Piolo Pascual, one of the Philippines' enduring heartthrobs, recently demonstrated that his charm is timeless when he participated in the viral Kim Seon Ho smile challenge. This challenge was inspired by the heartwarming moments from the South Korean drama When Life Gives You Tangerines, which became a massive hit.

Pascual shared his version of the challenge on TikTok, where he captivated his followers with a playful wink and smile, effortlessly mimicking the popular South Korean actor Kim Seon Ho. As of now, the Filipino actor’s video has accumulated around 1.8 million views and nearly 300,000 likes, with thousands of fans flooding the comment section in admiration.

Piolo Pascual mimicks the popular South Korean actor Kim Seon Ho

The video sparked excitement not just among Piolo’s fans but also within the broader online community. Other local celebrities, including BINI members Sheena and Jhoanna, Kira Balinger, Awra Briguela, Maki, Dasuri Choi, and Rica Peralejo, have also taken part in the trending challenge, showing their support for the fun and lighthearted trend.

Rica Peralejo, in particular, has gone a step further by discussing the possibility of a local adaptation of the popular drama. She shared her thoughts on who would be the perfect Filipino actors to portray the characters, suggesting names like Paolo Avelino, Kim Chiu, Jericho Rosales, and even herself for the roles. This sparked further excitement, as many Filipino fans expressed their enthusiasm for the idea of a local remake of When Life Gives You Tangerines.

Actor Kim Seon Ho in viral scene in drama "When Life Gives You Tangerines"

The K-drama has gained significant attention in the Philippines due to its compelling storyline, which features the lead characters played by IU, Park Bo Gum, and Kim Seon Ho. The series has resonated deeply with viewers because of its emotional depth and relatable themes, touching on personal growth and overcoming life's challenges. The show quickly climbed the ranks both in Korea and internationally, achieving high viewership ratings and dominating discussions on social media and streaming platforms.

Set against the backdrop of a small coastal town, When Life Gives You Tangerines follows three main characters whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways as they navigate their personal struggles and emotional challenges. The series' heartfelt narrative and captivating performances from its lead actors have helped it become one of the standout dramas of recent years.

For Piolo Pascual, joining the Kim Seon Ho smile challenge was not just about participating in a viral trend, but it was also a playful expression of his lasting appeal as a Filipino celebrity. His participation in this challenge only reinforces his reputation as one of the country’s most beloved actors. Fans were quick to recognize the charm and warmth he exuded, which closely mirrors the same qualities that made Kim Seon Ho a household name worldwide.

The challenge has become a fun way for people to express themselves, with many local celebrities hopping on the trend to share their versions of the smile-and-wink combo that has captured the hearts of fans across social media platforms. It’s clear that this challenge isn’t just a fleeting trend but a testament to the global appeal of K-drama and the camaraderie among fans and celebrities alike, both in South Korea and internationally.

As for the drama When Life Gives You Tangerines, its universal themes of love, loss, and self-discovery continue to resonate with audiences everywhere. With its powerful performances and gripping storyline, it’s no wonder that fans, including Filipino viewers, have been captivated by the show’s authenticity and emotional depth.

In addition to the charm of its lead actors, the story's setting in a picturesque coastal town has added to its allure. Viewers are drawn to the natural beauty of the environment as much as to the characters’ emotional journeys. The series has done a fantastic job of highlighting the intricacies of relationships and personal growth, making it a must-watch for fans of thoughtful and well-crafted dramas.

With the growing popularity of K-dramas in the Philippines, When Life Gives You Tangerines is just one example of how these shows continue to capture the hearts and imaginations of Filipino audiences. Local celebrities like Piolo Pascual, through their participation in viral challenges like the Kim Seon Ho smile challenge, continue to show their connection with both global and local entertainment trends, creating a bridge between cultures and fans.