Korean actor Ahn Jae-wook will appear in a magazine ad for U.S.-based Ford Motor Company.
Ahn's representatives at Motis (Ahn's management company) said that he will appear in ads for Ford's new "Edge" automobile. Through the online, printed, and television media, the advertisements will appear in targeted markets throughout the United States.
According to Motis, the ad, featuring Ahn, will appear on three magazines. He will also appear on a number of online and TV advertisements.
The Motis representative said, "Ahn's right of publicity on his images published on magazines and on online ad will be valid for six months; and, twelve months for his voice used in online and TV ads".
The official added, "Ford's selection of Ahn as its advertising spokesperson is a result of the car company's recognition of the 'Hallyu' actor's high marketability".
The term "Hallyu" literally means "Korean wave". The term was coined by a Chinese newspaper to describe the influx of Korean movies and music into Chinese society. The Korean media adopted the term to describe Korea's cultural influence and accessibility overseas.
Ahn was born and raised in Seoul. He started his acting career after graduating from Seoul Arts University in 1994 as a theatre major. In the same year, he made his debut in the drama, "The Song of a Blind Bird", which was based on a true story. Some popular dramas that he has appeared in include "Star in my Heart" (1997) and "Oh! Pil-seung, Bong Soon-Young" (2004). He has also appeared in a few movies such as "First Kiss" (1998) with actress Choi Ji-woo and "Garden of Heaven" (2003).
In addition to his television and movie credits, he has also been a successful singer. Some of his popular albums include "Sounds Like You" (2005) and "Forever" (1997).
Lyrics of "Forever" sung by Ahn are as follows:
I can't forget you, the one I loved
For the chance to see you again,
I will wait for you.
It is only a momentary departure
So long
Our sad love
It would remain here with me
Until the day that my life ends
The final confession
That becomes a stream of tears
I can't erase that
It was only your love that gave meaning to my life
Come back to me, even it seems too late
So our love can continue, forever.
English )
