MONSTA X Proves There's "No Limit" In the U.S.

After almost three years, MONSTA X and Monbebe were reunited recently for the 2022 U.S. Tour, “No Limit.” Fans, myself included, were beyond eager to see these K-pop phenoms on stage again, and MONSTA X did not disappoint. For some, it was their first time seeing MONSTA X; for others, it was one of many stops they were joining on this tour, and for a select lucky few, it was their chance to see MONSTA X on another North American tour.

This lucky writer attended not one but two days of the concert series in Chicago. Here’s my recap of the festivities.

The venue was alive with chatter as fans made their way to their seats. The energy was palpable as if you could reach out and touch it or capture it in a jar. As the start time of 7:30 PM inched closer and closer, an ad by the tour sponsor, Lexus, played, followed by some MONSTA X hits, including “Fantasia,” “Shoot Out,” and “Follow,” for fans to sing along to.

The lights go dark, and the crowd erupts as a VCR begins to play. As each member came on screen, the cheers from the crowd got louder and louder. Red lights shined across the stage and the crowd as if we were sneaking in to steal a prized jewel. Then, as if on queue, the MONSTA X logo flashed on the screen and started splitting open to reveal what we'd all been waiting for. Minhyuk, Kihyun, Hyungwon, Joohoney, and I.M. MONSTA X had returned to the U.S. for the first time in almost three years to a louder audience, a deeper discography, and infinitely more charisma than fans were prepared for.

The members were visibly thrilled to see fans. The last time they met fans in this capacity was August 10, 2019, at Staples Center in Los Angeles for the conclusion of their We Are Here World Tour. This was the third time their tour had been rescheduled due to the pandemic, so to say that their longing to tour again was overwhelming is an understatement.

Minhyuk, Kihyun, Hyungwon, Joohoney, and IM surprised fans with favorites, “Dramarama,” “Find You,” and “Play it Cool.” They performed a plethora of their newer songs (released during the pandemic) like “Love Killa,” “You Problem,” “Mercy,” and “Gambler.” And didn’t shy away from teasing fans that they only knew the spelling portion of Joohoney’s verses in their latest song, “LOVE.”

Aside from singing along at the top of our lungs to our favorite songs, what made this concert series truly special were the solo performances by each member. Hyungwon made fans drool with “Wildfire.” IM oozed sex appeal with “God Damn” and Happy to D1e.” Minhyuk dazzled fans with an expertly choreographed rendition of “ONGSHIMI.” Kihyun had his vocal prowess on full display with “Rain.” And last but certainly not least, Joohoney’s performance on his solo songs “Smoky” and “Voices” was a sight to witness in person.

One thing that was truly notable was Hi-Touch. MONSTA X is known to give each fan their undivided attention. They have kind eyes and speak with absolute truth and sincerity, so it’s easy to get lost in the moment if you don’t lose yourself first. Unfortunately, the latter happened to me. I forgot how to function, mumbled my way through the line, and was in a daze until the end. That just means I have to do it again, right?

From the opening song “Gambler” to the encore “Love You,” MONSTA X radiated energy and love throughout the entire night. They teased fans, had fun with their dancers, and gave some emotionally moving ments. Each member had their charms on full display for fans, blowing kisses, throwing finger hearts, and more. It’s honestly a surprise anyone survived. MONSTA X rocked the Chicago Theater and promised that the next time they come to Chicago, they will be in an even bigger venue.

Here’s hoping the next tour is bigger, longer, and includes all six members.

Did you catch MONSTA X while they were on tour?