GOING SEVENTY! SAY THE NAME!

Pre-script: Late upload. Composed this few months ago... 

GOING SEVENTY!!!

Okay, so here's the catch.

I think I have written an essay about my journey slipping into the diamond life of Seventeen. I stanned them knowing someday, they will all be making a very big decision that might change their future and the group's future.

And I did said no matter what decisions they make, I will wholeheartedly accepts it.

The fact that Seventeen has 13 members, few individual activities until recently, each member opening up their instagram accounts and being active here and there, I thought the toughest decision must be coming near. After all, only a year away before the Kpop jinx comes into effect.

I had always adored Seventeen's friendship and bond. Even though at times when watching their reality show 'Going Seventeen', I thought one or two members must be deeply hurt inside when the other members teased them. I thought, at one point, that bond would wore out and reached its limits.

Remember how I wrote in my first essay I wanted to see how far can their rings bring them together and their bond bring them to the future even beyond their idol image; I knew back then, I was hoping more. I was hoping that everything about their rings and bonds were not mere company business.

As I watched them everyday, my hope is seeing light. I started to trust their trusts for each other.

Like I said before, I am a second generation fan. My greatest heartbreak was Jessica leaving Girls Generation so suddenly that I lost focus during my Nursing review days. So is 2NE1 being on long hiatus and suddenly, Minzy left the group then a year after, the total disbandment of the group. 

For the case of 2NE1, I knew from the very start the disbandment would come. But more than the disbandment, I looked into how they would still be together and treat each other as sisters.

AND I WASN'T WRONG.

THE 2NE1 MEMBERS DID HAVE A STRONGER BOND BEYOND THEIR GROUP'S NAME AND FAME.

Everytime I saw their mini interactions and still celebrating their debut anniversary each year, I am astounded. You can agree or disagree with me on this but you can't deny YG is one of the best company to let their previous artists who left the company but can still use their fame and their original group's name no matter what they do and where they do it.

As for SNSD, I am still happy that they also celebrates their anniversary despite three members leaving SM but it will never be the same. I am happy for an OT8 but I will be happier if it is an OT9. No matter how I try to understand, it seemed Jessica was never been there in the first place. A lot may get angry on me with this one but seeing them celebrating it together as 8 members and the members only mentioning Girls Generation as 8 membered group, I can't help but be sad and the same time, mad. Up until now and even maybe in the future, I would never know the reason why SNSD never mentions her already.

Then another heartbreak in the midst of the pandemic, the group I never imagined would disband, disbanded. 

And yes, I am talking about GFRIEND. 

They were immensely popular, they were part of HYBE, they've been very active together before the news broke out. Then suddenly, Weverse announced, GFRIEND is disbanding. 

I still don't know the reason behind, I thought they have big plans coming up, then BUDDIES were devastated APPLE would be the last title track.

After GFriend's disbandment, I grew anxious about Seventeen's future. After all, GFriend was considered as Seventeen's sister. What if 'Ready to Love' would also be the last one?

I admit I wasn't ready. I thought I would be ready no matter what, but it seemed I wasn't. 

Then suddenly Weverse notified, 'ALL 13 MEMBERS RE-SIGNED THEIR CONTRACT'. 

I HAD TO ACTUALLY READ IT THRICE. 

Weverse could have use other terms rather than RE-SIGN. Every English Carat like me really interpreted this in a whole different meaning before we finally understood it. 

Weverse, I beg you, next time please use RENEW!

But despite the confusion, I was greatly relieved when I read the whole article. The decision was unanimous. They even renewed their contract a year before its expiration. And the biggest flex, THE ORIGINAL LINE-UP IS THE SAME!

Not many groups, even they have renewed their contracts, the line up were not the same especially in a group with 13 members. You would predict at least one or two would drop out, BUT NO ONE DID WITH SEVENTEEN. 

In this, I trust their trust with each other. As a fan, and a friend, I am very delighted to hear more 'SAY THE NAME'! I am very happy to hear more of their music, watch more of their variety shows. I can still hope for more SCoups' sulking, care and leadership, Jeonghan's brain and cheating methods, Joshua's Sunday morning version, Jun's endless 1+1 agenda, Hoshi's unending Horanghae meetings, Wonu's specs that never fails to drop during practice video, Woozi's universefactory, Mingyu and Seungkwan's as well as Dino and Seungkwan's constant bickering, The8's eye catching fashion, and Vernon's attractive MEME faces.

Cheer's to a fascinating and bright future for Seventeen. To everyone, do not be afraid. Just slip into diamond life and trust in Seventeen's bond, you'll never regret it.

To Seventeen, thank you for being an inspiration and to your continuous trust to Carats. The path will not always be flowery and heaven, it will also be rocky and hell. But, no matter what path will that it be, Carats will always be with you walking that path. You will feel tired, exhausted, but always remember, you are doing well. Rest if you had to, we will not demand. Instead, we will patiently wait for you. 

Until to the LAST, SAY THE NAME! 

BALIK TANAW: IDEAL CUT!!!

I will go. I will not go. I will go. I will not go.

That was me before September 29, 2018.

I do not know if what I should do at the time of ticket selling for Seventeen's Ideal Cut in Manila. I was literally broke to even purchase a General Admission ticket.

But I couldn't resist myself. I couldn't stop myself from seeing them again. I wanted to see them again. I wanted to attend to their concert once again. I wanted to experience the most fun-filled concert I will ever had once again.

That is when I decided, I really need to see them even for a distance. I really need to witness the happiness and feel the energy of Seventeen.

It was almost a year since I have experienced Diamond Edge in Manila. I secretly wished that they will not be coming this year here in the Philippines because I am really broke. I just started my work at a new working environment and that my salary is not still enough for me to save money for their concert. Then they announced it. Seventeen will be coming again to the Philippines for Ideal Cut in Manila.

I do not want to miss any opportunity of attending their concert. I just couldn't stop myself from seeing them again. Then an opportunity came to me and I realized, their Ideal Cut concert might be the last concert I will be attending before taking another stepping stone in my life. The next concert will be 2 years after already.

So I decided I will attend the concert no matter what. I was literally dieting to save money. The fact that I only ate a piece of cupcake and biscuit per day and a cup of coffee three times a day just to save money for the concert. I felt the cravings of eating delicious foods but I resisted. I will do anything to attend their concert. I told myself why do I even bother to go to their concert if I can still have the chance to see them during their fansigning event arranged by the Saem PH the next day after the concert. Well its simply because there are memories you couldn't make at the second time around at the same time and at the same day.

What will happen during their concert here in the Philippines? What kind of jokes the crazy trios aka BooSeokSoon will do during their ments? What kind of fan project will be implemented during the concert? What kind of funny moments and even "kilig" moments will I witness during their concert here in the Philippines? What kind of crazy acts they will pull off just to satisfy the happiness of the craving Carats?

These were the various questions I had in mind. I scanned twitter and instagram and almost watched all of the fancams taken during their concerts in different countries. Then those questions pumped into my head. Well I just couldn't afford to miss those moments.

