In an apparent show of support for Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun, a fan alleged to be a rich Chinese woman ran a full-page ad for the heartthrob in the May 26 edition of a Korean daily newspaper.  

“Dear Soo-hyun, love and support you forever! I wish Soo-hyun get awards on the 50th Baeksang Arts Awards. Cecilia,” read the ad, written both in Korean and English. The advertiser did not disclose who Cecilia was, but Yonhap reported that she is said to be the wife of a Hong Kong business tycoon.  

The ad was published in the run-up to the 50th Baeksang Art Awards, slated to be held on Tuesday in Seoul. The 27-year-old sensation was nominated for four acting categories -- Best TV Actor, Popular TV Actor, Rookie Film Actor and Popular Film Actor -- with his film “Secretly Greatly” and drama “My Love from the Star.”

“Cecilia wanted to run the ad to give strength to Kim Soo-hyun,” an official from the Chosun Ilbo newspaper was quoted as saying. 

From time to time, fans have collectively posted newspaper ads to show their support and love for stars, but this is the first time an individual has placed a full-page ad. The ad allegedly cost around 40 million won ($39,000).    

“As I know, a Chinese fan posted the ad. Even for us, it is amazing to see (what she did for Kim),” Kim’s management agency KeyEast said.

Kim has enjoyed explosive popularity in Asia with the success of “My Love from the Star,” in which he played an alien who arrives in Korea by traveling through time from hundreds of years ago and falls in love with a modern-day actress, played by Jun Ji-hyun.

By Ock Hyun-ju (laeticia.ock@heraldcorp.com)