Show Review: NCT Wish differentiates themselves from other sub-units at first S’pore show

NCT Wish, SM Entertainment’s newest addition to the popular experimental boy group NCT, performed at Arena @ EXPO yesterday. Part of their Asia Tour Log, this marks the group’s first solo concert in Singapore.

In the two-hour-long set, the sextet, comprising Sion, Riku, Yushi, Jaehee, Ryo, and Sakuya, showcased a plethora of charms that differentiated them from other NCT sub-units. Here are four highlights from the show.

1. Witty concept

Possibly referring to a tour log or logging in to a particular country, their title was a wonderful play on words.

The group also translated the concept of logging into various elements throughout the show, such as using the stage as a game control panel. Through this, they engaged the crowd in pressing the various buttons projected on stage.

For instance, a press of the on/off button on the extreme right-hand side of the stage would control fans’ lightsticks.

2. Adorable, energetic and youthful

With the group including members born from 2002 to 2007, it is unsurprising that they exude a boyish, youthful charm.

This felt reminiscent of NCT Dream’s initial concept, which was initially based on an admission-and-graduation concept. Under this system, members “graduate” upon reaching the age of adulthood.

Their adorable and energetic charm particularly shone through in the performance of their latest title track, poppop (2025). The bright melody combined with rhythmic dance moves truly came off as refreshing.

3. Covers galore

Given that the group just debuted last year, their discography is not the most robust at present. Hence, the members covered representative songs from their labelmates.

During their show, the group briefly performed Exo’s Growl (2013) and Shinhwa’s Eusha! Eusha! (1998).

 

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They also garnered votes for the cover that fans wished to see the most.

In Singapore, the most popular choice was NCT U’s Make A Wish (Birthday Song) (2020). This allowed the boys to showcase their more powerful and masculine side, with this edgier track and hard-hitting choreography.

4. All for the fans

It was heartening to see that the newly debuted group really valued their fans. Aside from making consistent attempts to use Singlish, the boys also made sure to interact with fans.

Towards the end of the show, NCT Wish threw star trinkets to the crowd.