3 weeks ago
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By DARLENE CAY, GMA Integrated News
Published February 21, 2025 5:54pm
South Korean actor and singer Seo In Guk is the Philippines' new tourism ambassador.
Seo In Guk and the Department of Tourism (DoT) held Friday a ceremonial signing of a memorandum of understanding, formalizing the conferment of Philippine Tourism Ambassadorship to the Korean star.
He is perhaps best known for his roles in the Korean Drama series Reply 1997, The Master's Sun, and Hello Monster.
"Mr. Seo In Guk's artistry has cultivated a deep connection with Filipino fans and other people all over the world making him an ideal representative to share the wonders of the Philippines to the world," said DoT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.
Frasco said Seo In Guk will be instrumental in promoting the Philippines as a must-visit destination for South Koreans through digital content.
South Korea has been a consistent top market for Philippine tourism, according to DoT.
In 2024, the Philippines welcomed around 1.5 million tourists from South Korea, Frasco said.
"This partnership aligns with our broader efforts to diversify our tourism offerings and position the Philippines as a tourism powerhouse, leveraging the power of pop culture and digital influence so as to allow us to engage deeper with global travelers especially those who share a passion for good music film and adventure," Frasco said.
Seo in Guk thanked the DoT and his fans for the honor and responsibility to be the country's tourism ambassador.
"This is really a big responsibility for me. I thank the Filipinos for giving me much love. In order to pay you back, I will make sure you are all going to be satisfied with all my future activities," the Seo in Guk star said in Korean.
Seo In Guk is also in the Philippines to shoot scenes for his upcoming Korean Drama Series, "Boyfriend On Demand" with Blackpink Member Jisoo.
He shared his experience when he visited Cebu and had a taste of lechon.
"I came with my friend. I discovered that Filipinos are very kind and very lovable. Cebu is very beautiful that is why I loved it... I will never forget the time I was eating lechon. Somebody was singing in Filipino in the background. I was very happy that time," Seo In Guk said in Korean.
Frasco said DoT's engagement with Seo In Guk will last for a year. — VDV, GMA Integrated News
