The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines has named Korean stars Kim Myung Soo and Choi Bo Min as its newest Tourism Ambassadors for Korea, marking a strategic move to further strengthen tourism ties between the Philippines and South Korea.
Photo courtesy of Universal Records PH
The announcement was made on December 14, 2025, at Consuelo by Chef Vince Garcia. Kim and Choi appeared in custom ensembles by Filipino designer Avel Bacudio, featuring intricate embroidery inspired by iconic Filipino elements such as jeepneys, the bahay kubo, and street vendors. The pieces were crafted from traditional local materials including handwoven abaca, piña, silk cocoon, and inabel. Beyond their roles as celebrities, the two artists were formally introduced as official partners of TPBPHL, tasked with encouraging more Korean travelers to explore the Philippines.
The newly appointed ambassadors immediately began their engagements with a brief but packed visit to the country from December 13 to 14. Their itinerary opened with a round of golf at Beverly Place Golf Club in Clark, Pampanga, a destination known for its scenic landscape, premium facilities, and relaxed luxury appeal—underscoring the Philippines’ growing focus on wellness and high-end tourism.
Activities continued the following day at the PUMA Clark Half Marathon. Choi Bo Min joined local participants in the 5K run, while Kim Myung Soo appeared onstage alongside TPB Chief Operating Officer Marga Nograles. During the event, Kim shared his interest in visiting Siargao in the future and hinted at the possibility of traveling with his fellow INFINITE members on a subsequent trip.
TPBPHL cited the artists’ strong personal connections to the Philippines and their broad influence across Asia as key reasons for their selection. Kim Myung Soo, an actor and member of K-pop group INFINITE, has visited the Philippines multiple times for concerts and fan meetings, cultivating a long-standing relationship with Filipino fans. With upcoming projects on the horizon, his international profile is expected to continue expanding.
Choi Bo Min has also developed close ties to the country, particularly through his involvement in the local television series Beauty Empire. He spent a total of four months traveling between Korea and the Philippines during the production, allowing him to immerse himself in local culture, destinations, and cuisine. With a new drama set to premiere next year, his growing popularity is seen as another bridge connecting Korean audiences to the Philippines.
Both artists are supported locally through management and agent services provided by GLXY Talent Management, a subsidiary of Universal Records Inc.
As TPBPHL Tourism Ambassadors, Kim Myung Soo and Choi Bo Min are set to headline future destination tours, digital campaigns, and promotional events highlighting the Philippines’ beaches, urban attractions, wellness retreats, and cultural landmarks. TPBPHL aims to harness their reach and genuine affinity for the country to inspire more Koreans to experience the Philippines firsthand.
The partnership signals a renewed chapter in Philippine tourism promotion—one that goes beyond showcasing destinations to fostering meaningful and memorable travel experiences.
