Kunpimook Bhuwakul, a.k.a. BamBam, is a Thai singer and rapper based in South Korea and a member of the KPOP boy group GOT7. In 2021, he made his debut as a solo artist with the song ‘riBBon’. For his first world tour, he chose the Philippines as his first stop in Asia. On September 21, 2023, he held his Press Conference and Fan Sign event for “2023-2024 BamBam 1st World Tour Area 52 in Manila” at Gateway Mall, Cubao.
Filipino fans were shouting and expressing their love and support as BamBam showed up on stage. With the warm welcome of the fans, BamBam instantly introduced himself as a member of GOT7, and according to him, he was having a good time here in Manila and was really excited. He prepared a lot for his concert here because it was going to be a festival.
BamBam explained why he chose the name “AREA 52” for his world tour. He claimed that he loves the concept of UFOs, aliens, or anything extraterrestrial, which was the inspiration for the name, as well as the fact that he was born on May 2, which has the numbers 5 and 2, which, when combined together, is 52.
Aside from his famous “Shot Puno!”, he also learned a new Filipino phrase, “Hi, mga beshy ko!” which means “Hi to all my besties!”
After his introduction, he was asked several questions:
This is your first-ever solo world tour. How are you preparing for this one, and how do you usually overcome the pressure and attention of performing on stage all by yourself?
“I’ve prepared a lot of stuff. You guys know I released a lot of songs and a lot of new stuff, and I always wanted to show it, but I didn’t have a chance. So this world tour is a kind of way to prove to myself that I can do a lot (of things). So when I’m super nervous and excited, I just drink Red Bull, and that’s it.”
You already released three albums as a solo artist; what is your favorite song from all the albums?
“I think it’s gonna be ‘riBBon’ because it’s a song that makes me who I am today. I think it’s the perfect song for me (and) for a single debut because I can expressed myself (in this song) and wanted to let you know more about who I am through a song.”
As you think of Manila as the first country to start your Asia tour, what are your expectations?
“As a KPOP artist, the reason that the first stop I chose was Manila is because… I’m not gonna lie! Last year, the time that I came here with Jackson, you guys made me really impressed, and then, you know, I love your energy so much that I want to feel the heat before starting a world tour, so I chose Manila for the best experience.”
What kind of experience are you going to provide in your solo concert tomorrow?
“It’s more than a concert; it’s not like coming out dancing and singing. It’s more than that! It’s like a time when you can really communicate with each other. You guys will know tomorrow!”
BamBam teases his Filipino fans about the song he has prepared for them for his concert tomorrow.
What song are you excited to perform for your Filipino fans tomorrow?
“I can’t say! But you know what? It’s starting raining outside.”
How would you describe your Filipino fans, and what song from your album ‘Sour and Sweet’ would you dedicate to them?
His fan-signing session for the lucky concert ticket holders began following the press conference. In the world of K-pop, fan signings stand out as one of the most intimate and cherished interactions between idols and their devoted fans. Undoubtedly, BamBam and his fans get up close and personal, showing the strong bond between them. His Filipino fans had the opportunity to exchange words with BamBam and even received personalized autographs, which surely hold immense emotional significance for them.
BamBam’s press conference and fan signing event in Manila have become a dream come true for all his Filipino fans. It allows them to express their admiration directly to BamBam and create memories that will last a lifetime. His Filipino fans describe this experience as life-changing, and the emotional connection formed during these brief moments is deeply cherished.
For a better fan experience, you can also access the full video of BamBam’s Press Conference and some highlights from his Fan Sign event.
We would like to thank IME PHILIPPINES for inviting us!
