Cover Actor Ji Chang-wook (Photos: Getty Images; stylized by Angela Nicole Guiral)
Actor Ji Chang-wook (Photos: Getty Images; stylized by Angela Nicole Guiral)
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Ji Chang-wook returns to Manila in August! In anticipation, delve into these essential tidbits that fans can’t miss
From his early days in musical theatre to his breakout roles in television dramas, Ji Chang-Wook has consistently showcased a range of acting skills that have set him apart from his peers. His performances span various genres, from action-packed thrillers like Hard Hit and K2 to heartwarming romances like Backstreet Rookie, demonstrating his ability to connect with viewers on multiple levels. But there’s more to Ji Chang-wook than these notable shows.
In anticipation of his fan meeting event on August 4 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, we take a closer look at nine aspects of his career and life you may not know about.
More from Tatler: An Hour With The Phenomenal Korean Star, Ji Chang-Wook
1. He transforms into a villain in the upcoming film ‘Revolver’
Revolver tells the compelling story of Ha Soo Young (played by Jeon Do Yeon), a former police officer who, after unjustly taking the blame for a crime, serves time in prison. Upon her release, she becomes singularly focused on a mission.
Ji Chang-wook portrays Andy, known as “Mad Dog”, who coerces Ha Soo Young into taking the fall for a crime she didn’t commit by promising substantial compensation.
2. He was a theatre performer
Before Ji Chang-wook dominated the small screens, he had previously taken centre stage with his musical theatre skills. In an interview, he recalled being an average student during his youth, but he had a life-altering revelation: he wanted to act. He majored in Theatre during his college years, which proved to be beneficial for his acting career.
3. He stars in a travel variety show
Above From the creator of ‘Infinite Challenge’ comes ‘My Name Is Gabriel’, a new variety show where Korea’s top entertainers step out of the spotlight and live someone else's life for 72 hours.
Ji Chang-wook joins Park Myung Soo, Park Bo Gum, Yeom Hye Ran, Dex, and Gabee in the travel variety show My Name is Gabriel. Produced by PD Kim Tae Ho, renowned for the hit MBC program Infinite Challenge, the cast members immerse themselves in the lives of strangers abroad for 72 hours, adopting new identities where they are unrecognised.
4. He once revealed he was in a secret relationship
In 2012, Ji Chang-wook revealed on the morning show Good Morning that he already had six relationships at that time, the last of which was a secret one.
“It was around when I just started Five Fingers,” he says. “I think I’ll continue to keep it secret if I get into a relationship. Surely, there are some good things about opening it to the public, but I think there are more bad factors. So, I think it’s much better to keep it secret.”
5. He was offered a role in the superhero film ‘Twelve’
Ma Dong Seok’s Twelve depicts the struggle of heroes with various abilities and charms to protect the Korean Peninsula from evil spirits, and Ji Chang-wook has been offered a role in it. If Ji Chang Wook confirms his appearance soon, he will appear in a fantasy superhero work for the first time in 16 years since his debut.
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6. He is also a talented singer
Throughout his illustrious career, Ji Chang-wook has demonstrated his musical talent by contributing to various soundtracks like To the Butterfly, I’ll Protect You, and 101 Reasons Why I Like You.
7. He has a net worth of around US$70 million in 2023
Ji Chang-wook has delivered some of the best movies and television shows through the years. It is no surprise that he has amassed quite a large net worth. According to India Today, the South Korean actor enjoyed a net worth of US$12 million in 2021, a bulk of it owing to his fashion and skin care endorsement deals. In 2023, his net worth allegedly stood at around US$70 million, according to various K-media sources.
8. He is Rado’s global ambassador
Luxury watch brand Rado announced in 2023 that the K2 actor was their newest brand ambassador. Ji Chang-wook modelled the Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Skeleton.
“I’ve always been interested in Swiss watches, especially in unique designs and special materials. I’m very happy to start in my new role as a brand ambassador for Rado. The Captain Cook is such a beautiful watch that I look forward to wearing it whenever I can,” said the actor.
9. He is a Benchsetter
In 2022, Ji Chang-wook visited the Philippines for the first time. It was for his tour Reach You—the Philippine leg presented by Filipino fashion retail giant, Bench.
“Bench was the first company that I got to work with in the Philippines. The brand was very hospitable and accommodating. They treated me like family,” he says.
This year, the clothing and lifestyle brand announced that the actor is set to hold another fan meeting event on August 4 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. “Get ready for an unforgettable day filled with special moments,” it wrote.
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Angela Nicole Regis Guiral is a digital editor at Tatler Philippines. She studied journalism and has since written features that look closely at how culture, lifestyle and social impact converge, while occasionally wandering into the worlds of style and travel.
