Mc Richard Paglicawan
Hallyu star Seo In-Guk has been appointed as the Philippines’ Celebrity Tourism Ambassador for Korea, following a formal agreement signed with the Department of Tourism (DOT) on February 21, 2025, in Makati City.
The initiative is part of the Philippine government’s strategy to attract more South Korean visitors, leveraging Seo’s massive fan base and influence in entertainment.
As an official tourism ambassador, Seo will participate in digital campaigns, promotional materials, and tourism activities, focusing on showcasing Boracay’s white sand beaches, Cebu’s rich heritage, and Manila’s vibrant city life.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed confidence in Seo’s ability to connect with Korean travelers, saying, “Mr. Seo In-Guk’s global reach and strong rapport with fans make him an excellent choice to promote the Philippines as a must-visit destination.”
Seo shared his excitement about the role and his personal experiences in the Philippines, particularly in Cebu.
“I’ve always loved the Philippines. The people are warm and kind, and the country is so beautiful. This is a great opportunity to share that with my fellow Koreans,” he said.
He also revealed his fondness for Filipino food, recalling his first taste of Cebu’s famous lechon.
“I was enjoying lechon while listening to Filipino music in the background—it was such a memorable experience,” he said.
Apart from his new role as a tourism ambassador, Seo In-Guk is set to star in the upcoming Netflix series ‘Boyfriend on Demand’ alongside BLACKPINK’s Jisoo. His growing international presence is expected to bring further exposure to the Philippines as a top-tier travel destination.
With South Korea remaining the leading source of tourists to the Philippines, Seo’s appointment is seen as a major step in strengthening tourism ties between the two nations.
