'Hot Topic for Fan Love' THE BOYZ's Eric, Expectations for the 'All-Around Maknae's' Solo [K-POP Report]

[IZE | Reporter Han Su-jin] Eric of the group THE BOYZ is getting ready to set up his own stage in his new home. He will open the first chapter of his solo journey with fans through 'The B Festa,' which combines a photo exhibition with his first domestic solo fan meeting. Anticipation is high for Eric's performance as he fills the stage, transforming from the youngest member of THE BOYZ into a full-fledged solo artist.

The Boyz have undergone many changes this year. Despite conflicts with their agency and changes in the member lineup, the nine members, including Eric, have agreed to continue team activities. Their plan is to stand on stage together as The Boyz while preparing for their individual activities. In addition to team activities, Eric, who signed an exclusive individual contract with Grid Entertainment last August, also appears to be gearing up for his solo career in earnest.

The color of his new agency is also worth noting. While most members of The Boyz have found new homes at actor management agencies, Eric chose Grid, a music-focused agency home to the idol group POW. From the direction of the agency itself, one can sense his determination to create his own unique music and stage as a singer.

He has steadily built up the material to showcase. Eric, who debuted as the youngest member of The Boyz in 2017, has handled dance, rap, and vocals, and has also participated in songwriting and rap making for various albums. The fact that he has expanded the scope of his expression from performance to singing and composition is likely to be a strength in his solo activities as well. He can now unfold his charms more freely and deeply by highlighting his own tastes and style, whereas he previously showed them little by little within the team's color and fixed parts.

The stage to showcase these capabilities and charms to domestic fans is the solo fan meeting 'Boys Over Flowers Son Young-jae,' held on November 14. This is Eric's first solo fan meeting in Korea, following the successful completion of his solo fan meetings 'Eternity' in three Chinese regions—Shanghai, Beijing, and Qingdao—after joining GRIDD. Eric's personal taste is evident starting with the title, which combines his real name with his favorite drama, 'Boys Over Flowers.' The event features new special stages, performances fans have been wanting to see, heartfelt talk, and even a 'proposal' themed event. With both shows selling out completely, the anticipation for the stage Eric will fill alone has also been confirmed.

Eric's love for his fans is particularly well-known among K-pop fans. Recently, a post compiling moments of him reading letters from fans while traveling, checking on fans on their way home, and expressing his gratitude via messages went viral on online communities. Expectations are high for how Eric, who has always looked after his fans even in small moments, will convey his feelings at this fan meeting.

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