#FanGirlGigs: Inside Kim Seon-ho’s ‘Love Factory’ in Manila fan meeting
By now, Kim Seon-ho knows his way around a Philippine fan meeting.
The South Korean actor returned to Manila on May 31 for “Love Factory,” his fourth fan meeting in the country. It follows his “Color+Full” Asia Tour stop in 2024.
The Smart Araneta Coliseum welcomed fans for an evening of playful games, acting demonstrations, and candid conversations about his life on and off screen.
The loudest reactions were often reserved for moments fans already knew by heart. One such highlight came when Kim recreated the now-viral smile from When Life Gives You Tangerines, prompting cheers from the crowd that immediately recognized the expression.
He also came prepared with several Filipino phrases throughout the night, including a line from The Childe, where he played the enigmatic villain Nobleman. His delivery of the Filipino dialogue once again drew strong reactions from the audience.
Acting showcase
Beyond the fan service moments, “Love Factory” offered a glimpse into Kim’s process as an actor. A longtime theater performer before finding mainstream success on television, he demonstrated how quickly he can shift between emotions onstage.
In one segment, he moved from a frightened character to a protective one within seconds. In another, he revisited an emotional scene from Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, showing how he approaches tearful moments onscreen.
“When doing crying scenes, I am really invested in the scene,” he said. “I try to remember the emotions I felt when reading that scene for the first time.”
Coffee, running, and learning new skills
The evening also touched on hobbies and skills he has picked up in recent years. Kim shared that he learned how to make coffee and practice latte art while filming the reality show Bonjour Bakery. More recently, he has taken up running.
“Running is really good for your mental health,” he said.
When asked for advice on learning something new, he added: “Whatever you do, you have to think to give it all.”
Kim Seon-ho shares gratitude to Filipino fans
As with many fan meetings, the program balanced conversation with lighthearted challenges. Kim gamely joined segments such as tumbang preso and a “Guess What’s in the Box” game, and drew laughs when he took part in the “Boom Shakalaka” dance challenge.
Still, one of the night’s most emotional moments came when fans unveiled a birthday video tribute prepared by Seonhohadas for the actor, who celebrated his birthday on May 8.
Watching the fan project, Kim appeared visibly moved.
“I can’t really believe it, but every time I see that I become strength and motivation for other people, it makes me feel thankful,” he said.
“All of us have difficulties in life, but I feel so thankful that through me, you guys are able to overcome those difficulties. I, myself, am able to overcome my difficulties thanks to all of you here tonight.”
He then added in Filipino: “Mahal kita.”
Kim also shared that he is currently filming a new drama and thanked fans for their continued support.
“Thanks to you guys, I will be able to shoot this drama even better,” he said. “Thank you very much for being my strength. Mahal ko po kayong lahat.”
For many attendees, the evening’s final moments were just as memorable as the program itself.
Following the show, Kim greeted fans during the hi-bye session, taking time to make eye contact, wave, and acknowledge each attendee as they passed by—a gesture that has become a familiar part of his fan meetings.
Kim Seon-ho's "Love Factory" fan meet was presented by Ovation Productions.
