KAIA Takes P-Pop to the K-Wave at 2026 ROUND Festival in Incheon
OPM singer-songwriter TJ Monterde also represented the Philippines, bringing his heartfelt hits to the international stage.
Filipino pop met the Hallyu wave as KAIA proudly raised the Philippine flag at the 2026 ROUND Festival in South Korea.
The quintet—composed of Angela, Charice, Alexa, Sophia, and Charlotte—delivered a solo set on the first day of the festival. The event, which took place from November 7 to 8 at Namdong Gymnasium in Incheon, featured acts from South Korea and all 10 member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
One of the highlights of KAIA’s set was their special stage with EVERGLOW. The collaboration, according to the girls, marked a full-circle moment since they used to cover the K-pop girl group’s music during their pre-debut days.
“It is truly an honor to be part of the ROUND stage. We take great pride in sharing our culture, music, and heritage with everyone through this incredible platform. We’re grateful for the opportunity to represent OPM,” the P-pop act wrote in a post. “Kayang-KAIA ng Pinas!”
Joining KAIA at the festival was OPM singer-songwriter TJ Monterde, who brought Filipino music to the spotlight on day two.
He performed his heartfelt acoustic tracks and reunited with Korean star 10CM for a special performance, following their previous appearance together at the Manila edition in April.
The Palagi hitmaker likewise received an award “in recognition of his participation and contribution to the celebration.”
Beyond the festival, KAIA shared Filipino music with even more international audiences through several engagements in South Korea. They connected with more of their supporters, the ZAIA, at a special fansigning and busking event, as well as showcased their heavenly live vocals aboard the Wish Bus. Aside from these, the P-pop girl group paid a courtesy visit to the Philippine Embassy in Korea, where they were warmly received by Ambassador Bernadette Fernandez and the rest of the Filipino team.
From soulful acoustics to high-energy pop, KAIA and TJ Monterde brought their distinct sounds to the global stage, leaving audiences eager to see what Filipino artists have in store for the world next.