Mnet's 'National Sparkling Tour' saw the group MONSTA X truly captivate Gongju, Chungcheongnam-do.
On the 2nd (Tuesday), the fourth episode of Mnet's Idol Festa Operation 'National Sparkling Tour' (directed by Jo Hye-mi) was broadcast, featuring MONSTA X's activities as 'One-Day Acorn Ambassadors' heading to Gongju, Chungcheongnam-do. The journey, which included street promotions, acorn sales, pop-ups, and performances, deeply instilled the meaning of a true community cooperative festival throughout Gongju.
The broadcast opened with a surprise celebration party for MONSTA X, marking their 10th debut anniversary. A quiz show, which revisited MONSTA X's decade through a recreation of their debut photo time and cheer test, evoked meaningful memories. The destination the members were heading to was also unveiled. The final destination, which was figured out through various hints, was Gongju, Chungcheongnam-do. Appointed as 'One-Day Gongju Acorn Ambassadors,' MONSTA X received a mission to sell '990-won acorn sets' to fill the audience at their performance and expressed their cheerful determination to call the citizens of Gongju 'princesses.'
On the much-anticipated festival day, MONSTA X, arriving in Gongju, could not hide their worries about the heavy rain and unpredictable weather that continued until just before their arrival. The unexpectedly large size of the performance venue and the quiet street scenes heightened the members' tension. In the midst of this, Kim Jae-joong, a representative entertainer from Gongju, made a surprise appearance as a special guide, turning the atmosphere around. Kim Jae-joong played a solid support role, reminiscent of 'Gongju's Prince,' sharing sales strategies and on-site know-how with the members. Not only did he actively promote the performance, but he also enhanced the atmosphere with his shining veteran entertainment skills.
A guerilla mission conducted before the main pop-up added excitement. Split into three teams, they were tasked with selling acorns within 10 minutes. The Min-hyuk and Hyung-won team, recommended by Kim Jae-joong, concentrated on the express bus terminal, selling an impressive 174 sets, achieving a record result. The Jooheon and Kihyun team actively utilized social media for promotion, while Shownu sold 9 sets of acorns on his own while going around the library with his 'charisma.' After the mission, Shownu, who placed second, filmed a promotional video for acorns as a penalty, showcasing another unique charm.
The pop-up events were held in three locations: Jemingeon Village, known for its high foot traffic, and Gongju City Hall. The cloudy weather throughout the morning cleared up with the launch of the pop-up, and at the Gongju City Hall pop-up site, where Kim Jae-joong, Min-hyuk, and Hyung-won were present, a massive crowd gathered, demonstrating its immense popularity. The subsequent '10th Anniversary Limited Pop-up' was a special time for MONSTA X and their fandom, MONBEBE, to commemorate the 10th anniversary together. In particular, a lucky draw event and various fan events, such as eye contact and serenades, created unforgettable memories.
The finale performance truly marked the peak of the festival. MONSTA X heated up the stage with songs like 'GAMBLER,' 'Follow,' and 'Rodeo,' and the excitement reached its peak with the unique 'acorn time' and an encore stage shared with Gongju citizens and fans. The members, who succeeded in selling more acorns than expected, expressed heartfelt sentiments, saying, 'It was a tour where we could gain something sparkling.'
Gongju citizens and fans passionately responded to MONSTA X's stage. From a college fan who said, 'I endured watching MONSTA X videos since high school, and I'm so happy to see them in person,' to others expressing gratitude, stating, 'Gongju is a small place, so we rarely get the chance to see idols or entertainers, but I'm thankful Mnet showed us MONSTA X,' and 'This is unbelievable,' the positive feedback flowed in. Viewers are also praising the true cooperative festival created by MONSTA X, Gongju, and the local residents and fans.
Meanwhile, next week, the group TREASURE is set to head to Donghae to sell the local specialty 'rice,' raising expectations. Mnet's 'National Sparkling Tour' airs every Tuesday at 10 p.m.
[Photo] 'National Sparkling Tour'
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