Kim Seon Ho’s “Love Factory” in Manila marked his fourth visit to the Philippines, and as a first-time attendee, I finally understood why he keeps coming back—and why his fans adore him so much.
Photo: WhenInManila.com
The fan meeting, which was held on May 31 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, truly felt intimate despite the large venue and buzzing crowd that seemed ready to squeal at every possible moment. As soon as he stepped onto the stage, you could immediately feel that sense of warmth and comfort.
He has a tall and lean build, but his smile could easily make everyone in the room swoon. What I found especially endearing, however, was his shyness. For someone of his stature and level of fame, it would have been understandable if he carried a more domineering aura. Instead, he would smile shyly at compliments and lose track of what he was saying whenever a fan’s scream caught his attention.
“Now we meet again,” the actor greeted his fans. “Seeing you guys once again reminds me of the happy days we had before.”
Compared to other fan meetings, where artists typically prepare numerous performances or invite lucky fans onstage for once-in-a-lifetime interactions, the 40-year-old star spent much of the event sharing updates about his life and expressing his excitement about seeing Filipino fans again. One might think that a fourth solo fan meeting could feel repetitive, but judging by the crowd’s enthusiasm and eagerness, the energy remained light and engaging throughout. It honestly felt like catching up with a long-distance friend.
From games and silly challenges to photo opportunities that made fans squeal, there was plenty to enjoy throughout the event. What I particularly loved, however, was hearing the actor reflect on his previous acting projects. He talked about his most recent work in “Can This Love Be Translated?” and shared insights into learning a new language. It was no secret that speaking a different language seemed to come naturally to him, especially when he effortlessly delivered several lines in Tagalog—something that may have been influenced by his experience in the action thriller “The Childe.”
He also recalled a filming anecdote from “The Childe,” where his character had to fight 30 men. However, due to production delays, some actors ended up appearing multiple times throughout the shoot, to the point where he began recognizing them.
“I already killed you. Why are you here again?” he joked, sending the audience into laughter. This candid moment was reminiscent of catching up with a friend and hearing funny stories about their work.
Moreover, he offered fans a more personal glimpse into his acting process. Long-time fans are familiar with his impressive run across multiple genres—from romantic comedies and dramas to thrillers—as well as his theater background. That made it especially refreshing to watch him act out several scenarios and demonstrate his process in front of thousands of fans. At one point, he even shed a tear. I could only imagine how difficult it must have been to show that level of vulnerability while maintaining such composure and poise. A true actor, indeed.
Of course, it also felt like a bragging-rights moment to witness him recreate the viral “smile challenge” from the award-winning Korean drama “When Life Gives You Tangerines.”
As someone who has watched several of his dramas over the years, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride seeing him showcase his talent and dedication to his craft. I’m sure he feels the same way. The way he spoke about acting and the work he continues to put into his upcoming projects made it clear why he is where he is today. His success is a testament to the hard work and passion he has invested in his craft.
We can’t wait for the “next time”
Toward the end of the fan meeting, it was heartwarming to see Kim Seon Ho visibly moved when fans surprised him with a heartfelt video featuring Maki’s “kahel na langit.” The video showcased empowering and heartfelt messages from fans, and with this being his fourth fan meeting in the Philippines, it was a touching moment to see him overwhelmed with love and gratitude from the people who have supported him throughout the years.
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“All of us have difficulties in life, but I feel so thankful that through me, you guys were able to overcome those difficulties, and I myself am able to overcome my difficulties thanks to all of you here,” he said.
“Thank you very much for spending this wonderful time with me. I hope this time tonight can be buried deep inside your hearts and be deeply remembered by you because it will be remembered by me,” he added.
As the fan meeting came to a close, everyone left feeling deeply satisfied, and I already can’t wait for the fifth time he visits the country. After all, that depth of gratitude and sincerity is deserving of the love and support his fans continue to give him.
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