So I decided to attend and asked in the marketplace for anyone selling their tickets in a cheaper price. But I couldn't find anyone selling their tickets in the same price they got it during the ticket selling. So I was losing hope again. Then I saw someone selling her ticket a bit higher than the original price but to which I can pay a downpayment then the rest will be on D-day. So I grabbed it even though I wasn't really sure if the location was good enough.

The day of the concert was nearing and I just couldn't contain myself in excitement. Being able to see Jun and the other boys was making me flastered. They were the reason why despite of having tired mind and body because of my toxic duties in the hospital, I can still go on and wait for their return in the country. I just couldn't understand myself why I am so into them. Why do I even adore these guys too much?! I just couldn't find any answer to that question until I heard someone uttered something while fighting off the heat and crowdiness of the place during Seventeen's fansign event in Robinsons Galleria. I will tell you more about that later.

And the day comes! Alas! The whole MOA arena was so hyped. I could see from the outside of the arena how much Seventeen's fandom grew in number in the Philippines. For someone who attended their concert in 2 consecutive years, I can say Filipino Carats doubled in number, not to mention those who weren't able to watch their concert. Not to miss out during concert, the giveaways and freebies given out from various sites and group of fans. I actually did participate in one where I distirbuted banners. I didn't really care about Mr. Sunshine being so heated as long as I can collect freebies. The whole day was actually tiring but at the same time, fun. Being able to see those fellow Carats so hyped, lining up to get freebies and shouting everytime a special van crosses by were very precious moments. I just smiled at them and being so proud of Seventeen that they have enormous fanbase in my country. By 4-5pm, we decided to get in line to get inside the arena.

While in the line, the arena were playing several songs of Seventeen, Don't Wanna Cry, Thanks and Aju Nice if my memory served me right. And of course, with the passionate chants of Filipino Carats filled the whole outside of the arena and I know Seventeen just deserved this kind of warm welcome. As we ascend to the line, everyone else was so heated up. I ask myself whether the members could actually hear our screams from inside the arena.

Then we were inside the arena. I was a little bit disappointed since the seat I got was not as good for viewing the whole concert but what choice do I have. As long as I can attend their concert and have fun with them, I don't really care where I am seated. Well not that I don't really care, it was just that I still couldn't afford a VIP ticket. I was so envious of those who were at the VIP section. I don't care if I will stand for three long hours as long as I can see them up close. Because of that, I am more determined and had a clearer view of what I wanted to do next. For their next concert that I will attend in the Philippines, I will definitely be in that section and see them up close.

The clock kept on ticking and all Carats are waiting passionately, cheering and shouting loudly all of the members name. They were playing videos on the screen but what was funny was we couldn't hear anything in our section. By the way, my section was GA 507. There was also one fan in our row who kept on shouting the members' names, I think Seungkwan's name in particular, very loudly, maybe louder than the shout of DK I guess.

7:30 pm ticks in and still the show didn't start immediately on the promise time. It was a bit odd actually considering it was an international singer's concert not to start the show on time. Then the concert started after 30 mins, I say Seventeen adapted well to the Filipino time. 😂😂😂

Still 30 mins after, at 8pm, the whole arena darkened and smoke filled the stage. Then the familiar VCR played on the big screen. Well just by watching the VCR, all Carats were heated. Because my view was not really that good, I moved to the center into the stairs even if it was not allowed. I couldn't care less. I just wanted to enjoy the concert so breaking the concert rules were given.

Then BAAM!!!!

THIRTEEN HANDSOME MEN appeared on stage. I couldn't make myself happier despite of the bad view I had. I am just simply happy I was watching them live again. First song was Highlight. It was one of my favorite Performance Unit's song and this time, they perform it as an opening song and OT13 ver. As what I have said before, they were the only idol group I knew who can rearranged their songs from a unit version to an OT13 version. I just don't know if these guys have something they are not really good at because they are always great in everything they do.

The second song was Thanks. Well Carats are always very thankful to you Seventeen because of your endless passion in creating good music for your fans. It was a remix version where they added some dance break in the middle. It was brilliant actually where they break danced in unit then as a whole. The most catchy choreography I really wanted to see was The8's chorus part then Coups' part in the bridge. I am always holding my breath everytime I watch that part. It was beautifully done and they were so much in sync. Then also the part were we again rap their names. I SUCCEEDED FOR THE FIRST TIME! 🤔🖒👏 I actually had a full video of Thanks and in the last part, I am so proud of myself I didn't made a mistake. I usually make a mistake between Wonu's, Jihoon's, Myungho's and Gyu's names. I always jumped to Gyu's name after chanting Wonu's name. I'm sorry about that but I believe I am not the only Carat who didn't felt the same struggle in chanting their precious names. 😂😂

For the third song, I was expecting they would change their setlist and perform Bring It, the duo of SoonHoon. But I guess I wasn't in luck. Still I enjoyed the next stage which was Flower. The choreo was brilliantly done by our precious maknae, Dino. You deserve the praise my love and you absolutely deserve all the chants Dino. We will protect you our dearest Maknae.

Next song to hit the stage, it was NO F.U.N. Well it was indeed a no fun song but a very hot song. Seventeen dears, you really wanted to melt every Carats soul into the deepest of temptation. Please I ask you to stop giving us a hot stage because it is already hot enough in the Philippines. Don't make us feel hotter and make our minds wilder.

The next song was of no difference. Hot and powerful, that was how I describe the next song, Chuck. Coups fiery eyes and deep voice was very intense. You could really feel his burning passion in performing on stage. I guess everyone else were. Their gazes were very intense to watch and I just fell for them even more.

It was time to cool down the hotness and the first ment was next. Well literally they just talked here and there but I couldn't really understand what they were talking about because I was too pre-occupied of watching every three members leave the stage then comeback then another three members leave again.

Then I was surprised. REALLY SURPRISED!!! 😲😲😲

I heard from my section the fans' footsteps were taking the stairs up and out of the concert hall. I couldn't comprehend what was going on. I just followed them without knowing what was happening when I heard the next song being played.

WHAT IN THE WORLD IS GOING ON?! I was asking myself as all of us were hurriedly going downstairs. And some of them shouted that we will be going on the second floor, on the lower box section.

WHAT?! 😲😲😲

I just couldn't comprehend anymore because the song that was playing already was the reason I wanted to attend the concert and my second favorite song, next to Ulgo Shipji Anha. 😢😢😢 But they were making us run fast downtairs. And true enough, they made us entered the second floor, into the lower box section. I have mixed feelings. When we entered again the concert hall, Run to You was already at the bridge part. I was not able to witness the whole stage of Run to You.

I was disappointed but at the same time, excited and overwhelmed! I, who was at the general admission, suddenly came closer to Seventeen's stage. IT WAS INDEED THE BEST CONCERT EVER!!! 😍😍😍

Even though I was a bit disappointed because of Run to You, I still looked in the better perspective. The view in the section was way too better than our view in 507. Let me just jump forward a little bit. When scanning the Seventeen Philippines group, I read a post that a member of Seventeen actually asked the staff about moving the fans in the 507 and 516 section to the second floor. It was rumored that was DK when he went backstage during their ment portion. But whoever it was, it was definitely Seventeen who did it. And because of that, I even fell for them more. You can really feel the care they have to their fans.

