It’s not every day that a member of NCT Dream graces Kuala Lumpur, but on April 26, 2025, Chenle did just that—making waves as the newly minted “Friend of CHAGEE.” For both Malaysian fans and the wider K-pop community, this partnership wasn’t just another celebrity endorsement; it felt like a celebration of fandom, flavor, and a little bit of magic.
CHAGEE, known for its premium tea beverages, pulled a major move by naming Chenle as its “Friend.” The announcement set social media alight, especially once it was confirmed that Chenle would be coming to Malaysia for an exclusive meet and greet at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur’s main entrance. Fans immediately began scrambling for a chance to see their idol in person, with meet-and-greet tickets quickly becoming the hottest commodity in town.
This collaboration is more than a marketing gimmick. It taps into the deep connection between K-pop idols and their fans, using Chenle’s genuine enthusiasm to bridge cultures. For CHAGEE, the partnership signals a shift towards a younger, trend-savvy audience, and for Chenle, it’s another chance to show his love for tea and connect with fans in a personal way.
To mark this partnership, CHAGEE introduced a brand-new drink: the Hojicha Genmai Milk Tea. The beverage, a blend of roasted Hojicha and nutty Genmai (toasted rice), was launched in Malaysia on April 18, just ahead of Chenle’s visit. Each purchase of two large Hojicha Genmai Milk Teas came with exclusive Chenle-themed goodies—a subtle nod to the collectible culture K-pop fans know so well.
The drink itself feels like a metaphor for the collaboration: familiar yet fresh, traditional yet modern. Chenle’s presence at the launch event only made the moment sweeter, as fans lined up for a taste of the new flavor—and, let’s be honest, a chance to catch a glimpse of their favorite idol.
On the morning of April 26, fans gathered at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, buzzing with anticipation. CHAGEE’s event wasn’t just a typical product launch; it was a celebration, complete with exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities and a sea of NCTzens waving banners and lightsticks.
The highlight for many came when Chenle decided to make the experience even more memorable by learning and using two new Malay words: “mantap” (awesome) and “sedap” (delicious). Each time he uttered these words—whether describing the new drink or hyping up the crowd—the venue erupted with cheers. It was a small gesture, but it meant the world to fans, showing just how much Chenle values local culture and connection.
Another unforgettable moment happened when fans started calling Chenle “CHAGEEya”—a playful blend of CHAGEE and the Korean endearment “자기야” (jagiya, meaning “darling” or “honey”). The nickname quickly caught on, filling the venue with laughter and warmth. Chenle seemed both amused and touched by the creativity, and the nickname became a running joke throughout the event, making the atmosphere feel even more intimate and fun.
There was also a moment that sent waves of excitement through the crowd: when a fan asked about the possibility of NCT Dream’s The Dream Show 4 (TDS4) coming to Kuala Lumpur. Chenle, ever the tease, answered with a knowing smile—hinting that while nothing is confirmed, he’d love for the group to perform in Malaysia again. His response kept hope alive and left fans buzzing with anticipation for what might be on the horizon.
Chenle’s appearance brought an electric energy to the venue. He greeted fans, shared stories about his love for tea, and even participated in some on-stage activities that had the crowd roaring with laughter.
To many, it didn’t matter whether they got a selfie or just a wave—what counted was being part of a moment that blended the best of K-pop stardom with the warmth of Malaysian hospitality.
This event is a prime example of how K-pop and lifestyle brands are creating experiences, not just advertisements. For fans, Chenle’s partnership with CHAGEE offered a new way to feel close to their idol—by literally sharing a cup of his favorite tea. For CHAGEE, it was a masterstroke, introducing their brand to new audiences while strengthening loyalty among existing fans.
As K-pop idols like Chenle become ambassadors for global brands, we’re seeing more than just product endorsements. We’re seeing culture, community, and creativity coming together—one cup at a time.
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to CHAGEE for bringing joy to Malaysian NCTzens through the CHAGEE CHENLE event and for graciously inviting our team, MYKPOPHUNTRESS, to be part of this special occasion. Your dedication in making it possible for us to meet CHENLE has touched our hearts deeply. In a time when many fans have been missing him, this precious opportunity to see him up close meant the world to us. Thank you for creating such beautiful memories and for your thoughtful consideration of Malaysian fans. Your efforts in organizing this special gathering have truly made our dreams come true.
