Song Joong-Ki Talks ‘Vincenzo’ Season 2 and Partnership with IAM Worldwide
The Hallyu wave wasn’t just a phase for many Filipinos. In fact, it has become a lifestyle, as many aspects of South Korean culture has seeped into society- from food and apparel, to music and entertainment. So, it’s no surprise that many South Korean celebrities, such as K-Pop idols and K-Drama actors, have visited the country to meet with their fans, which are often a perk from their partnerships with local brands.
Last Saturday, another Hallyu superstar flew into Manila for his first-ever fan meet, and it was none other than Song Joong-Ki!
The actor is a household name in the South Korean entertainment industry, having starred in several well-known dramas and films such as “Descendants of the Sun” (DOTS), “Vincenzo,” and “Space Sweepers.” As one of Korea’s highest-paid actors, he was also part of several commercial deals—an ambassador to several well-known brands including Louis Vuitton, Hyundai, and TOPTEN10.
Earlier this year, the heartthrob sent his Filipino fans into a frenzy when he was announced as the new brand ambassador of IAM Worldwide, a local health and wellness company known for a variety of products from organic drinks to beauty and skincare items, to nutritional supplements. This partnership then led to the exciting event that happened last May 24 when the actor flew to Manila for his much-awaited fan meet.
The Beat Manila got to witness this exciting moment and even got the chance to get up close and personal with the Hallyu superstar during the pre-event press conference that took place at Conrad Manila. Joong-Ki looked fresh despite only arriving the night before as he sat down for an intimate Q&A with the media. When asked how his stay had been so far, he shared a touching moment from his first morning in Manila.
“I woke up at 7 AM because my baby video-called me,” he said. “I opened the curtain in my room and there was a really beautiful view—a lovely seaside view! I wanted to go out, but I couldn’t. *laughs* I really wanted to go to a traditional market or a supermarket, but I couldn’t go out, which made me a little sad. So, I just went to the gym, enjoyed my breakfast, and now I’m here.”
He also shared how he had always wanted to come to the Philippines and had heard many good things about it due to his Filipino friends back in Korea and in Italy where he and his wife lived.
“The Philippine people are so kind, and so friendly. Around 15 years ago, I was in Cebu for vacation, and now I’m here! Sadly, I have to leave tomorrow, so I can’t enjoy it. Next time, I want to come with my family because I heard there are many beautiful islands. Please recommend good places to go!”
In exchange, “Big Boss” (his codename in DOTS) also shared his recommendations when visiting South Korea, saying that in any new place, the most exciting part of a trip is enjoying the local fare.
The talented actor recommended going out to eat Samgyupsal (Korean pork barbeque), Galbi (grilled beef short ribs), and Bulgogi (Korean beef barbeque). He also shared how he would often take his foreign friends to Insadong, where you can find a lot of good Korean street snacks, and that visiting a traditional market like Kwangjang Sijang is a must.
Joong-ki earned the title of “flower boy” back in Korea, which pertained to his youthful good looks. We certainly can agree, even as the star walked out with a shocked expression on stage to face his Pinoy fans—also known as Ki Aile—for the first time. Ki Aile translates to “Ki’s Wings,” signifying his fans’ promise to support and uplift him. The actor mentioned pre-show how he wanted to show an “honest and natural side” to the fans, and that he’s excited to have fun with them at the event.
Good vibes filled the entire SM Mall of Asia arena from the start as impressive opening acts kept fans entertained. We witnessed stages by Sam Concepcion, Lara Maigue, and Kayla Rivera, who performed K-Pop songs and tracks from the soundtracks of the actor’s most beloved dramas like “Arthdal Chronicles” and “Reborn Rich.”
Song Joong-Ki has always been known for taking on roles that are daring and memorable. He tends to keep his acting profile diverse, playing a variety of characters including a Mafia lawyer, a soldier, and a doctor.
When asked if there are any other roles he would like to portray in the future, he told us that he would like to try the fantasy genre and play a vampire.
And speaking of roles, some media asked about a potential season 2 for fan-favorite drama, “Vincenzo,” to which the actor replied, “I think I have to call my writer and director. They should make a season 2. I loved my Vincenzo character so much and when I shot it in Korea, it felt freeing. I really enjoyed it and the comedy was really funny too! I loved it, so okay, I will call my writer.”
The fan meet event was indeed full of fun and charm as Joong-Ki participated in a series of interactive games with fans, and even showcased his floral arrangement skills, which he mastered in preparation for his role in the upcoming drama, “My Youth,” where he’ll be playing a florist. The beautiful bouquet was then gifted to a very lucky fan: Janice de Belen. The Filipina actress got to meet her ultimate K-Drama crush, and even had Joong-ki on one knee as he presented her the bouquet! Safe to say everyone was jealous of this lovely moment.
At the press conference, Joong-Ki also shared his appreciation for IAM Worldwide for making him part of their family and for allowing him to hold a fan meet in Manila.
“I am really blessed to be with IAM Worldwide. The previous stars that promoted the products, they’re really big stars, and it feels as if I’m part of their family too,” he said. “During the shoot, I was able to taste and experience the products. You can really feel that they are healthy and delicious. I have to promote them to Filipinos and do my job as an ambassador.”
To learn more about IAM Worldwide and their products, visit their website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Stay tuned for more of Song Joong-Ki's upcoming projects by following him on Instagram.
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