Show Review: Kai has that magnetic allure and sensual energy that doesn’t disappoint

Magnetic. If there’s any artist who embodies the very essence of that word, it would be EXO’s Kai.

Born Kim Jong-in, the 31-year-old singer flaunted dance moves, irresistible charms and sensual energy at his Singapore show yesterday (21 Jun).

Performing a solo set as part of his solo concert tour, Kaion, at The Star Theatre yesterday, something about him is so alluring, almost hard to describe in words.

Playing a mix of solo hits and EXO tracks, here are three highlights from his show.

He knows his fans well

After fourteen years, Kai undeniably knows his fanbase well.

He opted to kick off his set in a vibrant red see-through outfit. For those in the know, red is his signature colour, especially after his performance of Love Shot in a red two-piece suit had gone viral.

As if starting the show with battle armour, Kai gave it his all in the show’s first segment. This included hits like Mmmh (2020) and Ride or Die (2020).

Midway into the set, he also introduced his newest releases, like Adult Swim (2025) and Wait on Me (2025).

The man of the hour then dialled the notch down a little while paying homage to iconic EXO tracks. Compiling My Lady (2013), Baby, Don’t Cry (2013), and Angel (2014), Kai invited fans to sing along while he performed new dance choreographies to the slower tunes.

Irrisistible charms

It’s almost impossible to walk away from Kai’s show without acknowledging his irresistible charms. While he’s always so passionate during his sets, he has quite a different persona when not performing.

 

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As he concluded the first few songs of the evening, he raised his hands and chuckled. “Hello everyone, it’s me, Kai!” he said.

“Welcome to my first concert, and we’re here in Singapore, the fourth city now,” he added, still catching his breath after a rigorous dance routine, before letting out a laugh.

He also had that funny bone in him. I’m not sure if he was in touch with Gen-Zs, or if it was the TikTok doomscroll that got to him.

Taking suggestions on local delights, he asked: “Do you know any ‘hidden gems’ in Singapore?” Well, I don’t have the answer, but the hidden gem has got to be Kai himself, right?

Sensual energy

Is it a Kai concert without that touch of sensual energy? He knows his strengths (and we’re talking visuals), as he put on a pair of spectacles during Vanilla (2021).

During Peaches (2021), he also chose to perform in front of white see-through curtains, drowning in a deep purple light. Setting the mood right, he didn’t forget to pepper in hip thrusts and floor work.

My favourite part of the show had to be Bomba (2023). Kai loosens his tie, a few occasional gyrations, and the rest is history.