Lee Minhyuk, better known to K-pop fans as HUTA and a member of BTOB, is no stranger to the stage. With over a decade in the industry as a rapper, vocalist, dancer, and performer, he has long shared the spotlight with his group. But this time, London got to see something special – Minhyuk completely on his own.
His first-ever solo European tour, HOOK – WHO: KING, wrapped up in London, and thanks to ROOT Company’s efforts, fans experienced an intimate yet powerful show at the legendary Dingwalls – a venue that has hosted some of the biggest bands in music history. Even though the show started earlier than typical London gigs, the energy in the room was quite intense from the start.
Minhyuk started with V from his 2025 EP HOOK, a short but sharp performance packed with slick choreography. He followed with I’m Rare from 2022’s BOOM, stepping into full rapper mode. Sunglasses on and fashion-forward styling, the left-field trap production hit hard, and his confidence grew with every bar. Shadow left no doubt about his versatility, smoothly shifting between rap and vocals, tossing aside his glasses, engaging the audience, and punctuating the performance with high notes.
“What’s up, London! This is my first time on a European tour… I prepared a lot for this show. I need all your passion tonight!” he said, and the crowd happily obliged.
The rock version of Hang Out (너도? 나도!) brought explosive energy, proving he can own more than just hip-hop beats. Then he performed Real Game (Like Messi), where any early nerves disappeared entirely; from this point on, he owned the stage. 젖어 (Wet) brought back that classic idol-style choreography fans know from BTOB performances, and the crowd went wild.
BOOM followed with a groove-heavy arrangement that almost gave Pharrell-style vibes; smooth yet punchy and perfect for live performance.
In a softer moment, Minhyuk surprised everyone with a cover of Treat You Better by Shawn Mendes. It’s not an easy song to sing, but his chest voice carried it beautifully, offering a refreshing breather in the set. The vibe changed with Rosy and XOXO from HOOK. A chair, a quick outfit change, and suddenly the stage felt more intimate. These R&B-leaning tracks showed a warmer, more relaxed side of him. Dear My Spring (넌 나의 봄이야) added an old-school R&B feel, once again showing how effortlessly he moves between rap and vocals; something only years of experience can perfect. Between songs, Minhyuk chatted comfortably with fans, joking and laughing.
“Now I need more of your help – I need your singing voice!”
The night wouldn’t be complete without a tribute to his roots. He performed BTOB classics, including Only One For Me (2018) and Missing You (2017), drawing loud sing-alongs and plenty of emotional moments. Hearing these songs in such an intimate venue felt incredibly special. LOVE TODAY and the pop-EDM-trap flavoured Bora kept spirits high, complete with photo time and more playful interactions. His talk sections were more natural and felt less scripted, like hanging out with fans rather than following a strict program.
Then came the cheeky moment everyone will remember: Minhyuk shedding his top, giving full Channing Tatum energy, bringing that smooth, smouldering confidence.
The encore featured탈출각 (Break Free), 오늘 밤에(Tonight, with Melody), and HIGHER.
Minhyuk’s solo performance made it clear that everything he does – whether as a rapper, singer, dancer, or entertainer – is delivered with charisma and authenticity. His solo catalogue is remarkably diverse, and in such a simple, intimate setting, his talent truly shone.
If this was only his first European tour, one thing is certain: London will be ready when he comes back.
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Written by Maggie Gogler
Featured image © Maggie Zhu for View of the Arts
View of the Arts is an online publication dedicated to film, music, and the arts, with a strong focus on the Asian entertainment industry. As we continue to grow, we aim to deepen our coverage of Asian music while remaining committed to exploring and celebrating creativity across the global arts landscape.
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