[MALAYSIA] Kuala Lumpur Erupted as MONSTA X Finally Returned After Seven Years

MONSTA X finally made their long-awaited return to Kuala Lumpur, marking the city as one of the standout stops on their 2026 WORLD TOUR [THE X : NEXUS]. Held at Mega Star Arena, the concert brought together MONBEBE from across Malaysia and neighboring countries, all eager to see the group live for the first time in nearly a decade. Fans filled the arena hours before the show, waving light sticks, chanting, and displaying banners, creating an atmosphere buzzing with anticipation.

The members who performed were Shownu, Minhyuk, Kihyun, Hyungwon, and Joohoney, each bringing powerful presence and personality to the stage. I.M (Lim Changkyun) could not be there because he is serving his mandatory military service since February 2026. MONBEBE made sure his absence was felt, chanting his name and waving banners throughout the night.

Shownu led with strong and athletic moves, commanding attention with every step. Hyungwon brought smooth, precise choreography and effortless charisma. Minhyuk engaged MONBEBE with playful energy and humor, creating memorable fan interactions. Kihyun delivered powerhouse vocals that resonated through the arena, and Joohoney fired up the crowd with intense rap moments that had everyone cheering along. Together, they felt unstoppable, like a group reunited with fans who had waited far too long.

A Night of Atmosphere and Energy

The arena was electric even before the first song. MONBEBE filled every corner, chanting in unison, waving light sticks, and holding up banners. The excitement was not just about watching MONSTA X perform, but celebrating the connection they share with MONBEBE. Every cheer, every chant, and every wave of lights added to the energy, creating a night that felt as thrilling as it did emotional.

The show opened with DRAMARAMA, instantly igniting the crowd. MONSTA X then performed Love Killa and Rush Hour, showcasing their signature high-energy style. Excitement peaked with LONE RANGER and Catch Me Now, demonstrating the group’s precision and stage power.

Members actively engaged with the audience, exchanging greetings and eye contact, proving that the bond with MONBEBE remains strong despite the seven-year gap. Emotional tracks such as MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT, Deny, and AND highlighted the group’s versatility, providing fans with intimate and memorable moments.

MONSTA X displayed notable growth with performances of Do What I Want, N the Front, and Tuscan Leather from their mini album THE X, released last September. The group elevated the show further with Beautiful and Nobody Else, while seamless camera transitions connected each performance and drew enthusiastic cheers from the audience.

Solo Highlights That Stole the Show

The midsection of the concert highlighted each member’s individuality. Shownu captivated the crowd with Around & Go, displaying athleticism and commanding stage presence. Kihyun followed with Howling, delivering explosive vocals and intense charisma. Hyungwon performed NO AIR, providing an ethereal and elegant change of pace, while Minhyuk moved fans with a heartfelt guitar performance of Reaching.

Joohoney energized the arena with his rap-focused solo stages, performing STING (Feat. Muhammad Ali) and Touch the Sky (Feat. Tiger JK), proving his versatility and stage dominance. I.M’s solo from the Seoul concert was shown via VCR, creating a special moment of unity between him, the performing members, and MONBEBE.

Fan Love in Full Force

Reunited on stage, MONSTA X delivered Autobahn, Beautiful Liar, Alligator, and Shoot Out, keeping the arena buzzing with energy. Between songs, the members connected directly with the audience, sharing playful jokes, heartfelt messages, and spontaneous moments that made fans feel seen. Shownu and Joohoney led the high-energy interactions, while Minhyuk, Kihyun, and Hyungwon added personal touches, creating intimate moments despite the size of the venue and making the night unforgettable for every MONBEBE.

I.M’s absence was noticeable, but MONBEBE ensured he was celebrated. Fans chanted his name multiple times, held banners, and made him part of the experience, proving the bond between all six members and MONBEBE is strong and enduring. The connection between MONSTA X and their fandom was palpable throughout the night, showing why their relationship remains one of the most devoted in K-pop.

The performance culminated with Fire & Ice, leaving the arena buzzing. The encore allowed MONSTA X to fully engage with MONBEBE, who responded with chants, light stick waves, and cheers that matched the group’s energy, creating an unforgettable finale.

The Kuala Lumpur concert will be remembered as a landmark performance, where every member stood out, solo and together, and MONBEBE’s energy matched the group’s every step of the way. The reunion proved that no matter the time apart, MONSTA X and MONBEBE share a fire that never fades.

The Seoul Story would like to thank Stormex Entertainment for the media invite.

Written by: Faris Aqmar
Photos by: Faris Aqmar

The Seoul Story – Connecting K-Pop Fans Since 2011 
WEBSITE | TWITTER | LIKE US | WATCH US