IN the Asian entertainment scene, a “triple threat” is someone who can sing, dance, act and host shows. Korean actor Lee Seung-gi is one such artist.
The Vagabond star visited Manila recently as part of his Vagabond Voyage tour. Vagabond Voyage in Manila (2019 Lee Seung Gi Asia Fan Meeting) was held at the New Frontier Theater in Araneta Center, Quezon City.
Lee Seung-gi, to those who are not familiar with the name, has appeared in Korean dramas, like Shining Inheritance, My Girlfriend is a Gumiho, The King 2 Hearts and Gu Family Book, all of which are on Netflix.
He has also hosted and appeared in many variety shows, including 1 Night 2 Days, Strong Heart, All The Butlers and Little Forest.
Called the “Nation’s Little Brother,” Lee Seung-gi is also a sought-after brand endorser and ambassador. His name and face have graced the campaigns of many brands and products, from milk tea to cars and ready-to-wear clothing.
To be really honest, and I’m not saying this with the intention of dissing other Korean celebrities and their fans, I went to Vagabond Voyage to cover the CDM Entertainment event but I became a part of Airens, which is what Lee Seunggi’s fans are called.
Airen, by the way, is a Mandarin word that means “beloved” or “sweetheart.”
This was the first time that the 32-year-old actor came to Manila and they welcomed him with open arms. There were lovely flower topiaries and balloons at the lobby, and many Airens wore matching shirts and headbands that would light up later.
For his opening song, Lee Seung-gi sang “Because You’re My Woman,” which was his debut single. The audience, as expected, was overwhelmed with joy. The last four words in the previous sentence accurately describe how the fans welcomed the actor.
The fan meeting had several segments where Lee Seung-gi got to interact with his fans with the help of host Sam Oh and a translator.
In one segment, he prepared food for a lucky fan. It was a kimbap with rice, the white of a boiled quail egg, cheese and bits of grapes. The fan proclaimed the dish as “delicious” even if Lee Seung-gi himself said he was sorry she had to eat it.
Of course, he also talked about his latest action-drama Vagabond, which can be streamed via Netflix. In the series, he stars opposite Bae Suzy. The 16-episode series took a year to finish due to the intensity of the action scenes, most of which Lee Seung-gi did himself.
“When I first saw the episode, I was really impressed with how everything turned out and I was really proud…but as the show progresses, I promise the quality gets higher so you have a lot to look forward to,” he said.
“Thankfully, there weren’t big injuries but it’s an action TV show so there are small cuts and bruises here and there, but it’s actually really OK.”
During the “Big Data” segment, Lee Seung-gi discussed the topics “fan meeting,” “Perro” and “Awards.”
Perro, by the way, is his dog. Lee Seung-gi named his dog as Perro because the dog (a boy) was born on November 11, which is known as Pepero Day in South Korea. Pepero Day is an unofficial holiday that is marked by people exchanging boxes of Peperos or biscuit sticks covered in chocolate.
Lee Seung-gi said the reception he received from his Filipino fans exceeded his expectations.
“I also love interacting with fans, as well, and so far, the interactions I’m getting [from my Filipino fans is] maganda talaga.”
Sam Oh told the audience that Lee Seung-gi described Filipino Airens as “No. 1 sa reaction.”
The final part of the fan meeting was like a mini concert where Lee Seunggi reminded us why he is called a “triple threat.”
I’m happy that Lee Seung-gi appreciated the efforts of his Filipino fans. They really are precious and have stayed loyal to him all these years, with some even going to Korea two years ago to witness his discharge from mandatory military service. I am glad they had this time with him at a venue that’s intimate and allowed for more interaction.
Image credits: CDM Entertainment and Gia Allana Soriano
2 comments
Proud Airen here…
seunggi oppa my prince pls. Live a long, happy,and peaceful life be well and successful always in everything you do Aja fighting 💞
💋#iloveuleeseunggi💓💓💓
I love you Seung GI Oppa. I will continue to root for you all the way, wishing you all the best in all your endeavors. I’m forever your AIREN! Stay safe, stay blessed. Love you❤❤