Let's go back to the concert scene. After our dramatic and exciting change of section, the next song was played. It was a way they describe all their fans, Beautiful! It is a mixed unit song but they again rearranged it to be an OT13 version. My most favorite scene was Wonhui slapping of butt game after the first chorus. I'm sorry but I am a Wonhui trash so to all Meanie fans and Junhao fans, no worries because there were also a lot of Gyuhaos' moments.

The next song was maybe the most intimidating and powerful song of Seventeen. Well simply because it is the leader line's song, Change Up. They did change, from being cute little puppies into handsome good looking men they are today. But their music was still the same, the same as only Seventeen is the only group who can pull off their own style of music, of creating their own type of song.

The next VCR was played and it was hiphop unit's vcr. It only means the next stage will be taken by the ever powerful rappers of Seventeen. The VCR ended and the next song was played, it was the remix version of Ung Haeng Il Chi. They sat on those sits like boss and they tried to deteriorized our visions because of their visuals and hotness. I just banged my head with them as they sing the song.

Then their next song was an unreleased one, Bow Down. They are the only group that I also knew who can only sing an unreleased song on their concert. Even if I don't understand a thing on their new song, I enjoyed it because I knew they again made a masterpiece song that connects well with their fans.

The Vocal unit's VCR was next played and I am about to hear again a very sincere and heartfelt performance by the group's main moodmakers. Their first song was Habit (remix version). It is one of my favorite vocal unit's song because you can feel the harmony and tense of their voices to which was very relaxing to the ear.

The next song was Pinwheel. It was again one of my favorite vocal unit's song (actually they are all my favorite 😅😅). Let me tell you, I don't really appreciate ballad songs. They are, for me, a lullaby song to which you will immediately fall asleep without even finishing the song. But not with Seventeen's music, not with Vocal unit's songs. The acoustic electric guitar sound blended with soft piano tune is very soothing to hear. Imagine yourself sitting on your front porch and watching the rain pour down while listening to this kind of music, trust me it is very relaxing. All of your toxicities and problems in life will be gone. That is how I feel, try it once if you like.

It was my favorite unit's stage once again. The perfomance unit's VCR played and I screamed hard. I had a thing with dancers that is why I love performance unit. Their energy is somewhat incomparable to the rest of the members of the group. The other members of Seventeen even admit to themselves that performance unit is always the best in performing on stage. Their song was Swimming Fool. Yes we are fools because we are deeply in love with you boys. They are so playful on stage and they even remix the end chorus into a slow motion dance. That was fun actually seeing them playing on the stage.

Next one was Jam Jam remix version. Well what can you expect from the performance team but a very energetic rhythm dance. All Carats just jammed wtih the song and dance along with the unit. And please Jun, stop making my heart fluttered everytime you show up on the screen. This innocent man is nothing but a sweet, pure guy who keep all his problems under his shirt so as not to damage the image of the group. Yes I am a Jun bias and you could see the attention the other members of Seventeen is giving him because they worry about him and they care about him.

Ok so to continue the fun, Bongbongie!!!! Seventeen's Thinking About You Bongbong ver. was the next song. They were really cute wearing those little objects that defines them. S.coups of course was holding the leader flag defining him as the overall leader of Seventeen and Carat. Jeonghan wore those angel's wings and he looked beautiful. Joshua was with his little guitar. Jun of course, my forever love, was holding his cat stuffed toy. I wished to actually buy the same stuffed toy as him 😅😅😅. Prince Hoshi was wearing his red prince coat of course. Wonwoo, the game addict was of course holding his cellphone with bongbong sticker. Woozi, well for Woozi, I am not quite sure of what he was wearing on his hands. It was some kind of circled pouch or something. If anyone knows about it, feel free to comment down or tell me. The8, the real photographer of SVT was holding his precious camera. Mingyu's mic has an MC word means he was the best mc of SVT. DK, always the human loudspeaker of SVT held his megaphone to which I think his voice is the megaphone itself. Boo Seungkwan was with his basket of tangerines. Vernon was looking cool with his headphones. And lastly, the golden Maknae, Dino with letters on his shirt being the golden maknae. Too bad, he was not wearing his dinosaur feet.

The next song was also one of my favorites, Hello. The trio, Jun-DK-Gyu first sang the song during their Seventeen Debut project. And the song was also the only song among the 4 songs they produced during the project that was released with the original members of team C and it was also the last song to be released as well. NO FUN became a group song while OMG became a performance unit song and Drift Away was released as a mixed unit song. Hello balanced off the units with each member from the 3 units completed the trio group. They actually threw roses during the end part. I wished that was me who catched the rose of Jun.

Then it was time to take the sky rocket and flew around the universe with the English line's song, Rocket. Vernon and Shua sang the english ver. of the song actually because they knew Filipinos are fluent in english. But I was actually more used to singing along with the Korean ver. Joshua lost in the rock-paper-scissor game during the dance break so he did freestyle dance as a punishment.

Next song is the song I didn't liked at first, but definitely became one of my favorite songs, Pretty U. Well as expected of the song, they all just played on the stage. And for Seungkwan's triple high note, I just love it. I wish I could also sing like him. And I also remember, they tripped off on the stage while pushing the cushion. They were all laughing because as they claim, it was their first time to lose the balance while pushing the cushion. 😅😅😅 Seungkwan was actually laughing before hitting his high notes and almost didn't reach it 😂😂😂

Next VCR was played and after it, it was time to sing Carat's national anthem, Shining Diamond! "Oh I'm that Diamond. You can't copy this, Seventeen Carat!" I only realize the leaders wore something on their arm identifying them as the leaders of the group. The members really have high respect to their leaders. And of course, Shining Diamond is still one of the most superior song ofe Seventeen.

"Akkinda!" Adore U was next on the sleeve and as always, they are very playful on stage. They always goof around then suddenly becomes on sync when dancing.

Then after, Oh My was next. Their latest song from their latest album. This song really freshes up the mood and it is really light to hear. This song I think is the first song they actually have a fair line distribution. All of them got lines and time to sing. Jun specially of course, my forever bias. Also one of the highlights was the bridge part where we all sang together the "Oh oh oh oh, yeah yeah yeah yeah!" They actually mentioned during their next ment that Filipinos are indeed talented singers because we sang that part beautifully. So they made us sing that part again during the ment.

After which, they did another ment. Well I don't really remember everything what happened during the ment portion because I was too preoccupied in watching them rather than listening to them since I don't understand a thing. But I remember, we were teasing Jeonghan and shouting "iiyak na 'yan!" because his birthday is only few days away. Then when they got to know the meaning, Mingyu suddenly dance to Twice TT. 😅😅😅. Then they said the next song will already be the last song, and we all shouted NO!!!!

The next song was BAKSU! Well, this is one of my fave song. Simply because Jun was the ending center 😂😂😂. I am really sorry because I am really a Jun trash 😅😅😅. Forgive me about that. But then I love this song because it was very cool most specially Vernon's rap part. I really know the lyrics of that part.

"ENCORE, ENCORE, ENCORE!"

