was quite surprised with the height of two
members. They sure don’t look that short in their M.V…..LOL. The organizer also prepared a surprise
birthday celebration for Feb birthday boys, Vernon (Leonardo Di Caprio
look-a-look) and DK. As expected,
Seventeen performed the adorable Harakeke dance (which looks a lot like the Gwiyomi
dance gestures) before signing posters for more than 100 lucky winners.
