Seo Kang-joon
Despite having starred in various popular drama series that earned him fans all over the world, Korean singer-actor Seo Kang-joon still doesn’t see himself as an international artist.
“Honestly, I don’t think of myself as an international star yet. But the title really humbles me … And I just really want to thank everyone of you who considers me like one,” Kang-joon said through an interpreter at a press conference a day prior to his fan meeting at the New Frontier Theater last Saturday.
“Such title motivates me to do my best in every project possible; and to portray different aspects of me in my upcoming projects,” said the 25-year-old celebrity, who made a lucky group of giggly, giddy fans at the media event swoon with every bit of gesture he did or words he let out.
When he timidly said that people tell him his eyes were his best physical features, the fans dissolved in a chorus of lovestruck shrieks. And when he said that his “honesty” was one of his best qualities as a person, they applauded and nodded their heads in approval.
It was only fitting, needless to say, that his fan meeting was titled “The Last Charm.”
Kang-joon, who’s a member of the K-pop band 5urprise, made his acting debut in 2013. His rise to fame started after taking part in the TV series “Cheese in the Trap” in 2016.
Kang-joon has since starred in such shows as “Entourage” and “Third Charm,” which is currently available on Netflix.
Aside from the fan meeting, he also promoted his hit 2018 sci-fi drama “Are You Human?,” which is now airing weeknights as part of GMA 7’s Telebabad/Heart of Asia block.
The rest of the Q&A with Kang-joon:
How do you feel about “Are You Human?” airing here in the Philippines? It’s been a while since this has been filmed. But when I heard that it was going to be aired in the Philippines, I became very excited, but also nervous, because I just want to give the Filipino fans the best projects. I’m excited to hear their feedback.
Kang-joon in Manila
It has sci-fi elements, bits of romantic comedy and is also quite political. But I want the Filipino fans to be able to relate to my character because it has a lot of aspects to it that we all can relate to.
What’s your impression of your Filipino fans? Everyone is so beautiful here and very friendly.
How do you connect with your fans? I connect with my fans through social media and through fan meetings.
What do you think draws Pinoys to you and Koreanovelas in general? One big reason is that we always have this mindset of wanting to please our international fans. It’s no longer just for the Korean people, but also the Filipino and international fans.
Tell us more about your projects in Korea and what should your Filipino fans watch out for? I just came back from filming in Korea. The show is going to be out soon and it’s a thriller called “Watcher.”
I play Yeong-goon, who has had to overcome hardships in life.
If your life story were to be made into a movie, what genre would it be and why? It would probably be a documentary—I don’t think my life is horror material (laughs)! It’s going to be about a guy who grew up trying his best to make it in society. He became an actor who loves what he does. He keeps going until he eventually leaves a mark.
What made you decide to visit the Philippines and hold a fan meeting here? I’m honored to get an opportunity like this because it’s not something I could’ve done by myself.
I’ve never been to the Philippines before this. A big reason for doing this is because I wanted to meet my Filipino fans. It means so much to me. I’m excited to get to know them, not just as an artist but as a human being, as well.