The whole arena was filled with chant of encore. It means that it was time for encore stage already. Some fans also chanted "WALANG UUWI!!!" 😁😁😁 Well no one really wanted to go home and end a fun-filled concert.

Then the arena became dark again and the last VCR played. After which, the members came out and sang Campfire. The song was very soothing and relaxing. Just imagine yourself in a camp in front of a bonfire then singing to this song, it is very relaxing. Then in fornt of that bonfire, you will just tell stories with each other while the song was playing as background. Ah! I miss camping days. I hope to go to another camp once again. The members just sing to the song as if we were really on a camping ground.

After the song, they did their ending ment. All of them thanked the undying support of carats. And that they promise they will come back in the Philippines for another concert because really, Philippines was one of their most unforgettable concert during the whole tour. Not to mention, Seungkwan said he won't forget about the cushion scene during Pretty U. And of course, the beautiful medley of Filipino Carats singing "Oh oh oh oh oh, yeah yeah yeah yeah" part in Oh My! Another highlight I remebered during their last ment was the cheers for the golden maknae, Dino. I was actually surprised by how loud the cheers was for him. I didn't expect thay he would actually get the loudest cheers from the Filipino Carats. I actually screamed louder during his part than my bias, Jun. Well again, Dino deserve all those cheers and love. He is indeed the maknae on top.

After the ment, they sing their encore songs already including Healing then the very last one, Aju nice! I scanned all their previous concerts that the encore took very long because of Aju Nice. An endless Aju nice as what other fans called. I thought it was too much to sing it very long but trust me, I just jump and jump that I didn't remember how many times they sang Aju Nice in the ending 😅😅😅. All of us just wore off and just jump to the song.

At last, it was really time to say goodbye. But in every ending only means a new beginning. The concert may have ended but the support of Filipino Carats for Seventeen will never end. It may be difficult at times to support the boys because not all of us are rich kids and not really have all the money to buy every album and merchandise they release, but as long as we support them through thick and thin, that is more than enough to comfort them and assure them that Carats will always be on their side.

So to all Filipino Carats, be patient to wait for the boys come back again in the Philippines!

I still have things to write but it will be on a different post already. It is about Seventeen Fansign event organize by The Saem.

UPDATE: Filipino Carats!!!! Be ready!!! Seventeen is coming back to Manila!!! Stay tuned ODE TO YOU IN MANILA on FEBRUARY and be sure to welcome them and support them!!!

I wanted to go to their concert but as of the moment, I am currently in another country, working and sacrificing myself for a better future and also for Seventeen so that next time, I will see them really upclose already! I just do hope when they come back again to the Philippines after Ode to You Manila, I will be there at their concert once again. I do miss them really!!! 😢😢😢😘😘😘

SEVENTEEN BIAS: MOON JUNHUI

WEN JUNHUI or more commonly known to all Carats out there and in the entire universe as SEVENTEEN MOON JUNHUI is a member of one of the most successful Korean boy group in the entire planet, SEVENTEEN.

He is a part of the performance unit of the group that is mainly responsible for the choreography and dancing. He is a lead dancer and a sub-vocalist (but for me, he is one of the lead vocalist).

And, HE IS MY BIAS.

ALWAYS.

But anyway, all Seventeen members are my bias because it is really hard to only choose one among the pool of 13 talented and skilled boys who always delivers powerful and satisfying music, song and performances.

But Jun is the first one I noticed when I discovered the group.

First reason, because he definitely looked like Super Junior Heechul. But in every reverse you can see, they only look like each other. Their charisma are both in different level.

Second reason, because of his unearthly handsome face. Seriously, I always see a lot of visuals in the Kpop scene but there is no one compared to the beautiful, handsome features of this guy. Now, don't get mad because I am 100% sure that all members of Seventeen are all handsome. It is just that Jun possessed something I cannot explain why for me, he is the most handsome guy in the entire world!

Third reason, he is just so pure that I imagine, if I will be together with him as a friend or a lover, I will be a bad influence to him. I mean, he is too innocent and too pure that I don't know if he is already on his early 20's or still a kid. And that is not in bad way. I feel like I just wanted to be with him 24/7 to protect him at all cost.

Fourth reason, he is too kind. In front of the camera, I always see an innocent, quiet guy and maybe a lot of people may think that it is just a cover up or mask he put in front of his face. But why do I feel, he is real in front or off camera. That he is too kind to be true. That he is the kindest person in the entire planet.

Fifth reason, and most probably the main reason, he is always down to earth. I mean, all of the members are definitely down to earth because they always feel like they still got something to show and to prove even if they have already showed and proved enough to all people who always criticize them but I felt Jun's inner thoughts. That he is the black ship of the group. That he is not worthy to be a part of the group. That he doesn't contribute to the fame of Seventeen or any aspect that can help Seventeen a better group.

His confidence is at its lowest point. But boy, Jun you are one of a h*** total performer. I mean, you will not be a part of Seventeen if you are not talented enough. But then again, I understand him because I felt the same.

Sometimes, even if I tried my best in doing something, I still felt like it wasn't enough and that I am the reason why all mistakes happen that were not suppose to happen. My lack of confidence on my self is my greatest downfall.

Jun always be like "I am the most handsome!" And because of that, some people always criticize him that he is so full of himself. But they do not understand. By saying he is the most handsome, it is his way of gaining confidence. It is his way of boosting his low self-esteem. It is his way for everyone to notice him, even if sometime, it is in a bad way.

JUN, all I want to say right now is that, you are at your best. Do the things you want to do even if others are trying to stop you from doing those things. You are precious to all of your fans as all members are very precious as well.

SEVENTEEN WILL NOT BE SEVENTEEN WITHOUT YOU.
SEVENTEEN WILL NOT BE SEVENTEEN IF ONE IS NOT PRESENT.

That is the funny part because of the numbers, you shouldn't be able to notice if one is missing. But with Seventeen, the stage felt an empty cup without the presence of one member.

JUN, you are a member of Seventeen and whatever your position is in the group, it is important. Because all members of the group are equally important.

Remember Jun, you are the JUN we always know and no matter what, YOU WILL ALWAYS BE SEVENTEEN'S MOON JUNHUI!

SEVENTEEN! SEVENTEEN! SEVENTEEN!

SEUNGCHEOL! JEONGHAN! JISOO! JUNHUI! SOONYOUNG! WONWOO! JIHOON! MYUNGHO! MINGYU! SEOKMIN! SEUNGKWAN! HANSOL! CHAN!
WHOOOOOO!!!!

OKAY! STOP! Let me breath for a sec! WHOOPS!

Who even invented this fanchant?! Like seriously?! 😅😅😅

Let me just remind you, I am not a rapper but I guess shouting these names make me a good damn rapper!😅 Hoshi-sshi, I hope you are enjoying seeing your fans ran out of breathe and listening to them rapping out loud your precious names! 😊😘

For me, that was the most nerve-wracking fanchant ever in the history of Kpop. Why? Who would ever want to memorize all 13 names and shout them out loud without breathing within 5 seconds? Well I can only guess one particular fandom! CARATS!!!😁😆😲

Slipping into the diamond life wasn't an easy decision. Or did I even made a decision in joining this fandom? I guess I didn't. I just slipped into Sebongies life without realizing it. What did I say before? I slipped out of the Kpop world for few years but these 13 playful kids brought me back to the music I listened and adore the most.

