Korean actor Wi Ha Joon was grateful for his first fan meet-and-greet event in Manila.
Ha Joon, known for his role in the hit Netflix series Squid Game, expressed to the members of the press on May 20, 2023, that he was honored to visit the country for the first time to meet his Filipino fans.
Read also: Netflix announces Squid Game renewed for second season
As soon as Ha Joon arrived, he was captivated by the warmth of both the weather and the Filipino people, saying, "Actually, I’m nervous right now, but also very happy to be here with you.
"My first impression of the Philippines since I arrived is its warmth—the warmness of the weather and the eyes of the Filipinos. The people are very welcoming."
When asked about his dream destinations in the country, he replied, "I think my answer wouldn’t change, that I would love to visit Boracay and Cebu, have a vacation over there."
Of course, his itinerary would include a visit to some branches of fashion brand BENCH, of which he is an ambassador.
He said, "Sometimes my fans would send me pictures of themselves standing in front of posters of me wearing BENCH clothing in the stores.
"I personally want to visit these stores and see the clothes myself."
ON THE IMPACT OF SQUID GAME
Reflecting on the tremendous impact that Squid Game had on his life, Ha Joon admitted that the show allowed him to explore new opportunities and try things he had never done before.
"And I can say that through Squid Game, I got the opportunity to sit here together with you and work with BENCH as well."
Among all of his projects, Ha Joon felt most connected to his character as Hwang Jun Ho.
"I think the role that is most similar to my personality would be, Hwang Jun Ho of Squid Game," he shared.
"Because when I was preparing for this role, the people around me were telling me, ‘Wow, you’re really similar to that role.’
"I also agree with that because I myself, I also have this sense of justice and I tend to be a very consistent person when it comes to things that I really want to resolve."
Read also: Squid Game actor Wi Ha Joon likes Darren Espanto's Halloween costume
SUPPORT FROM FAMILY, FRIENDS
Outside of his acting career, Ha Joon leads a relatively simple life.
"I actually do nothing because I just spend time at home. And then if I have the time, I go work out.
"I have this circle of friends that I'm really close with. I really enjoy going to cafes around my area, enjoy, talk with them, chat with them. I think that's how I spend my free time."
How does he stay grounded amid fame and success?
Ha Joon answered, "Whenever I feel anxious and I'm worried, I tend to really rely on my parents."
The 31-year-old model further talked about the profound sense of fulfillment he gets from having a strong familial bond.
"Of course the most rewarding feeling that I have is when I see my family enjoying my projects the most," he stated.
"So when I see them enjoy, I really feel rewarded and I have this feeling of joy, and, of course, this family, being able to have a family. This itself is very rewarding for me, as an actor."
SOLID FAN BASE
Ha Joon is also appreciative of his dedicated fan base, which has been instrumental in his journey as an actor.
"I really have no other words to say to my Filipino fans than ‘I’m very thankful to each and every one of them,’ :he expressed.
He acknowledged the fans' dedication , mentioning the Wi Ha Joon fan account on Instagram.
The South Korean star said, "I look at this religiously every day.
"I check out their posts, and I really see that there isn’t a day that they don’t post.
"They always post about me, they also send cheerful and motivational messages for me through their stories."
He added, "I look at them always and I feel very motivated through that. That is why, in this opportunity that I have to meet my fans, I would love to do everything I can to also make them happy."
Aside from Squid Game, Ha Joon also made waves with his phenomenal performance in Bad and Crazy, Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum, Shark: The Beginning and Midnight, 18 Again, and Little Women.
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