After a 10-minute delay, Monsta X made their entrance to the open press conference held at Plaza Singapura despite a heavy downpour. Photo: Sherlyn Sim

Instead of stepping back to seek shelter from the rain, K-pop boyband Monsta X member Wonho swiftly leaned forward to wipe wet seats for lucky fans to sit on, touching them with his considerate and thoughtful actions.

Member Wonho cleaning seats that fans who were soaked in the rain had sat on with his jacket sleeves. Photo: Sherlyn Sim

The South Korean group was recently in town to headline the HSBC Women’s World Championship where they held an open press conference a day prior to the performance to speak to the media and fans.

From left to right: Monsta X members Jooheon, Shownu, Minhyuk, I.M., Kihyun, Hyungwon and Wonho greet Singaporean fans and media. Photo: Sherlyn Sim

Best known for their songs “Dramarama” and “Beautiful”, the 7-member group was formed through survival ranking show “No Mercy” in 2015. The group’s soaring popularity propelled them to clinch the prestigious “Disk Bonsang (Main Prize)” at Golden Disk Awards 2018 and “Best Concert Performer” from Mnet Asian Music Awards 2017.

The snake-like line of fans quickly gathered umbrellas to share while some whipped out their raincoats. Photo: Sherlyn Sim

In spite of the heavy downpour, a 500-strong crowd of young fans, also known as Monbebes, endured the rain to catch a glimpse of the stars.

17-year-old fan, Anna Wong, who admired the boyband for their relatable personalities and good looks, could not hide her disappointment at the situation.

“Everyone [fans] took out their umbrellas and we couldn’t see anything at all. I was very sad because I waited here for 3 hours for them,” she said.

Aside from huddling with fans in the rain, her schoolbag and belongings were soaked.

She added: “[This event] could have been done inside the mall where there’s a stage. So many more people could have been there to watch them. There were at least half or more than half that left because of the rain.”

From left to right: Monsta X members Minhyuk, I.M, Minhyuk, Hyungwon and Wonho tried to lighten the atmosphere by interacting with their fans. Photo: Sherlyn Sim

Nonetheless, she was thrilled to see the boyband, gushing: “I still can’t believe it’s happening. They’re so good looking and talented!”

Another fan, 24-year-old Leah Shannon, felt that no one was to blame for the unexpected situation.

“I mean if it’s an outdoor event, you can’t help it if it rains or not,” she said.

“The rain spoils the mood of the event because we were struggling to see anything especially when everyone put up their umbrellas. It’s not a fun experience but it can’t be helped.”

Although the members were seated under a sheltered tent, they were visibly concerned about the safety of their fans.

Member I.M. had previously shot a music video “Be My Friend” with fellow member Jooheon in Singapore last year. Photo: Kimberly Foo

English speaking member I.M. said: “Guys, don’t catch a cold! We’re really worried about the rain. Be healthy!”

He also cheekily added that he would want to rescue fans from the rain if he had sufficient time, earning a roar of cheers.

Thanking the crowd for coming, rapper Jooheon said that the overwhelming love and positive energy from fans are what motivates him.

With regard to the boyband’s future plans, member Kihyun shared that fans can expect a brand-new song and an upcoming 2nd World Tour.

“I hope we can do a concert in Singapore when it’s not raining!”