I listened to their songs, watched their variety shows, searched their names on google, well I guess that was enough to say I slipped into the diamond life. But what made me realize I really stanned this group? When I heard they have a world tour and their last stop was no other than my precious country, the Philippines.

I want to go. I want to witness their live performances. I want to watch with my very own two eyes the beauty of their creative choreographies. I want to listen to their angelic voices.

And then it hit me, I really wanted to see them even just for once!

Remember what happened with my ultimate bias, 2NE1? I attended their concert, the All or Nothing World Tour last 2014 and I was really glad I attended. I might have regretted for the rest of my life if I didn't attend their concert because who would have really thought that the All or Nothing question will really be an All or Nothing period.

I felt at that moment when I learned about Seventeen's concert, I might regret if I will not go. I was afraid that even if they are still starting as a group, that would be their last concert here in the Philippines.

So I decided I should go. I will go no matter what!

But the problem was, where would I get money to buy a ticket? Was my salary enough to purchase even an Upper Box ticket? Well guess what? I just learned the word "iponing" and how to do it.

I realized I could really save money if I really wanted something. I did save money for the concert. I even did the last thing I could ever did, to ask for an advance pay! 😅😅😅 Well that was how desperate I am just to attend their concert.

But struggles didn't left me. Problem didn't stay away from me. Why? Because my next problem was, my desired seat Upper Box was already unavailable. Hmmmmm 🤔🤔🤔. Lower box ticket was too much for my little amount of budget. I was getting really down because I might not be really able to go to the concert. I was losing hope of seeing Seventeen for once. So I tried my last chance, asking on every group and marketplace online for an extra ticket for upper box.

I struggled a lot looking for a ticket. At least a cheaper one that was almost the same as the real price in SM tickets. Why? Because the others were selling their tickets in a triple price than the original price. Not to offend or bash anyone, but Carats please be considerable to one another. It doesn't mean that a Carat is desperately looking for a ticket, you will already put a lot of gold on top of the ticket. Because of this scheme, I was totally losing hope. I actually did lost hope already.

But a blessing came. My luck didn't abandoned me. A very genorous person did sell her ticket to me in almost the same price as the original. And I am really grateful to you (you know who you are so just comment down 😊). If it wasn't because of your ticket, I would not have seen my precious Jun and all the kids of Seventeen! 😊😘😭

But I thought buying the ticket was enough. Damn it! I missed the most important part, saving a lot of money for it to be wasted in buying a lot of goods during the concert. Huh! 🤔. My outfit should be perfect since there would be a fan project, to fill in the arena with rose quartz and serenity color. So even if I was really running out of cash, I bought a t-shirt(serenity color), a cap, a lightstick (but not the official Carat bong since I don't have enough cash to buy a 2K bong) and a customized, personalized phone case. These were the only things my money could bought. But little things do matter with Seventeen. So even if I have little things to show my support to them, at least I still showed it. For me my presence was way more important than any of the material things since the presence of every Filipino Carat was more important to Seventeen than any gift or materials.

And it's D-Day!!!!! It's time for Seventeen Diamond Edge Concert!!!!! SCREAM!!!!

Well the outside of the arena was really filled with screams and shouts from the ever excited Carats who were itching to see the precious boys of Seventeen! Even the guards and security of the arena couldn't hold down the hungry Carats for Seventeen's appearance. 😂😂

Well not until late afternoon did the Sebongies came and endless storm of screams filled the whole Pasay City!!! A bit exaggerated but when you were there, I guess you felt the same. Few hours to go and the concert will start. Excited Carats get up to their feet and started to line up to see the lovely princes perform every masterpiece they have released since their debut. Everyone was practicing the fanchants and of course, to perfectly rap their names while waiting for the line to advance. Everyone else was excited and giggled every time the line advanced. All Carats were overwhelmed that at last they would be watching Seventeen perform live!

Seven o'clock kicks in and almost everyone were already inside the arena. Official music videos of Seventeen were being played on the big screen and all of us were jamming to all the songs. I could really felt the excitement of everyone. Screams filled the arena. Overwhelming passion of every Carat to sing the songs showed their unending love to the group.

I realized I did not regret slipping into the diamond life. We were all counting every minute to pass by until BOOM!!!! Eight o'clock ticked!!!

Opening VCR with the ever gorgeous princes of Seventeen appeared on screen. They were really playful. I really wonder if they are really men already 😅😅.

Then a tick of a shoe was heard. Next thing I knew I was screaming hard!

JUN!!!!!!!!!!!

God bless my soul but hell yeah!!! Why are you so handsome Jun!!!! I can't even breath!!! You're so damn errrrr!! I love you!!! 😘😘😘

Then he was joined by SoonHoon!!!! Damn!!! Why are you so cute!!! Then BAAM!!! ALL SEVENTEEN PRINCES CAME OUT!!! I couldn't even hear my own voice because the arena was already occupied by endless passionate shouts from every single Carat!!!

The themepark opening was really playful. I just enjoyed myself watching all the members run here and there to greet the fans. Watching them enjoying the stage was more than enough for me. I knew they were very tired because of their continuous schedule but you could really see through them that they were enjoying every moment there is to enjoy.

YEPPEUNDA!!!

Pretty U was the first song. It was the first song I listened and the first stage I watched from Seventeen but stopped watching and listening in the middle of the performance. I am again sorry and I am very apologetic to Seventeen and Carats but I wasn't able to appreciate the song at first. But look at me now, who would have thought that it will be a song I will always treasure because of its meaningful lyrics?

The concert was getting hyped because Pretty U was followed by another two energetic songs, Beautiful and AKKINDA (Adore U)!!! Adore U's chereography was so much fun to watch. They were really excited on stage. I could feel they were having fun and that was how I enjoyed their stages, I also just had fun watching them. I didn't know where I should focus, on screen or on the stage? I guess I watched both since I have four eyes 😅😅!!!

But I was targetting particular members!!! I mean I was spotting more of the ships!!! 😂😂😂

And my ultimate ship, WONHUI!!!! RISE BOYS!!!! I love their cute interactions. I also spotted some JiCheol and JeongCheol and Junhao and Verkwan!! I am really sorry that I didn't have any pictures because I was too focused on enjoying their stages that I wasn't able to capture on my camera every single moment. I just captured all those precious memories inside my mind and heart. So if you want to share all your photos, please feel free to comment down.

Opening MENT and BooSeokSoon, the ultimate crazy trios were really crazy to watch. I love them! I just smiled the entire opening ment. My smile could even tear apart my cheeks because seriously seeing their generous smiles made me soft and just smile with them. All of them greeted their Filipino fans individually and tried to express some Tagalog words like "Mahal Kita", "Kumusta kayo". They were all sweet and sweaty 😅😅😅. They were cute while saying those Filipino words but I couldn't get enough of Joshua and Vernon's english 😂😂.

Next song was introduced and it was Still Lonely OT13 ver. They are the only group I knew as of the moment who can actually make any of their songs into an OT13 ver. Like for example, Still Lonely was a mixed unit song and also Highlight which was an original Performance unit song but they rearranged it and made it into an ALL ver. song.

