Lee Seung Gi (이승기) was recently in Malaysia for a public fan meet event in MyTOWN Shopping Centre on behalf of Astro and One TV Asia. Approximately 600 fans showed up at the Cheras mall to catch the South Korean heartthrob up close. During the interactive session, fans got to engage with Seung Gi in various activities, such as a guessing game, chit-chat session, and even live performances where he serenaded the crowd with “Losing My Mind” and an acapella version of “Because You’re My Girl”.
Perhaps one of the most heartwarming interactions was when a group of Malaysian Airens gifted the handsome Oppa with baby clothing. Judging from his surprise reaction and happy laughter, we could tell that Seung Gi was not expecting that. It was only a few days prior that his agency confirmed that the actor and his wife Lee Da In are expecting their first child together in February next year.
A few hours prior to the fan meet, Hype and a group of local media were fortunate enough to interview Lee Seung Gi at EQ Hotel. During our conversation, we talked about his impression of Kuala Lumpur, his thought process when it comes to making an album or taking on a new acting project, as well as what fans can expect next. Perhaps his biggest project yet is taking on the role of fatherhood.
As we’re approaching the year end, the actor also reflected on which pivotal moments this year that stand out. There’s no doubt that Seung Gi has been through plenty of hardships and had to deal with the nasty side of the industry. But this also makes the victories all the more sweeter. From talking to him, it was evident that the 36-year-old is truly grateful for all the blessings that have come his way. If there’s any takeaway, Seung Gi already has some big plans (some of which he’s holding close to his chest for the time being) for 2024 and beyond.
Scroll down to read our full interview with him:
Welcome back to Malaysia! How do you feel about returning so soon?
First of all, I love Malaysia! And during my previous Asia Tour, I was able to meet and communicate with my fans and after seeing their reactions, I realised that it makes me really happy. So when the opportunity to come back was given by ONE TV, I took it knowing that I can meet my fans again. I’m also hoping for more opportunities to come back more often.
What part of our country do you enjoy the most besides your fans?
Every time I visit Malaysia, I have to eat fried rice and satay. Even though satay is available in other countries, I think the satay in Malaysia is the most delicious. And we don’t have this type of dish in South Korea so I would like to introduce some of the local Malaysian dishes to my fans. Personally, I’ve only been to Kuala Lumpur but I noticed that here in Malaysia, there is a lot of beautiful natural scenery and places to relax so I would love to explore it if I could.
If you had to choose between acting versus singing – which one would it be?
This is tough! I have to do both so that I can continue to have an income *laughs* But if I had to choose one between the two, I’d choose singing so I can live out my fantasy as a K-pop idol.
Is there a type of role you are looking out for? Or perhaps a type of role you’d stay away from?
I don’t have a specific character or role that I would pick, as long as it’s a character or a storyline that I can understand, I’m down for it. However, a director once offered role of an idol who dances. Unfortunately, I don’t think I have the ability to portray that convincingly, so I’ve rejected the role.
As an actor, what has your proudest moment so far?
Personally, the biggest turning point for me as an actor was when I starred in “The King 2Hearts” and this drama made me realise a bigger dream I have as an actor. However, looking back, since I’ve been active for 20 years, there is always something precious that happens every year so it’s hard to pick just one moment. But if I had to choose one, it would be when I received my first Grand Award (daesang) after returning back to the entertainment world after completing my military service because I had worries about whether I could still continue my journey as an entertainer after my military enlistment.
When taking on a new project, what are the challenges you normally face?
For any album or project, the hardest thing is the creative aspect because there is no definite answer to creativity. So, for any of my albums or dramas, there’s always that concern that I wouldn’t be able to make the right decisions. Even if I think the decision I made is correct, there will still be doubts.
Since Christmas is approaching, we want to know what was the best gift you’ve received and what is the best gift you have given to someone?
Every Christmas, I would receive all sorts of amazing gifts from fans and they’ve all been precious to me. Personally, I’m not someone who really celebrate events or special occasions and the only one I pay attention to are birthdays so I haven’t had to opportunity to give much gifts. Hence, I can’t recall the best gift I’ve given. But I think the best thing I’ve given someone is treating them to a delicious meal.
If you were to reflect on the past year, what are your top 3 memories from 2023?
The first would be the Asia tour, which was really fun. Next, it would be the most important event for me personally – my marriage. And lastly, I was able to establish my own company this year. So I’m no longer just an artist but I’m also starting my role as management for the company so it was a huge turning point in my life. I also hope to be able to focus on growing my company for the next 10 years.
What’s next for 2024?
In the coming year, I have a new movie that is releasing called “About Family”. As for drama, I have received a few drama scripts so far, so I’m still considering which drama to take on.
You can catch Lee Seung Gi in the romantic K-drama “The King 2Hearts”, airing on ONE channel on Astro (CH 393) and Unifi TV (Ch 461). Additionally, you can also see him participate in the South Korean reality show “Golf Battle: Birdie Buddies”.
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