[OSENWORLD] MONSTA X is making a powerful return to mark their 10th anniversary—with a full-group concert and a new album on the horizon.
On July 16, the group held a press conference at the Grand Ballroom of Conrad Seoul in Yeouido to celebrate their upcoming anniversary concert, 2025 MONSTA X CONNECT X. For the first time in years, all members appeared together in front of the press, kicking things off with cheerful banter.
“I lost about 4 to 5 kilograms just for today,” said Joohoney with a smile. Kihyun chimed in, “I didn’t manage to lose weight, but I did get a quick down perm yesterday.”
Hyungwon added, “I came prepared for every camera angle—left, right, and center,” while Minhyuk quipped, “I couldn’t lose weight, but I did go to the dermatologist yesterday.”
A Decade of Hits and Hard Work
Since their debut in May 2015 with the mini album Trespass, MONSTA X has built a reputation for electrifying performances and hits like “DRAMARAMA,” “Shoot Out,” “Love Killa,” “Alligator,” and “GAMBLER.” Fans affectionately call them “trust-and-watch performers”—a phrase used for artists known for delivering consistent, high-quality music and performances.
After a staggered hiatus for military service—starting with leader Shownu in 2021—all members except I.M have now completed their enlistment and returned as a full group this May.
Members Reflect on 10 Years Together
Reflecting on the milestone, Minhyuk said, “We’ve been asked a lot about the 10th anniversary. I didn’t really feel it at first, but today it’s sinking in. I’m overwhelmed and emotional.”
Hyungwon expressed gratitude, saying, “We’ve managed to stay together for 10 years, and I’m thankful to our members for their efforts and to our fans—without them, we wouldn’t be here.”
Shownu added, “Looking back on everything, it really hits me how far we’ve come. I’m truly grateful to the fans.” Kihyun, who recently finished his service, shared, “It still doesn’t feel real, but this moment is an incredible gift. I’m thankful to the members and the fans, and I plan to stay focused on what lies ahead.”
“I remember thinking our 10th anniversary felt so far away,” said I.M. “Now that it’s here, I still can’t believe it. I’m just incredibly thankful to the fans and to the members who are always by my side.”
Joohoney shared how his military service aligned with this milestone: “When I enlisted, I kept thinking, ‘When will I be discharged?’ Then I realized it would be 2025—the year of our 10th anniversary. That thought kept me going throughout my service. Now that I’m back, I want to thank our fans, the members, and everyone at Starship. We’re preparing a big surprise for our anniversary, so please look forward to it.”
Unforgettable Moments From Their Journey
When asked about their most unforgettable memories, Kihyun named their debut stage: “For some reason, I can still picture our first performance of ‘Trespass’ vividly. I think it’ll stay with me for the rest of my life.”
Shownu recalled an early performance at KCON LA: “The venue was massive, and the crowd’s energy was unforgettable.” Hyungwon mentioned their first world tour: “Meeting fans around the globe for the first time left a deep impression.” Minhyuk added, “What stands out to me is a mini fan meeting we had at a park after a music show. The intimacy of that moment was so special.”
/k_inside@osen.co.kr