Still lonely was followed by the ever, cheerleading song Aju Nice!!!!! 🖒🖒🖒🖒 Aju Nice is a very hype song and can be a cheerleading song since the chorus is really addictive. You just have to dance with it and shout it out loud, AJU NICE!!!!

Next song, it was the Performance team's Swimming Fool. Yeah right. We Carats are fool enough to be in love with you guys because you are all so adorable and dorks. Performance team will always be my favorite unit because I myself knows how to dance and dancing is one of my hobbies. Another thing is I really adore how powerful Performance team are when they are performing on stage. No doubt even the other members of Seventeen always tell no one among them could be compared to the passion of Performance team during practice and even on stage. And of course I have always this infatuation or close feeling to a dancer. Maybe my ideal type is someone who really knows how to dance well. That is why my bias is Jun and he will always be no matter what he does and what he says.

Another VCR played and showed the middle school aged Seventeen. I love their cuteness. It reminds me of my own high school life and I was still on the "NENE" days of my life. High school thought me a lot things such as decisions that I have never imagined I would decide on. I just hoped Seventeen's middle school life was the same as mine because if I am not mistaken, some of them started as trainees even before they could shout Mansae!!! I mean, some of them started as trainees when they were already in middle school.

MANSAE!!! MANSAE!!! MANSAE!!! HEY!!! The next song was Mansae!!! 😂😂😂 This song was really really fun!!! They really brought out their inner kiddos' life. They just have fun dancing on stage but damn, how could they still be in synchronize moves? I mean 1 sec they were just playing around then here comes the chorus and they were already dancing in sync. Only Seventeen could do that I guess. The highlight for mansae for me, it was DK's high notes at the last part while everyone else was waving their hands into the tunes of the song then DK suddenly hit that high note. My ears still couldn't get enough of that high pitch. Everytime I listen to Mansae, I always anticipates DK' notes at the end. And who could not know the famous "Mansae Wave Dance"!!! Everyone raised their hands and waved their hands to the Mansae Wave!!!! That was so fun actually.

BOOM BOOM!!! BOOM BOOM!!! BOOM BOOM!!!

The grenade drops and BOOM BOOM!!! Boom Boom is one of Seventeen's song with the hardest choreography and it was one of their choreographies I really wanted to see LIVE. Like how could they be in synchronize while jumping three times at the chorus and how could they make that kind of circle also during the chorus? This was the beauty of staying in Upper Box because you could really see the beauty of their formations. I mean I love their choreographies. They were done creatively.

Its MC time and for DE Manila, Dino and Hoshi became MCs for the night. They played together with us and the game was for them to imitate each other and whoever receives the loudest cheer amongst us will be the winner. So if I remember it correctly, Dino imitated Hoshi first by copying Hoshi's way of talking. I couldn't remember the whole details already. But Hoshi won the game by imitating Dino's part on Ulgo Shipji Anha'a chorus. He imitated how Dino executes the Ulgo Shipji Anha dance move during the chorus. It was really funny actually that was why everyone was screaming and Dino accepted defeat in the end. Of course, there was a punishment and that was to spell out their name through their butt. And Dino did it. Everyone was freaking and screaming hard. After Dino, we cheered on and shout out to Hoshi to do the same even if he won the game. And he entertainly did it for Filipino Carats!

SOLO UNIT PERFORMANCE STARTS!!!

Its VOCAL UNIT!!!

We Gonna Make It Shine (2018 ver.). It was their first song. Their angelic voices melted the whole arena. The sweetness and heavy emotions in the way they sing the song was so touching. You could feel the emotions in there and their desire to make every moment shine. Their harmony with each other felt like as if they are one and they really are one team.

Then the stage turned into dark with heavy smoke and frightening feel. Then 5 vampire prince take their positions and started to sing in their evil voices 😅😊. Don't Listen Secretly (Vampire ver.) really gave that feeling where you are being haunted by five beautiful evil princes through your darkest nightmares. Well I am willing to have nightmares every night just to see these beautiful souls. They are so talented that you wouldn't believe this unit is the dorkiest and noisiest one. They were really serious on stage.

BAAM!!! The atmosphere turned into heavy rock vibes. It was time for HIPHOP UNIT!!!

They started off with their mixtape release, Un Haeng Il Chi! Well trust me, what I just did the whole hiphop unit song was to head bangged with them and almost jumped with them but I couldn't 😂😂. I love hiphop because it always makes me high and energetic. So I love them!!!

Then its Check In time! Yeah I check in Manila City!!! Yeah right Manila city is on their song. All of us just sing along with them as they all move around and sing!!! Also the visual of this unit is undeniable. All of them are so handsome that I really wanted to hug them and kiss them on the cheeks! 😂😘😊😁

Another VCR played and there, my favorite unit, PERFORMANCE UNIT time to take stage once again!

OH MY GOD!!! OMG was the first song and I just had enough of watching them dancing on stage. I just sing along with them and enjoyed my life watching them dance. They were very synchronized and powerful when dancing. No doubt that they are called the performance unit. They deserve the name.

Then HIGHLIGHT was next!!! It was the remix ver. where I witnessed their dance break. No matter what they do in dancing and despite of continously singing and dancing on stage, they were still powerful as ever. I was kind of hoping that they will perform WHO because that is one of their songs I enjoyed the most but I guess luck was not with me.

We are almost halfway through the end!!! NOOOOO!!!! 😢😢😢

Yes. It was already second half of the concert but the energy of every Carats was still incomparable. The hotness inside of the arena was building and that was because Seventeen came back on stage on their red outfits.

Crazy in Love was the next song and yes, we are damn crazy in love with you Sebongies. Stop melting our hearts!!!! Damn it!!! 😂😂 The ending pose of the song was Wonwoo but was joined by Junhao because of the next song.

MY I. One of the very reason why I wanted to really watch Diamond Edge concert in Manila. It was because of this song. I knew this stage would only be performed once and that was through their entire DE concert. I knew that I will never be able to witness again that stage so yes, Jun and The8's duet stage was one of the most important reason why I watched the concert. The connection and bond of the two was undeniable. The choreography and the song itself detailed their brotherhood. The beauty of their performance was over the top. I really felt their connection with each other. I felt the happiness they had whenever they perform that stage. I saw the white rope will connect them through the time, always and forever.

Also Seventeen is the only group who actually gave a spotlight for their Chinese members to perform a solo stage in their concert. Other groups wouldn't do it. Only if there are really solo stages but for Seventeen, they maintained the solo stage for Junhao!!! THIS IS THE MAIN REASON WHY I LOVE SEVENTEEN!!! They always make sure that each member shine on stage.

Then it was Hiphop unit's time again to sing their unit song, If I. It was one of their songs that truly shows they are not born only to rap but were also born to sing. The hotness and sexiness during the ending received tremendous cheers and I am one of those who left out a very noisy cheer.

Vocal Unit was up to take on the stage once again and they also performed one of my favorite song of them, Habit. As always, they gave so much emotion on the song and the ending harmony during the chorus always gave me the chills.

They talk once again. I couldn't remember every detail actually because all I did during Ment portions was to laugh, scream and smile with them. I am not pretty much sure of what they talked about during this ment but I remember, they teased Joshua to do something again. Sorry folks but you are free to comment down if you remember anything about this ment. Then also only I could remember was them introducing their stage that would be full of hotness despite of the cold weather outside of the arena. Their next stages will be goddamn sexy.

And they were right, the two songs brought out their inner men outlook and performed two of their hardest choreographies ever, Rock and Chuck. The choreography was very intense and damn powerful but they maintained they synchronization. No doubt they always ran out of breathe when performing these two songs consecutively.

After the two songs, there was another ment and they were saying their goodbye already. They said that it would already be their last stage. NOOOOOO!!! They introduced the song as their best masterpiece and the song that really gained a lot of love and fans.

ULGO SHIPJI ANHA!!!

The main reason why I attended the concert, the song that made me slipped into the diamond, the song that made me realize my life is not yet complete. Don't Wanna Cry was creatively done and the story behind it was touching. The choreography was also beautifully created and their synchronize moves on this song was done perfectly. It was the song that stayed on my top list as my favorite song of all time. The meaning of the song was very emotional that at the time I learned about it, I almost cried. I did cried actually. So witnessing it live was very emotional that I almost got myself into tears once again. I just tried to hold back the feelings. They sang the song with so much emotion while performing the choreography with intense feeling of longing and separation.

Every Carat just sang along with Seventeen whenever the chorus hits. Ulgo Shipji Anha!!! But what stopped me was Wonwoo's part. No matter what, Wonu's part will always have a special part in my heart.

"How can I live as one if my other half is gone?"

A question that would make you think, how will I live if a part of my heart and soul is missing. Try to think about it. This part doesn't only pertain to a lost loved one or missing a certain person. This part could also mean something about yourself, about loving yourself, about finding yourself. You will never live as whole person as long as there is something missing in you but the problem is, you doesn't seem to know what is missing. That only means that you have to find yourself to make you live as one person.

For me who doesn't really have a special someone like that of what is describe on Seventeen's song, Wonu's part targeted my life, in loving myself, in finding myself, in completing myself. How would I ever live as one person if half of my life is still missing? And the fact that I do not know what is missing. Maybe I still have a lot of dreams to fulfill and I am also finding or rather, waiting for someone to complete me. That someone will one day appear who will listen to my sentiments, someone who will be my crying shoulder, someone who will always tell me that I am in my best condition and that I can achieve all the things I wanted to achieve. Maybe I am too emotional on this aspect but everytime I hear Wonu's part, I always think like that.

Also I felt Woozi or Seungcheol wrote this part thinking how would each one of Seventeen members live in the future if they would go on their seperate ways already. How would each Seventeen members would go on with their lives if the brothers they have treated as their own will be gone one day. Also, it is a message to all Carats that how would Seventeen live on their name if Carats will be gone.

Anyways, like what I have said the chereography was very emotional and the power Seventeen showed while performing this song gave every Carat a very intense feeling. The intro with Jeonghan's and DK's dance was very touching as well. In total, Ulgo Shipji Anha received tremendous cheers from the crowd.

ENCORE!!! ENCORE!!! ENCORE!!!

Then the VCR with Seventeen's message to all Carats played. I have heard some of those beside me cried because of the VCR.

Seventeen again stand on stage and performed the national anthem of Carats, Shining Diamonds! After it, the very last they sang was Healing. I even remember Seungcheol forgot to sing his part because he was having too much fun. During the ending song, Carats filled in the arena with Rose Quartz and Serenity ocean. Those who are on left side of the arena wrapped their Carat bongs with Rose Quartz while on the other side was Serenity. It was majestic actually. I wouldn't thought that the fan project to be successful. Seventeen did actually noticed the project. How?

After the song ended, they went on the main stage to sit and to give their final messages but before sitting, I saw how Leader-nim Seungcheol-sshi organized his kids to sit according to the ocean. I saw how he pointed on the crowd and explained to the members to sit according to the ocean. So unlike their other stages to which they have a certain sitting arrangement, all Seventeen members wearing Serenity color seated on the right side of the stage while the rest wearing Rose Quartz color seated on the left side. It was a sweet gesture if I say. Considering and appreciating the fan project was so thoughful, so thank you leader-nim, you are really the best.

Each and one of them say their thank you's to all Carats. The journey of Diamond Edge Concert ended that day and they were all grateful to all Carats who attended their concert. An end means a new beginning as I always say. The concert might have ended but Seventeen is only creating a new beginning. And that was after the concert, a new album would come out, Teen, Age album, their 2nd full length album.

The experience of the concert was very different. The excitement never subside the entire moment. I was sad because we have to say goodbye to Seventeen but I know that day would not be the last day I will see them.

And through enough, after a year Sebongies are ready to hit the Philippines once again for their upcoming concert, IDEAL CUT IN MANILA!! But the problem is I don't have enough funds once again to attend their concert. This is why I wrote this post because I wanted to reminisce all that happened during that day, October 6, 2017. Because I might not be able to see them this year. I just hope a good helping hand would give a ticket but that would be totally impossible except if you will notify Ms. Happee Sy about this post and she might give me a chance to meet Seventeen in person. 😅😅 That is how desperate I am to meet them again.

So for now, I am ending this post because it is too long already. Ms. Happee Sy I hope you read this and deliver my message to Seventeen: NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS, WHATEVER DECISIONS YOU MAKE IN LIFE, I AND ALL CARATS WILL BE HERE FOR YOU OUR PRECIOUS PRINCES, ALWAYS AND FOREVER! 😍😊😗

SAY THE NAME!!!! Confession of a Kpop fanatic

Stan a group. Follow a boy idol group or a girl idol group. Watch and stream their music videos. Listen to every song they release. Laugh at their variety shows even if you don't understand a single word unless you will wait a week for english subtitles. Buy every korean dictionary just to study basic Korean words.

That is how a K-pop fan live every single day. That is how I lived as a K-pop fan. Basically, K-pop or Korean pop music is like any other pop music, American, Mexican or Filipino pop music. But what is with Korean Pop music that differs them from other countries' pop music?

I have been a K-Pop fan since 2009 during the era of 2NE1 where the Pambansang Krung-Krung ng Pilipinas, Sandara Park is a member, the era where everyone must know how to dance to the tune of "Nobody, nobody but you!", the era to which the famous line "DAO MING SI" became "GO JUN PYO!" from the hit Korean remake of Meteor Garden, Boys Over Flowers. To this era where Korean pop music totally bloomed and became famous in the Philippines and to the rest of the Asian countries and even worldwide. To this era that they considered it as the GOLDEN AGE OF KOREAN POP MUSIC.

But like what I have said, I have been into K-Pop since the golden age. And then I have stopped stanning. What stanning even means, right? I'll explain it later. Again, I have stopped listening to new K-Pop songs. Not totally stopped like the way you imagine it because I still listen to every single song my bias groups new releases like my ultimate bias, 2NE1, and of course from Super Junior, Girls Generation, Big Bang and a lot more. A lot more but only from the 2nd generation K-Pop groups. Until I get bored. Or maybe bored is way too offensive so let's use, uhmmmmm, until I get too much of it.

