More Than Ready: Ji Changwook And His Amazing Connection With Filipino Fans

In 2015, Ji Changwook first appeared on Philippine television as Emperor Toghon Temür in the Tagalized Empress Ki on GMA 7, a performance that quietly marked the beginning of his deep connection with Filipino audiences. Now on his third visit to the country, the South Korean actor and singer returned for an anniversary event that had drew in fans from all across the country.

At 6 p.m., the SM Mall of Asia Arena was packed with admirers of BGYO, BINI, NTX, and Ji Changwook. The event, titled Domin8, celebrated not only the company’s success but also the milestones of its top sellers. The show opened with El Gamma Penumbra’s moving performance of “The Prayer,” setting an inspiring tone for the night. BGYO kept the energy high with “Gigil,” “Headlines,” and “All These Ladies,” while actress Marian Rivera surprised the audience with a heartfelt appearance, even inviting a fan onstage for an authentic interaction. Actor Alden Richards soon followed, joining Marian in congratulating and thanking the crowd.

K-pop group NTX took the stage next, performing “Stay,” “Wassup,” “Like This,” and a stirring ballad by members Hyeongjin and Yunhyeok. They followed it up with the English version of their hit “Over and Over,” as the arena screens played its cinematic music video featuring the barley gummies and shot across Manila landmarks like Palacio de Memoria, the MOA Sky Pitch, and the National Museum of Natural History. A crowd favorite moment came when Hyeongjin, Yunhyeok, Xiha, Changhun, Hojun, Rawhyun, Eunho, and Seungwon covered Cup of Joe’s “Multo,” a local touch that delighted the attendees.

The night’s highlight came with Ji Changwook’s grand entrance, riding a motorcycle that echoed his newly released story-driven ad shown earlier that day. After a brief chat, he joined fans for Name It, a lively guessing game where he identified his past projects. Five lucky participants took home prizes, but the most heartwarming moment came when Cassie, who had just acted out The Worst of Evil, won the mini raffle. Her prize? A giant teddy bear from Changwook himself made the night even more special as she was celebrating her birthday the next day. 

What impressed me most was the grace of the participants. They kept a respectful distance, choosing to savor the moment rather than scramble for selfies, a rare sight in fan meets of this scale. The sincerity wasn’t lost on Wookie; at ease and smiling, he returned the gesture with warm hugs.

The emotional tone carried over into one of the most touching parts of the evening: a compilation of fan messages. Thoughtfully assembled, the video featured words of appreciation and well-wishes, proving how deeply his stories have resonated over the years. Whether followers first met him through Smile Again, Healer, The K2, The Sound of Magic, or Gangnam B-Side, each message reflected a shared journey, a connection built not just on admiration but on growth and grit mirrored through his roles.

After Ji Changwook’s heartfelt segment, the program transitioned to the Nation’s Girl Group, BINI, whose energy never fails to uplift a crowd. Though I had to leave early due to an emergency, I knew they’d close the night with the perfection and passion they’re known for.

In the end, Ji Changwook’s Manila visit wasn’t just about a campaign. It became a reflection of how Filipino media, creators, and viewers have evolved. As he engaged with Pinoys who celebrated him both onstage and off, it felt as if the mirror had turned both ways: he reflected our admiration, and we reflected his grace. This fan event proved that when artistry, audience, and authenticity align, amazing moments aren’t just witnessed, they’re created.