AHOF, the 9-member K-pop boy group
formed through the hit survival show Universe League, met with the press
yesterday ahead of their much-awaited 1st Philippine FanCon: Rendezvous in
Manila happening today, August 30, 2025, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The group, which includes
Filipino member JL, has quickly risen in popularity not just for their diverse
backgrounds, strong visuals, and colorful personalities, but also for their
proven talent. Just seven days after debut, AHOF stunned the industry by securing
a music show win with their title track Rendezvous—a rare feat for
rookies.
During the press conference, each
member introduced and posed for the press before moving on to a lively Q&A. Fox Leader
Steven described their teamwork as “synergy,” a quality evident in the way
their unique personalities blend seamlessly on stage. When asked about lessons
from Universe League, the members said the survival show prepared them
for the pressures of performing and helped shape their resilience, which they need to have in this industry.
On their record-breaking music show win, maknae Daisuke admitted they were just as shocked as fans, but said the achievement only fueled their drive to push harder. Building on this, JL highlighted that they want their albums to reflect their versatility, as they wanted to explore multiple genres while continuing to define their sound. Looking ahead, Woongki playfully added that their doors are open to global collaborations — even with icons like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé — drawing laughter from the crowd while showing the group’s bold ambitions.
The group also charmed the media
with their growing love for Filipino culture. Jeongwoo made hearts flutter by
saying “Mahal Kita,” raved about Pancit Canton, and even gamely did the viral
Alden pose. Members also surprised many by naturally using the respectful
Filipino expression “po” in their answers. Their favorite local treat so far?
The country’s famously sweet mangoes.
Despite their growing global activities, AHOF expressed their excitement and nerves about performing at a huge venue. They were overwhelmed to learn tickets sold out in just 30 minutes and teased that they've prepared of a surprise performance just for their fans attending the FanCon.
Looking ahead, the members shared
that AHOF doesn’t just stand for their number—it also means All-Time Hall of
Famers. They hope to live up to the name by leaving a legacy both as
artists and individuals.
The presscon ended with AHOF giving a preview of today’s show, performing their award-winning Rendezvous and fan-favorite The Universe. The room lit up with their energy, proving exactly why they’ve become one of the fastest-rising names in K-pop.
As the group gears up to face a sold-out Araneta Coliseum tonight, one thing is clear: AHOF isn’t just here to perform, they’re here to make history once again.
Special thanks to SB Town and
AHOF’s agency for making this unforgettable press event possible and bringing
the group closer to their Filipino fans.
Photos: Karen Nequinto for Manila Concert Junkies
