Kim Sung, US Ambassador to the Philippines: I admire how Korean music, movies and dramas have become so popular internationally. I wish I had more free time to enjoy them fully.
Mark Choon, Peninsula Manila general manager: It is fantastic that Korean artists, whether actors or musicians, are getting more international revognition. It breaks the decades-long stereotype that Koreans were only focused and raised to be engineers. doctors or lawyers.
Having lived in four different countries in the past 10 years (US, Thailand, Japan and now Philippines) and seeing the popularity of Korean pop culture, I think viewers are fascinated by the way that Koreans verbally interact. Often, I am asked: Do Koreans really talk like that?
Monique Toda, Raffles and Fairmont Makati director of communications: Ji Chang Wook is a really good actor who also sings well. His looks and exciting dramas make him appealing to Filipinos.
K-dramas invite the viewer into the realm of romance, action, history, time travel and fantasy. They provide an excellent escape from everyday life. They draw you in with with their addictive cliffhangers.
Tina Cuevas, executive director, Sulo Riviera Hotel: Ji Chang Wook is one of the best actors in the Korean movie industry. The blending of traditional values with modern technology makes K-dramas interesting. K-dramas create emotional connection with viewers. The fashion in K-dramas has definite trend appeal. Cuteness overload!
Fe Rodriguez, president, Burger Machine Holdings Inc: K-dramas have good production values. The stories are varied and entertaining. And the actors are talented and drop-dead gorgeous, like Ji Chang Wook.
Shine Kuk, Miss Korea Philippines 2018: I‘m one huge fan of Ji Chang Wook! Fans adore him because he is so chic, mannish, tall (he‘s a six-footer) and really talented. Fans live in the romance of K-drama and hope there‘s a guy like him in reality.
Kerry Tinga, bachelor of law graduate, University College London: Ji Chang Wook comes across as naturally likeable and charming in Suspicious Partner. A lot of his appeal comes from his strength in action and martial arts, particularly in Healer. The fantasy elements grounded in eastern beliefs are a breath of fresh air for viewers of K-drama, who are used to seeing a lot of violence and sex in western films. We can also relate to the deep human emotions explored in a more meaningful way.