South Korean superstar Hyun Bin is no stranger to global adoration, but during his recent visit to Manila, it was the Filipino brand of love—and a plate of adobo—that left the actor impressed and deeply touched.
“We also had a meal, it was very, very delicious and amazing. I got a suggestion, a recommendation for Filipino food, which was adobo. It was very delicious and I enjoyed it,” Hyun Bin shared during his press conference at Solaire in Parañaque on Friday, August 8.
The ‘Crash Landing on You’ lead actor is in the Philippines for the first time to meet his devoted Filipino fans through a fan meet-and-greet organized by Solaire Resort, made possible by Director of Public Relations and Communications Joy Wassmer. The event gathered raffle promo winners and long-time supporters who’ve followed his journey since his breakout role in the 2005 hit drama ‘My Lovely Sam Soon’.
“The Philippines had long been on my list,” Hyun Bin said. “I didn’t have much time to go around and explore, but the way they have welcomed me here is really heartwarming and more amazing than I expected.”
The actor noted how both fans and hotel staff showered him with warm hospitality, making his brief stay feel more meaningful.
“I’m surprised with the warm hospitality and bright energy,” he added, visibly moved.
For many Filipino K-drama lovers, Hyun Bin was their “first oppa.” Whether they knew him as Jin-heon (Cyrus in the Filipino-dubbed version of Sam Soon), the suave CEO Joo-won (Secret Garden), or Capt. Ri (Crash Landing on You), Hyun Bin’s characters have remained beloved across generations.
“You know, the unconditional and unchanging love and support that I’ve received from Filipino fans—I’m really, really grateful and honored to have this kind of support,” he said. “And with that love, I would like to return it to Filipino fans with more projects and, of course, as a better actor as well.”
And return he will. After a string of successful films post-‘Crash Landing on You’, Hyun Bin is set to grace the small screen once again in the Disney+ thriller series ‘Made in Korea’, scheduled for release later this year.
His visit may have been short, but for Hyun Bin and his fans, it was filled with meaning, warmth, and unforgettable moments—along with a new appreciation for Filipino cuisine.
