How NBSB actress pulls off portraying rom-com’s lovestruck heroine

Devon Seron

When her two Korean costars, Hyun Woo and Jun-hyung, arrive in Manila on Sept. 25, “You With Me” lead actress Devon Seron said she’d love to take them to different scenic places.

“I wish we’d have time to go to Cebu, my home province. I brought some dried mangoes to Korea, and they both enjoyed them. I’d make them try out other local delicacies when they’re finally here. I’d like them to try lechon Cebu, too,” she told reporters.

Hyun Woo rose to fame via the KBS (Korean Broadcasting System) program “The Gentlemen of Wolgyesu Tailor Shop,” while Jin Ju-hyung became popular by way of the KBS show, “Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth.”

The two Korean stars will be seen alongside Devon in Rommel Ricafort’s rom-com, “You With Me,” which begins its theatrical run in local theaters starting Sept. 27.

Devon said about 80 percent of the film was shot in Korea. Working there for over a month has taught her a lot as an actor, and there were Korean film production practices that she wished Filipinos would eventually adapt.

“They’re very disciplined. I guess it’s because men there go on compulsory military training,” she observed. “The actors there would first try to understand every detail of their work before tackling it. This required several line readings. Also, they do not work beyond 10 p.m.”

Devon said adjusting to the cold climate in Korea was the toughest for her. “I get cold easily. In fact, everyone kept saying the weather was already at its highest, but I was still shivering and wearing a jacket. I had no problem adjusting to their food and the public transport system.”

When asked how she was able to effectively portray being in love, despite admitting to having zero experience in romantic relationships, Devon said, “The boys provided ample reasons for me to always feel all-giddy inside. All I had to do was stare at their beautiful faces. They’re both very charming. And while I’ve not had any boyfriend since birth, that doesn’t mean I’ve never had any guy court me. So, I’d internalize and just recall those experiences.”

“You With Me” director Rommel then said the two men appeared to be genuinely smitten by Devon. The 23-year-old actress dismissed this by saying: “I guess, aside from being naturally sweet and caring, they just wanted to make me feel comfortable. I felt self-conscious in the beginning. But, later, I realized their sincerity.

“They’re respectful, even to my parents, who were present during the shoot. They adapted our tradition of pagmamano (bowing to and receiving blessings from the elders),” Devon recalled. “We still communicate even after we wrapped up filming. I’m proud to say that the three of us were able to form a unique bond.”

Has her experience with the two Koreans changed her standards when it comes to choosing a romantic partner? “Not really,” Devon pointed out. “I don’t care about a guy’s nationality. I just want a caring, respectful and God-fearing man. It’s important that he is well-mannered. I hope he comes into my life soon.”