Manila welcomed South Korean superstar Hyun Bin with open arms this week, as the actor made his first visit to the Philippines, leaving an indelible mark on fans and media alike. During a press conference on Friday, August 8, at the Solaire Resort in Parañaque City, Hyun Bin expressed his awe at the heartfelt reception he received, highlighting the warmth of Filipino hospitality and his delight in tasting the iconic dish adobo.
A Heartwarming Welcome
Hyun Bin, known globally for his role in the hit Korean drama “Crash Landing on You” shared his initial impressions of the Philippines with a gathered crowd of journalists. “The Philippines has always been on my list, and I did not have much time yet to go around and kind of experience the Philippines, but the way they have welcomed me here is really heartwarming. And it’s more amazing than I expected” he said on August 8. His words reflected a genuine appreciation for the vibrant energy he encountered during his brief stay in Manila.
The actor, who arrived in the capital for a whirlwind 24-hour visit, noted the intense energy of the Filipino people as a standout feature of his trip. This warmth, he suggested, exceeded his expectations and left him eager to explore more of the country in the future. 
Savoring Filipino Flavors
Despite his tight schedule, Hyun Bin made time to indulge in a quintessential Filipino experience—tasting adobo, a beloved dish of marinated meat often considered a national treasure. “I also had a meal. It was very delicious and amazing. I got a suggestion, a recommendation for Filipino food, which was adobo. It was very delicious and enjoyable,” he shared during the press conference on August 8. His enthusiasm for the dish resonated with many in attendance, further endearing him to his Filipino audience.
A Promise to Filipino Fans
Hyun Bin’s visit wasn’t just about soaking in the local culture; it was also an opportunity to connect with his dedicated fanbase in the Philippines. Addressing his supporters directly, the actor expressed deep gratitude for their unwavering support. “The unconditional, unchanging love and support that I receive from Filipino fans, I’m really honored and grateful to have that kind of support. With that love, I’m going to return it to you, to the Filipino fans, with more projects and to be a better actor as well” he promised on August 8.
This commitment to his craft and his fans struck a chord, reinforcing his reputation as a humble and dedicated artist. Hyun Bin’s pledge to return the love through future works was met with cheers and excitement from those present at the Solaire Resort.
Moments of Connection
Following the press conference, Hyun Bin took time to interact with fans in the hotel lobby, shaking hands and exchanging smiles with a lucky few. Videos circulating online captured these heartfelt moments, showcasing the actor’s approachable nature. Later that evening, a select group of fans who won a raffle organized by Joy Wassmer, director of public relations and communications at Solaire Resort, attended an exclusive fan meeting hosted by Filipino singer Martin Nievera.
Among the attendees was actress and CEO Charo Santos-Concio, who shared a special moment with Hyun Bin as they posed for a photograph together. These personal interactions underscored the actor’s ability to bridge cultural divides and connect with people on a personal level, further solidifying his popularity in the Philippines.
A Star on the Rise
Hyun Bin’s rise to international fame began with his starring role in “Crash Landing on You,” where he acted alongside his now-wife, Son Ye-jin. His portfolio also includes other notable dramas such as “My Lovely Sam Soon” “Secret Garden,” and “Memories of the Alhambra” which have cemented his status as a leading figure in the Korean entertainment industry. His visit to Manila marks another chapter in his global journey, bringing him closer to fans in Southeast Asia.
As Hyun Bin departed Manila after his brief but impactful visit, the buzz among fans and media suggests this won’t be his last trip to the Philippines. His genuine appreciation for the country’s hospitality and culture has left a lasting impression, with many hoping for a longer stay in the future. For now, Filipino fans hold onto his promise of returning their love through more captivating performances on screen.
