CHUU Kicks Off USA Tour in LA, Sharing Joyful Moments with Fans

Words + Photos by Emma Vurdien

December 8, 2023

CHUU at The Orpheum Theater in LA, Emma Vurdien/ab(CDE)

The much-loved K-pop star CHUU is kicking off her USA tour to meet her fans, known as "KKOTI." She recently expressed her excitement during a conversation with us at ab(CDE), eagerly anticipating meeting her fans after a long wait and wanting them to understand their importance to her. Her tour began last weekend at The Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles, marking the beginning of her shows across the country.

CHUU kicked off her performance on a strong note with two songs, 'My Palace' and 'Underwater,' both tracks off of her latest album "Howl." Her heartfelt vocals and passionate stage presence undoubtedly resonated with every member of the audience, creating an emotional connection during her show.

While engaging with her fans, CHUU showcased her impressive English proficiency, expressing her emotions with enthusiasm and clarity. Lightheartedly interacting with the translator, she even checked at times if her words were correct. Throughout the translations, CHUU visually acted out the interpreter's words in English, evoking smiles from her delighted audience. Next, she excitedly announced her wishes to perform 'comethru,' a track she collaborated on with American singer-songwriter Jeremy Zucker, who coincidentally just wrapped up his own USA tour. Encouraging her fans to join in, CHUU expressed her curiosity about Los Angeles' singing abilities, inviting them to participate in the song.

During the show, a comedy skit unfolded, showcasing CHUU’s journey to enhance her idol skills. The video portrayed CHUU seeking guidance from various "masters," each specializing in different talents like acting, dancing, and meditation. In the video, each character is acted out by CHUU herself in full costume. As she doesn't quite grasp what she expects from each mentor, the determined yet frustrated CHUU grows disheartened, amusingly questioning her fans, KKOTI, about whether they’re enjoying her hard journey. This video perfectly captures the endearing persona that CHUU has cultivated over the years—a delightful, down-to-earth idol cherished by her fans for her humor and charm.

Following that, CHUU emerges in a vibrant, new pink ensemble and delivers a fun performance of "Hitchhiker." The performance backdrop showcases an 8-bit design featuring CHUU. She explains how the visual mirrors the journey of someone facing challenges, something she feels her fans might connect with. Jokingly, CHUU mentions that the masters featured in the earlier video couldn't attend her show as they were occupied, and she humorously adds that she couldn't secure plane tickets for them due to their busy schedules.

CHUU, Emma Vurdien/ab(CDE)

Next, CHUU transitions into a drawing segment, adopting the persona of "CHUU Ross" in a playful nod to renowned painter Bob Ross. Using selected keywords, she sketches various images. The initial keywords—Disneyland, dancing, excitement—prompt her to illustrate. As she attempts to draw Mickey Mouse, CHUU encounters some difficulty and turns to the audience, questioning whether Mickey has a tail, garnering laughter from the crowd. The upcoming songs are special covers that CHUU believes her fans will thoroughly enjoy. She delighted the audience with her version of "White Christmas," adorned in a Santa hat and a cozy, fluffy-lined cape. CHUU shared that she personally bought these props in anticipation of the performance, considering it as her early Christmas present to everyone attending. Afterward, she dazzled the audience with an explosive and vibrant rendition of Taylor Swift's hit song "Shake It Off," igniting an energetic performance that had everyone enthusiastically jumping in their seats.

In a surprise for all, CHUU unveiled her song "Heart Attack," a pre-debut track that introduced her as a member of LOONA nearly six years ago. This performance of "Heart Attack" sparked joyous smiles among the audience, particularly the devoted Orbits who have faithfully followed CHUU on her solo journey after LOONA. After this nostalgic performance, CHUU took a moment to sincerely address the audience. She opened up about a challenging year, expressing her honest struggle with losing confidence and hope. CHUU credited her fans for being the motivating force that urged her to persevere. Wrapping up one of the most awaited moments of the evening, CHUU poured her emotions into a heartfelt performance of her title track, "Howl." As the show drew to a close, she dedicated time to engage with her fans and bid a sincere goodbye.

Overall, CHUU's first ever solo show in America was a union of both entertaining and poignant moments, showcasing her true character. Despite the personal struggles she discussed in the middle of the event, CHUU remains an influential figure in the K-pop realm—a resilient force and a comforting, genuine presence. Undoubtedly, her devoted fans resonate with her character and eagerly await to accompany her on her future journey.

Photos taken by Emma Vurdien (@emmafayev)

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