South Korean actor Jung Il Woo expresses love for Vietnam

South Korean actor Jung Il Woo. Photo from Jung's Instagram

At the premiere event for the movie, Jung revealed that his time in Vietnam left a lasting impression, praising the country’s culture, cuisine, and hospitality.

The actor also shared that as part of his preparation for "Mang Me Di Bo," he took an active role in learning Vietnamese pronunciation, enlisting the help of co-stars and even suggesting that some of his original Korean lines be rewritten in Vietnamese to better connect with audiences. He said he hopes the film will serve as a meaningful milestone in cinematic collaboration between Vietnam and South Korea.

In "Mang Me Di Bo," Jung plays Jeong Min, the Korean husband of the lead character Hanh, portrayed by Vietnamese actress Juliet Bao Ngoc. In one memorable scene, he serenades her with a Vietnamese ballad in a heartfelt attempt to win her affection.

The film shoot was not Jung’s first visit to Vietnam. In April 2024, he shared his travels through Hanoi, Sa Pa, Da Nang, and Hoi An on social media, delighting fans with snapshots of local life and scenic landscapes. The actor said during his trip, he spent time strolling through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, eating pho, drinking iced milk coffee, enjoying draft beer, and trying popular street food. He and his manager also used their phones to film the bustling streets and everyday local life. When in Sa Pa, he traveled around using a motorbike, climbed Mount Fansipan, and sampled regional specialties.

Jung, 38, made his acting debut in 2006 and rose to fame through hit dramas including "High Kick!," "My Fair Lady," "49 Days," "The Moon Embracing the Sun," and "Cinderella with Four Knights."