A week after she was officially unveiled as Smart’s latest international endorser, joining actor Hyun Bin who was presented in June as envoy of the telco’s Signature campaign, Son Ye-jin once again delighted her Filipino fans when the behind-the-scenes footage of her TVC was presented to the media on Monday.
The exclusive viewing party showcased the 38-year-old Korean star in some of the memorable moments during her shoot while riding a high-performance Ducati. The BTS was followed by an interview session where Ye-jin expressed her desire to visit the country and meet her Filipino fans.
“I am really happy to shoot an advertisement for a Philippine brand. Actually, I wanted to go to the Philippines and shoot [the TVC]. And the fans who love the drama sent me messages of support on social media,” the Crash Landing on You star said explaining that the COVID-19 outbreak prevented her from doing so.
“It’s just so sad that I could not come to see all the fans in person, but I’m very thankful and happy to be able to meet them in this way,” the award-winning actress carried on.
According to Jane J. Basas, Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Wireless Business at Smart, Ye Jin’s appeal is undeniable among Filipinos who have been swept by the Korean wave.
“More than this, we know Son Ye-jin embodies the Smart Signature brand as it simplifies the postpaid experience so customers can make their mark in their career or passion,” Basas said of their decision to recruit the award-winning star to be part of their growing list of endorsers.
Ye-jin, who rose to fame in romance-themed television series such as The Classic, Summer Scent, Something in the Rain, and Crash Landing On You, said that as an actress, she is always grateful for having a platform to entertain and touch the lives of others through her craft.
“I thank Smart for giving me a way to specifically reach out to my Filipino fans and inspire them to make a mark in whatever path that they have chosen. I wish to see you all soon,” said Ye-jin, who earned the title ‘Queen of Melodramas’ in South Korea for her string of hit series and movies.
During the Q and A at the virtual party, Ye-jin also answered a few personal questions and shared a few things about her life and profession:
Can you tell us who is Son Ye Jin behind the camera, not as Son Ye Jin the actress?
There’s nothing special about me. In front of the camera, I’m always in character with the given role, so I tend to stick to it. But behind the camera, I think I’m just ordinary. I’m the same person as you guys.
Do you have any advice for young people who are just getting started?
Well, I am not sure if I’ve already succeeded, but I think young people who just started, not only in acting but also in other fields, are going to be so scared and experience hardships. Same as my experience. But it helps that I’ve always set a goal. And even if the reality is not close to that goal, just try your best to imagine yourself in that future and make the best out of everything. Then, think of it as a step closer to your dreams. Keep fighting.
Can you give us the most effective tip?
I also haven’t found it yet. Maybe that should always be our task. Especially my job, it’s not like a switch that I can just turn off and turn on. So, there are times when I’m a little torn between the role and the real Son Ye Jin. But in the end, I tend to push myself more when I’m working. So, when I’m not working, I just rest and recharge so I can show you a better me. I think sometimes you shouldn’t push yourself too hard and take some time to relax a little bit.
You are very busy and also traveling a lot. Is there any technology that you think is most important when you travel?
First of all, I’m a very organized traveler. There’s always a limited time when you travel so I really think of how I can spend my time happily and effectively within that time. And most importantly, you must have a good roaming plan.
You played a lot of different characters. Do you have any tips on preparing for new roles or learning new things?
I played a lot of different roles. In my case, no matter what character I play, I try to find a similar aspect of myself in that character. I think that’s the best tip I can give.
It’s important to stay healthy. Could you share how to maintain a healthy body and life?
There is a health issue that the world is facing today. I also need to be healthy to be able to work. And health is the most important thing to be able to spend quality time with the people I love. That’s why I’m constantly exercising and trying to eat good food.