What’s right with Park Seo Jun’s aura?
'Park Seo Jun makes our hearts melt'
MANILA, Philippines — Like his character in the hit rom-com What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim?, Park Seo Jun has a shining aura that makes him a standout. That drama was so hilarious and his narcissistic but charming “chaebol” role was so exceptional, I watched it twice. Since his character cared so much about his aura, my friends who watch K-dramas (my “Seoul Sisters”) call Park Seo Jun — what else? — but “Mr. Aura.” The latest Bench global fashion endorser, this tall and lean-built man with perfect skin was casually dressed in a black long-sleeved shirt with rolled sleeves, which was neatly tucked into black slacks and white sneakers. Casual and easygoing but with an elegance about him, Seo Jun is truly bigger than life and lives up to those amazing four Bench giant billboards of him on EDSA.
He was totally unaware of his big fan base in the Philippines until recently. He knew that he had some fans in the country through social media but had no idea of his large following until he was asked by Ben Chan to be their global endorser. It’s his first time in Manila and he is thankful for the opportunity to get to know the Philippines and his Filipino fans through this. Good news for his fans: he would like to come back.
At his presscon, Seo Jun was asked about his fashion styling tips. ‘‘Have confidence, know your body type, and try different types of clothes to know what fits you.’’ He would like to see more of the Philippines and go on tour one day. He is currently doing a film that requires his character to age from high school until 35 years old. This is his main project until next year.
At the Mall of Asia Arena, throngs of screaming fans and members of his Philippine fan club attested to his unwavering popularity. The fandom of South Korea’s “Nation’s Boyfriend” or “Prince of Romcoms” is actually on an international level and he recently launched his official YouTube channel called “Record PARKS” so fans can be updated of his daily life and activities. In it, he has vlogs seemingly speaking directly to you, sans makeup and styling, just being himself. If you want to see him play soccer, work out, or groom Simba, his super-cute Bichon Frisé, go to his channel. It’s all there.
I’m a relative newbie when it comes to K-drama. I used to wonder what all the fuss was about until a good friend convinced me to try and watch. I find K-dramas compelling with their emotional rollercoaster plots and cliffhangers. Want to lose yourself for a couple of hours? Watch a K-drama. So far, I have watched Park Seo Jun in Kill Me, Heal Me, Witch’s Romance, She Was Pretty, Hwarang: The Poet Warrior, Fight For My Way, and What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim?
Seo Jun is a natural with his boy-next-door charm. An accomplished actor who also sings, Seo Jun debuted pretty late by Korean showbiz standards at the age of 24. He first attracted attention in Dream High then proceeded to make dramas and films. However, apart from rom-coms, he has also been cast in diverse roles where he has proved his worth, receiving accolades and awards for his acting multiple times throughout the years. There are too many to mention. His latest film was Divine Fury, where he played a demonic MMA fighter turned exorcist. Most recently, he had a cameo role in acclaimed director Bon Joon Ho’s Parasite, the first Korean film to ever win the Palme D’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
We had a one-on-one with Mr. Aura:
PHILIPPINE STAR: How do you describe your personal fashion style?
PARK SEO JUN: I can’t pinpoint one style. I am usually the type to try different styles. It’s hard to explain it in words. My style is usually not closed. It’s open to other different things.
What do you know about the Philippine brand Bench?
I know that Bench is a big brand in Southeast Asia and that it is a brand that not only thinks about fashion, but lifestyle as well.
What can you say about the Bench line of clothing? Any favorite outfits so far?
Bench is a casual style that is more approachable to normal people. I think it is a brand that is customer friendly. While I was in the photo shoot, I really liked the denim jacket. But the clothing line I like is the latest collection.
What was the most challenging role you’ve had and what has been the most fun role to play?
I always have fun when acting. My role in Fight for My Way was quite challenging as it was difficult to train as an MMA fighter. But I believe every role is a challenge.
What is one role you want to play but haven’t yet?
I am always looking for roles I really want to try but I don’t have anything specifically in mind. I think what’s important is looking for different things.
How do you think you have evolved as an actor through the years?
I’ve been garnering various experiences through my roles. What I think I want to do is show the deeper emotions I’ve learned as I evolve.
If you weren’t an actor, what would you be?
I have no idea because I’ve always wanted to be an actor.
Where do you want to travel next?
I wish I could go traveling more.
What do you do when you hang out with friends?
I drink alcohol, go traveling with them, and most of all we talk a lot.
The Hallyu Wave is so strong nowadays. What message do you want to send the international public about Korea or about yourself?
I am very grateful to people who look at and love the Korean culture. And it is my job to show, as an actor, quality work. I think I have to try hard to reciprocate the love of fans by making my acting better.
Have you tried Filipino food? What do you like so far?
Sisig. Yes, I liked it.
Do you miss Simba, your dog?
Simba is at home. I always miss him since he is my family.
