#FangirlGigs: Kim Seon Ho makes Filo Seonhohadas swoon at his Manila fan meet
Though I wouldn't call myself a die-hard Kim Seon Ho fan, as a K-drama enthusiast, I've seen his shows and recognize his immense popularity. But attending his recent fan meet completely changed my perspective. Honestly, I just came for some fangirl experience with the idea of seeing a Korean actor in person. Little did I know, I'd be leaving smitten.
Last Saturday, April 13, Filipino brand UFC brought Kim Seon Ho's "Color+Full Asia Tour" to the SM Mall of Asia Arena, allowing Seonhohadas to see their idol in person.
This isn't Seon Ho's first time in the country. In fact, last year, he visited thrice—twice for fan meets, and once for the 2023 Asia Artist Awards at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan.
A 'Miracle' moment
Beaming excitedly, Pinoy Seonhohadas erupted into cheers as soon as Seon Ho appeared on the stage. That moment, I also found myself screaming when the Start Up star performed his self-composed song, Miracle, to open his show. I was allured by his god-given charm and singing voice.
The first part of the show was a question and answer portion hosted by It's Showtime's Ryan Bang. In the said segment, Seon Ho revealed that he likes dogs, that he would like to try tteokbokki with lechon, and that he prefers the city when on vacation. He even said the scenery in Manila is "fascinating" because of the seaside view with the theme park.
The moment I repeatedly said, 'Sana all'
The night was extra special as the second part of the event was intended for lucky fans to share the stage with the Korean star. Here, Seon Ho engaged with Filo Seonhahadas through a fun drawing game. Our hearts melted every time he said "I'm sorry" to his "teammate" for his artwork.
The event also featured a segment called "Mission Kim-possible" where Seon Ho tackled a series of challenges. He gamely attempted Pinoy tongue twisters (he successfully said "tansa sa tanso, tanso sa tansa" perfectly in one try!) and even impressed everyone with his skills at "Tumpakners."
His athleticism shone through as he aced the Filipino street game sipa, likely thanks to a similar game they have in Korea called jegichagi.
Lastly, he showcased his cooking skills in "The Ho Chelin Restaurant" segment, where fans got to try his kimchi fried rice and flavored chicken.
A 'colorful' actor
The entire fan meeting was filled with laughter and kilig as Seon Ho was game to take all the segment passionately for his Pinoy Seonhohadas.
His charm was so undeniable—fans would erupt in screams whenever he offered a handshake or hug. Even Ryan Bang was captivated, who, in between hosting, couldn't help but exclaim "ang guwapo niya" repeatedly. Ryan at one point told Seon Ho, "'Wag ka na ma-stress. Ako na ang mas-s-stress para sa'yo."
Towards the end, Seon Ho's 'good boy' personality resonated through a fan-made video that making him emotional.
Hi guys! Sharing you the full (and final) fanmade video we prepared for #2024KIMSEONHOASIATOURinMANILA 💕
— Seonho Boosters International (@seonhoboosters) April 13, 2024
Long story short, the video that played during the fanmeet wasn't the final submitted version, and "Reason" played instead of the original audio. 😔
It's frustrating and… pic.twitter.com/FvrCNlCfxR
"Color+Full" ended with Kim Seon-ho performing Reason before bidding farewell to his fans.
"Thank you so much guys for joining me until the last moment, I [will] make sure I'll be a colorful actor who shows these charms to you," he said.
@philstarlife Here are some of the highlights from #KimSeonHo's Color+Full Asia Tour in Manila! #hallyutalkph #celebritynewsph #entertainmentnewsph ♬ original sound - philstarlife
Seeing Seon Ho on television is comforting at its best, but nothing beats the joy of witnessing him engage with his Pinoy fans. His enthusiasm, skills, good looks, etiquette, and intense devotion to his fans made me smile. He is a true gentleman and a down-to-earth person, and always made sure everyone had a positive experience.
I can now see why his fanbase is smitten by him. Three hours and this actor officially converted this writer, who has started rewatching Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha after the event, into a fangirl.