South Korean actor Ji Chang-wook during his 'Moments with Ji Chang-wook' fan meeting at the Araneta Coliseum, August 4, 2024. Photos by Rose Carmelle Lacuata, ABS-CBN NewsFrom intimate conversations to affectionate back hugs, South Korean heartthrob Ji Chang-wook sent his Filipino supporters into a whirlwind of “kilig” (happiness or excitement) during his recent fan meeting in Manila.

Organized by local clothing brand Bench, the event, aptly titled “Moments with Ji Chang-wook,” was a magical evening where the actor charmed fans with unforgettable and heart-fluttering interactions.

Clad in a simple white Bench shirt and jeans, Chang-wook exuded an undeniable charisma as he took the stage for the opener: a performance of his song “Kissing You” from the web series “7 First Kisses.” The Araneta Coliseum erupted in deafening screams as the actor made his grand entrance.

“After such a long time, I was able to come back here in the Philippines and meet my Filipino fans. Thank you so much for warmly welcoming me,” Chang-wook, who previously went to the country in 2022 for his “Reach You” fan meet, said following the opening number.

Though the fan meet was brief, running for only over an hour, Chang-wook made every moment count for up-close and personal interactions. In one segment, fans, including one who wore a wedding gown-inspired attire, went up on stage to seek their idol’s advice on matters related to relationships and career.

Upon coming face-to-face with Chang-wook, one fan exclaimed, “Papa Jesus, ang gwapo! (Jesus, he’s so handsome!)” and later told him, “‘Wag mo ako titigan (Don’t stare at me).” Clearly starstruck, the fan, who inquired about balancing work and exhaustion, did not wait for the interpreter to finish translating the actor’s advice before exiting the stage.

He continued to delight fans by posing for photos with audience members shown on the venue’s screens. He also went the extra mile by fulfilling their wishes written on sticky notes, including taking selfies and sending video greetings to their mothers.

Chang-wook brought fans’ dreams to life by recreating iconic scenes from his dramas with them. One lucky fan got to relive a moment from the romantic comedy “Welcome to Samdal-ri,” which ended with her giving the actor a back hug. So engrossed in the moment, the fan was reluctant to let go even when host Sam Oh called cut.

Fans also surprised Chang-wook with a heartfelt video featuring their messages of love and support. Several audience members then began singing “Laundry” by Lee Juck, with the actor later joining in.

Before closing the evening with his performances of “Even Though I Loved You” from the musical “The Days,” and “Watch Over You” from his series “Healer,” Chang-wook expressed his gratitude to his fans, saying they gave him strength. 

“I’m actually very happy that it was a very fun fan meeting today. I think I gained a lot of strength because you guys loved it also,” he said.

“I also realized that I’d really love more opportunities to come to the Philippines to meet you more often.”

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