Ji Chang-wook revs up hearts at an anniversary show for a health and wellness brand
Korean superstar Ji Chang-wook brought his signature charm to Manila as he headlined IAM Worldwide’s 8th anniversary celebration, DOMIN8, held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena last Oct. 19.
The event brought together IAM Worldwide’s ambassadors and a mix of K-pop and P-pop performers for a night of music, fan interaction, and celebration.
BGYO opened the show with an energetic performance that set the tone for the evening. Marian Rivera followed, joining a fan onstage for a short dance segment that drew cheers from the crowd. Moments later, Alden Richards surprised everyone by joining the actress, adding a light and spontaneous moment to the program.
NTX, a Korean boy group, impressed with their stage presence and a special cover of Multo by Cup of Joe, which earned them loud applause from the audience.
The night’s most anticipated appearance came when Ji Chang-wook arrived on a motorcycle, greeting fans as the arena filled with cheers. He took part in a short game of charades, guessing titles from his past dramas, and later handed a giant teddy bear to a lucky fan.
Keeping the momentum going, the Nation’s Girl Group BINI brought their infectious energy to the stage with their latest hit Shagidi.
Ji Chang-wook on health and success
Before the event, Ji Chang-wook met with members of the media during a press conference, where he spoke about his latest projects.
Joining the growing list of Korean superstars promoting local wellness company IAM Worldwide, Ji Chang-wook currently fronts their latest campaign. The ad features him riding a motorcycle, capitalizing on the actor's passion for riding.
When asked about maintaining his health amid a demanding schedule, he shared that he tries to get enough rest, exercise, and drink barley regularly. He also demonstrated how he prepares his drink, to the amusement of those present.
"Like others, there are some times when you meet some friends to have a drink, a cup of coffee, a meal together, or sometimes I'd rather have time alone to relieve stress," he answered on what he does when he's stressed.
On his latest projects
Ji Chang-wook will be seen next in the Disney+ series, The Manipulated, where he plays a man falsely accused of a crime who seeks revenge. He said the role left a strong impression on him.
He also mentioned his upcoming Netflix series, Scandal, describing it as another project that allowed him to grow as an actor.
“Every time a project ends, I find myself a bit different than I was then I try to go back to the older version of me. I’m still in the process of developing myself,” he said.
Known as one of the most beloved actors in Korea with a long and successful career, Ji Chang-wook shared his on-set routine while filming: “I actually have a routine. Whenever I go to [the set], I listen to music. So whenever I listen to music, I just focus on the music, or I do meditation, or I just think nothing at all.” He added that he listens to different genres every day, from Jazz to hip hop and K-pop, as a way to center himself before filming.
Global fans, including Filipino Wookies, have also become a big source of inspiration for him to explore new genres and grow more as an actor.
“To be recognized and loved by fans abroad, that in itself is already amazing and surprising to me. It gives me the motivation to become a better actor and take on more projects in the future,” he said.
A message to fans
Despite his success as a top actor, Ji Chang-wook admitted that he still gets nervous before large events but said he was excited to meet his Filipino fans again.
“I'm very, very thankful for your unconditional love for me. I want to meet you more often,” he said.
As the night ended, Ji Chang-wook thanked fans for their warm welcome, capping off the celebration on a grateful and upbeat note.
Editor's Note: PhilSTAR L!fe was given a free ticket for IAM Worldwide's DOMIN8 The 8th Anniversary Show.
