2013 lineup of hottest Hollywood celeb visits in Seoul

A growing number of Hollywood stars make trips to South Korea to promote their films or boost the image of global brands. In 2013 alone, a dozen well-known celebrities flew to the country, and here‘s a list of the top figures.

1. Fanning sisters (Jan. 5)

Dakota Fanning and Elle Fanning were the first Hollywood celebrities to visit Seoul this year. The sisters reportedly came to Seoul to promote local jewelry brand J. Estina, which is also promoted by figure skater Kim Yu-na. Other than their promotional schedule, the Fannings were spotted in the Hongdae area, a famous arts district in the city. 

2. Tom Cruise (Jan. 9)

Having fans of all age groups, Tom Cruise visited Korea before the release of his film “Jack Reacher.” Cruise’s popularity in Korea reached its peak in the late 1990s when he starred in “Jerry Maguire” and “Rain Man,” and has remained strong ever since. His stay in Korea was anticipated more than that of any other celebrity, as this was the actor’s first visit. Upon his departure, a note and care package Cruise left in his hotel room for his local staff went viral online and many were impressed with the Hollywood star’s thoughtfulness.


 

3. Jackie Chan (Feb. 18)

Jackie Chan is a frequent guest in Korea and is known for his deep interest in Korean culture. The action star’s affection for Korean culture led him to speak conversational-level Korean and that impressed the public when he appeared on variety and talk shows such as MBC’s “Golden Fishery” and SBS’ “Running Man.”

4. Arnold Schwarzenegger (Feb. 19)

Many were surprised when they heard Korean director Kim Ji-woon was to release his English-language debut in partnership with Arnold Schwarzenegger. Although “Last Stand” did not fare well at the U.S. box office, the action-packed collaboration of Schwarzenegger and Kim was worth seeing. During his stay, the “Terminator” star showed his friendship with Kim and interest in Korean cinema.

5. Mia Wasikowska (Feb. 19)

In Korea, Mia Wasikowska is best known for her role in Tim Burton’s “Alice in Wonderland” starring Johnny Depp and Anne Hathaway. Many were intrigued by her choice of a thriller genre and harmony with the Korean director Park Chan-wook. Playing the lead role in “Stoker,” Wasikowska pulled off her mysterious character quite well, portraying the true complexity of teenage life.

6. Leonardo DiCaprio (Mar. 6)

Without a doubt, Leonardo DiCaprio was the most highly anticipated Hollywood star visit of the year. No one knows for sure why DiCaprio had never visited Korea before, despite his massive popularity here. At the screening of “Django Unchained,” he strutted along the red carpet in his flawless black suit and received a warm reception from fans.

7. Robert Downey, Jr. (Apr. 3)

“Iron Man 3,” starring Robert Downey, Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow, kicked off its global promotional tour in Seoul in April. Downey, who was here for the first time in five years since promoting the first installment of the superhero franchise, also showed off Psy’s infectious “Gangnam Style” horse dance for the local crowd. 

8. Will Smith (May 5)

Will Smith came to Seoul with his son Jaden Smith to promote his film “After Earth.” His humor had already won Korean fans over when he was here for “Men in Black 3” last year. The public’s focus was also shifted to Jaden, as he was frequently spotted with K-pop idols like Big Bang and Jay Park during his stay. Smith also made jokes about collaborating with Psy, and Jaden chimed in saying he would do a song with Korean artist G-Dragon.

9. Brad Pitt (June 11)

Pitt came to Korea to meet his fans and plug his film “World War Z.” Despite the pouring rain he kept a smile on his face and responded to several fans trying to take photos with him. The Hollywood star brought his son Pax Thien, and told reporters that Pax tagged along to eat galbi, Korean barbecue ribs.

10. Miranda Kerr (June 11)

Kerr arrived at Incheon International Airport, looking gorgeous in skin-tight jeans and floral top. She is here for several TV appearances including tvN’s “SNL Korea” and other promotional events. 


By Suk Gee-hyun
(monicasuk@heraldcorp.com)