Um Tae-goo Holds First Fan Meeting in 17 Years

Actor Um Tae-goo held his first fan meeting in 17 years, creating unforgettable moments with 2,000 fans.

On the 28th, Um Tae-goo hosted the '1st Um Tae-goo Fan Meeting' at the Coex Shinhan Card Artium in Gangnam, Seoul. The event sold out all 1,000 seats immediately upon ticket release, and additional sessions also sold out instantly.

Um Tae-goo filled the 170-minute event with fan-centric activities, celebrating his first fan meeting in 17 years with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. He shared updates on his life, personally writing and editing his profile, and engaged in sincere conversations about his extensive filmography.

He performed songs and a whistle routine from his YouTube channel 'UV BANG,' and even surprised fans with impromptu dances and pantomimes, eliciting enthusiastic cheers. Um Tae-goo also ran through the audience to deliver gifts to selected fans and personally saw off around 2,000 fans after the event.

Fans reciprocated Um Tae-goo's heartfelt efforts with touching events. They filled the venue with slogans celebrating his first fan meeting and sang lines from the OST of 'My Dear Silver' and Okdal's 'Two People,' songs he is known to love. Deeply moved, Um Tae-goo said, 'I prayed for the fans while listening to the songs. I am grateful for the overwhelming support and love. I will continue to work hard to bring more emotions and precious feelings through my work. I will strive to show my best, step by step, as I have done so far.'

The '1st Um Tae-goo Fan Meeting' shone even brighter with congratulations from many artists. Twenty-one actors and broadcasters who had worked with Um Tae-goo sent congratulatory videos, and actor Kwon Yul made a surprise guest appearance, heating up the atmosphere with a talk and games showcasing their 12-year friendship. Host Park Kyung-lim received applause for her skilled and considerate hosting, which highlighted Um Tae-goo's charm.

Meanwhile, Um Tae-goo has been receiving immense love from global fans for his transformation into a lovable character in 'The Woman Who Plays,' a stark contrast to his previously rugged roles. According to Good Data Corporation's FUNdex survey, he ranked first in the drama/non-drama overall cast popularity for five consecutive weeks.

Reporter Ryu Ye-ji, Ten Asia ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr