A Gentle Evening of Comfort, Honesty, and Music That Lingers

On March 14, 2026, South Korean indie sensation 10CM, led by vocalist Kwon Jeong Yeol, returned to Singapore for his highly anticipated 2026 10CM Asia Tour <To 10CM: Chapter 1>. The concert, held at the intimate Theatre at Mediacorp, was poised to be a highlight of the region’s live music calendar. However, the evening took an unexpected turn even before the first note was played, transforming into a profound testament to the artist’s integrity and the unwavering bond he shares with his dedicated fanbase, affectionately known as Centiners.

The pre-show atmosphere was tinged with a unique blend of anticipation and concern as Kwon Jeong Yeol took to the stage not to perform, but to address the audience directly. In a rare and deeply commendable display of transparency, he disclosed that his vocal condition was not optimal for the demanding performance planned. The sincerity with which he spoke resonated through the hushed hall. Recognizing the potential impact on the fan experience, 10CM, in conjunction with the event organizers, FriedRice Entertainment, made the unprecedented decision to offer a full refund to all ticket holders. This proactive and ethical stance, detailed via FriedRice Entertainment’s official Instagram, underscored a commitment to fan satisfaction that transcended commercial considerations. Despite this significant announcement, a palpable sense of resolve filled the air as Kwon Jeong Yeol affirmed his intention to proceed with the performance for his devoted Centiners, many of whom had traveled and planned extensively for this night.

The concert commenced with "Hotel Room," a track specially reimagined for the live setting, setting a gentle and welcoming tone. This was followed by the effervescent "It’s So Nice," a song that injects a dose of optimism and lightheartedness. The audience’s engagement grew palpably as 10CM transitioned into beloved fan favorites. "Americano," a signature song that has cemented his place in the Korean indie scene, elicited enthusiastic singalongs. The setlist continued to showcase his artistic evolution with a refreshingly reimagined version of "Island," demonstrating his consistent ability to breathe new life into his discography and keep his performances dynamic and engaging for long-time followers.

During his initial address to the crowd, Kwon Jeong Yeol expressed his profound eagerness to be back in Singapore and reconnect with his fans. His characteristic shy smile accompanied his words, and he extended a warm invitation for the audience to participate actively in the upcoming songs. He took a moment to teach the crowd a specific vocal phrase, "ah na jeoyo," encouraging them to echo it back, a simple yet effective way to foster a sense of collective participation and build anticipation for the next musical interlude.

This interactive segment culminated in the performance of "Hug Me," a song that became a powerful moment of shared emotion as Singapore’s Centiners responded in unison, their voices filling the venue and harmonizing with the artist. The emotional resonance continued with subsequent tracks like "Love in the Milky Way Cafe" and "Us." These songs, characterized by their introspective lyrics and soothing melodies, cultivated a serene, almost dreamlike ambiance within the Theatre at Mediacorp, allowing the audience to immerse themselves fully in the music and the shared experience.

Introducing a new phase of the concert, 10CM spoke of his personal excitement for the songs he was about to perform, highlighting them as particular highlights he had been looking forward to sharing on this tour. The performance of "Pet" was elevated by a charming use of a telephone as a prop, adding a touch of theatricality to the intimate performance. This was followed by "Mattress," another song that resonated deeply with the audience. Both tracks, presented with beautifully curated arrangements, offered a glimpse into why these particular songs hold such special significance for the artist, further deepening the audience’s connection to his narrative.

The mood subtly shifted with the introduction of "Stalker." As the song’s chorus swelled, the audience responded by illuminating the venue with their phone flashlights, transforming the hall into a breathtaking sea of shimmering lights. Their passionate singalong amplified the intensity of the performance, creating a visually stunning and emotionally charged moment. Following this, 10CM picked up his electric guitar, signaling a special surprise. He delivered a deeply moving and exclusive cover of Kit Chan’s iconic Singaporean anthem, "Home." This thoughtful and personal gesture, performed solely for his Singaporean Centiners, was met with profound appreciation and stood out as one of the most memorable and touching highlights of the evening, underscoring the artist’s respect and affection for his audience in this specific locale.

The concert’s momentum continued with "To Reach You" and "Gradation," weaving a tapestry of sound that captivated the attendees. As 10CM approached what he announced as the "last song," he playfully cautioned the audience against calling for an encore, subtly hinting that while it might be the final piece of the set, the night was far from over. This playful misdirection added an element of intrigue and anticipation for what was to come.

He then proceeded to perform "Phonecert" and "Spring Snow," leaving the audience suspended in a sweet, unspoken anticipation. True to his word, as the familiar chants for an encore began to rise from the crowd, 10CM made a surprise reappearance, popping up from behind the curtains to the delighted laughter and enthusiastic cheers of his fans, a moment that perfectly encapsulated the playful and intimate nature of the concert.

Returning to the stage for the encore, he captivated the audience with "Sseudam Sseudam." He then invited his fans to join him once more, leading a reprise of "Hug Me." This second rendition felt even more tender and emotionally resonant than the first, a testament to the deepened connection forged throughout the night. Expressing his heartfelt gratitude, 10CM conveyed how deeply touched he was by the fans who chose to stay until the very end, reaffirming his promise to return to Singapore as soon as his schedule allowed, a commitment that was met with resounding applause.

To bring the unforgettable evening to a close, 10CM performed an OST medley, featuring the poignant "Drawer" and the hopeful "Tell Me It’s Not a Dream." This segment served as a beautiful tribute to the dramas to which he has contributed, leaving the audience with a deeply emotional and reflective conclusion to the concert.

In retrospect, the 2026 10CM Asia Tour <To 10CM: Chapter 1> in Singapore transcended the boundaries of a conventional concert. It evolved into an experience far more profound, characterized by unwavering sincerity, a remarkable act of integrity regarding vocal condition and ticket refunds, and an intimate connection that resonated deeply between the artist and his devoted audience. The event served as a powerful reminder of the authentic and meaningful exchanges that can occur between performers and their fans when built on a foundation of mutual respect and honesty.

The 2026 10CM ASIA TOUR <To 10CM: Chapter 1> in Singapore was proudly presented by FriedRice Entertainment Singapore. This report extends gratitude to FriedRice Entertainment Singapore for the media invitation facilitating this coverage.

Words by Naw Thet Nwe Oo.
Image Source: FriedRice Entertainment Singapore