#FangirlGigs: Park Seo Joon's ultimate fan fest proves that the 'PSJ effect' is still in full swing
After two years, Park Seo Joon made his much-anticipated return, gracing "The Ultimate Fan Fest" at the Araneta Coliseum on July 12.
At the event presented by Century Tuna and Wilbros Live, Seo Joon ensured it was worth every moment by giving his Pinoy fans a truly personal connection.
More than effortlessly swooning the crowd, he shared a meaningful glimpse into his life during a candid Q&A. When asked about his aspirations beyond his booming career, he revealed a dream to travel the world.
“I hope that I may also have the chance to travel to the Philippines,” he added, through an interpreter.
Seon Joon is better known for his outstanding portrayal of variety roles in different hit TV series. He was that socially awkward yet principled Park Saeroyi in Itaewon Class, the narcissistic turned romantic boss in What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim, and Tae Sang in the action-packed thriller series Gyeongseong Creature.
Behind the scenes, Seon Joon shared that after finishing filming for a series, he “empties” the past role he played to have a clean start for the next one.
“Whenever I finish a project, I try to have some time to empty the character that I have for the upcoming project that I’ll work on,” he said. He added that he does this by traveling, and later rewards himself by watching the series in the future.
Through a raffle, many lucky fans got the chance to share a moment with him onstage during segments, including a fun round of squats, jumps, and lunges in a “Hep Hep Hooray” style. Others, meanwhile, tested their action-guessing skills in a telepathy game with the beloved oppa and showcased fangirl knowledge by answering trivia questions about Seon Joon.
Actress and TV host Anne Curtis also joined the fun and was able to prepare Seon Joon's favorite Century Tuna meal.
But the highlight of the night was the chance of an uninterrupted two minutes with Seon Joon alone.
The lucky fan, who won the trivia game, got to live every fangirl's dream inside the Big Dome: a two-minute date with Seon Joon. In that short time, they talked, exchanged handwritten notes, played mini games, and even shared a cozy "cinema" moment.
The date ended with a small fireworks show. Apart from the experience, she also received a flower bouquet, a Seon Joon-themed blanket, and a hug from the idol himself.
As one of the big names in the K-drama industry, Seon Joon has been busy with different projects and endorsements, including his upcoming romantic drama Waiting for Gyeong Do.
“Currently, I’m working on a very hectic and busy schedule, but I’m very glad that through meeting you guys today, it gives me energy so that I can go back and work hard,” he said.
Talking about his visit to Manila after two years, he said that seeing his Filipino fans again gave him “energy.”
“Recently, I’ve been going through shoots, staying [on] my sets, doing shoots for my upcoming works. But through this, feeling your love, I’m very happy,” he added.
Seon Joon's charm and versatility as an actor have won hearts, especially among K-drama fans. Yet, it's his consistent willingness to genuinely connect with his fans that truly fosters that enduring "PSJ effect" and keeps them eagerly longing for more.