Photos from sjeventsph/X
Picture this: a pocket garden, not just a bunch of plants, but a living love letter from ELFs to Super Junior. It’s like the group has a secret admirer—a whole community of them, actually. And it’s a story that’s as heartwarming as it is extraordinary!
Everlasting Friends (ELFs) in the Philippines have turned their passion into a paradise, where their unwavering love for the group is not just spoken but blossoms into a tangible, serene space that’ll make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Because when ELFs put their hearts into it, it’s not just a garden; it’s a sanctuary that screams, “Super Junior, we’re your biggest fans, and we’ve got the garden to prove it!”
And yes, you can pay a visit to this Super Junior haven in Rizal Park!
Within the Kanlungan ng Sining Garden, you can find the 10 sq. m. area that captures the essence of friendship, dedication, and the global phenomenon of SJ, all made possible by SJ Events PH.
Thinking about creating more green spaces in Metro Manila, the fandom also wanted to create something permanent that can grow with the passage of time.
The Sapphire Blue bench
The main feature of the garden is the sapphire blue (fandom’s color) bench. Why a bench, you ask? Well, it’s not just any bench; it’s a safe space inspired by how Super Junior wraps fans in a comforting embrace during life’s chaotic moments.
“We wanted this bench to serve as a symbol of this. We hope that park goers will be able to rest and relax in that bench whenever they need to.”
But here’s the kicker—the backrest is no ordinary backrest. It’s a tiny brass plate, etched with the wisdom of Super Junior’s “Believe.” Translated lyrics spin a tale of endurance, urging fans to ponder happy memories and trust in the shared gardens of each other’s hearts.
“We now consider that pocket garden as a special place for Suju and their fans,” they expressed. “It became a pilgrimage site for fans who visit Manila. At the same time, it has become a place that we fans can be proud of because hopefully this can also inspire the other fandoms to do the same and try creating projects for the environment.”
Life’s an ongoing party, and SuJu’s the DJ
Celebrating the group’s 18th anniversary through this project, the fandom, primarily consisting of adults in the working class, reflects on the unique role the idol group plays in their lives.
As a collective of mature individuals navigating the expectations of adulthood, Super Junior becomes a source of inspiration and a refreshing reminder that it’s acceptable to embrace the child-like aspects of life and simply have fun.
“They remind us that life will just keep getting better as long as we work hard and know how to have fun.”
Thus, the SJ garden not only pays homage to Super Junior and their dedicated fandom but also stands as a testament to the enduring power of music and art to provide solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging for those who seek refuge in its embrace.
Because, why not make the world a little more fabulous while spreading K-pop love?