Now, don't be confused. I am not talking about songs here but instead, I am talking about groups that kept on debuting from side to side, right or left, north or south, up or down, west or east. Kind of out the step right? But what I am trying to say is that, there were too much groups that kept on debuting wherein some of them were being underrated. That was when I have stopped. That was from 2012 actually. Beyond 2012, I don't know all of the groups that kept appearing on TV except of course those groups coming from the Big 3 (YG, JYP, SM) like EXO, WINNER, RED VELVET, GOT7. It was not that I do not know them but I didn't pay much attention to them because like what I have said, there were too much. I don't even know the existence of BTS (2013) which is by the way the currently worldwide trendsetter and representative of Korean music, and NU'EST (2012) that actually debuted almost the same time as EXO.

Now, for all the K-Pop fans who might read this, most especially to EXO-L's or ARMY's, I am not saying I don't like your group or don't even know their existence in the K-Pop scene but I am simply stating I didn't pay much attention to their music because of too many new releases from new and fresh idol groups. I actually appreciate their music and actually started coming back to being a K-Pop lover.

But when did I really came back on stanning a boy group or a girl group? First, let me explain what does stanning means. Stanning means buying all the goods of a K-pop group from official albums to official merchandise to even unofficial goods released by co-Kpop fans. It also means following all the group activities from concerts to fanmeetings to music shows to variety shows to Korean dramas. Literally, stanning means knowing all the group members by name, by nicknames, by heart no matter how many members they have in the group.

For me, stanning a group is totally different from listening to a group. For example, you listen to a new song release from a group and you liked it but that doesn't mean you will also like the group. Maybe you will do some research about the groups background but not totally memorize all of their adventures and activities, even just the members' names. It will be enough for you to just know the name of the whole group who sang the song, period.

But in stanning a group, no matter how clumsy the song release will be, for you, their new song will be awarded the best song of the year in spite of the tight competition. For you, their album is the best ever album out there even if there are a lot of other good albums in the market. For you, no matter what the members do or whatever decisions they make, you will accept them wholeheartedly. For you, they became your inspiration in continuing to live and dream to the fullest.

That is what I exactly felt when I started stanning a group named SEVENTEEN but only have thirteen members! 😂😂😂😂😂

Actually, like what I have said, I didn't know Seventeen since debut to which by the way they debuted way back last May 26, 2015. I heard their group's name and even actually watched one of their live music show which was Pretty U. But I didn't actually finished watching it and didn't appreciated the song well. Now CARATS don't be mad. I'll explain. Or maybe the explanation was already discussed above. I had stopped liking new groups and paid little attention to them. So please, co-Carats please be a little bit understandable. 🙏🙏🙏

Now, how did I get to know them again and actually paid attention to them? I am a little bit apologetic of how I get to know them again but it was because of Produce 101. Remember IOI? Who did wrote IOI's last song before disbandment? It was Woozi. But did I know him before? It will be a lie if I say yes, so yeah, I didn't know him at all. Now here comes Season 2 of Produce 101 to which I got to know a lot of handsome and talented guys but one group stand out the most, NU'EST, Seventeen's sunbaes.

They debuted way back in 2012, I think just right after EXO did. But they were underrated. They participated in the show for a second chance. And thankfully they achieved it through hard work. But how it was related of getting to know Seventeen? Here's how. If my memory served me right, Dong Ho (Baekho of NU'EST) once said in an interview in PD 101 that they were jealous of the popularity of Seventeen and that they wish, one day NU'EST will get the same recognition as what Seventeen has.

I got curious. Why were they more popular than their seniors? Who are they by the way? Who is Seventeen? Then my curiosity brought me to knowing them. In timely, Seventeen released a new album by that time, around last week of May. It was ULGO SHIPJI ANHA or DON'T WANNA CRY. The first time I heard it, "Oh its good. I like the genre." Then I decided to watch their live. Second thing I know, I was amazed by the choreography so I thought, "Okay, they are really good."

But then again, I hesitated to know more about them. Why? Because there are too many members in the group and because I was traumatized. I doubted myself I would even listen to the group ever again so I just appreciated their music. But then again! I couldn't stop myself but to watch again their live performances on that certain song. So I challenge myself. If I will remember all of their names and recognize their faces, then I will give myself a chance to know them better. And so I did.

I memorized all of the names of Super Junior members for about 6 months, Girls Generation members for a about the same number of months and EXO members for a year. But for Seventeen, well it only took me a day to memorized their names and remember their faces.

So yes, I dig more about them and that was when I knew they actually have sub-units already. A Hip-Hop unit, a Vocal unit and Performance unit to which each unit encompasses members of the group who have the specialty of rapping, singing, and total performing. "So each member has actually time to shine," I thought. Unlike other groups that only one or two members really shine on stage and only them are being recognized by a lot of fans. It was the first time I saw a group that actually divided their image into fairness. And I was actually shocked that even the Chinese members have moments to shine. So I said, "Okay, so maybe I can stan this group."

So I researched their songs, listened to every track they had to which was very rare for me to do it since I only listen to the title tracks of every group. And I actually appreciated all of their songs. That was actually a sign that I am gradually stanning the group since like what I have said, in a group, I only listen to their title tracks and ignore the rest of their songs in their album. With of course, exception to my already biased groups. Then I dig more more information about them until I came across with their rings.

"So what's with the ring?" My curiosity about Seventeen got deeper. And so I learned the ring was considered to be their bond ring, a symbol that they are members of Seventeen. And I realized, the bond is deeper than what I had expected. Why?

Here's the thing. I think I mentioned this above. I was traumatized that was why I hesitated. Why was I traumatized.? It was my first heartbreak in K-Pop. My favorite member of the group left. And that was Jessica leaving Girls Generation. Then rumors spread as to why she left the group and those rumors doesn't really sound good. I began to question their bond. Despite all the rumors, I trusted them that their bond was stronger than any words coming out of every stranger and every hater. But that was when it hit me. She left. They accepted it. That was the end.

So I basically stopped knowing new groups because what's the point of it if one member leave the group then another one then another one until the group disband. It is like creating a new group with members who just wanted to debut but doesn't really care about each other. I don't really know what happened to GG and I may not have the right to judge what really happened but as of now, I think I understand what really happened and that their bond was overshadowed with something else. For Sones, I guess you might want to carefully see things around the group you adored.

So I doubted in stanning Seventeen. But my curiosity overshadowed it. Because there is a question that I want to know.

"How far will they go together as a complete group? How far will their rings bring them to the future?"

I want to see it. I want to witness it.

2NE1, my ultimate bias group disbanded. But I told myself even before stanning them, there would be a time they would go on their separate ways. But will the bond remain? And so it did. 2NE1 is still there supporting each other and their bond go beyond the group's name and popularity. They do not fear to show their bond is destined by faith.

For Seventeen, I want to see their future. They always say that their rings are very important. They actually don't even take it off no matter what they are doing. And I witnessed it. I want to see how far their bond will be. That even if the time will come for them to make a very hard decision, I want to witness the bond they will create beyond their idol image.