Thai super-couple, Mark Prin and Kimberley Woltemas, were a vision straight out of a fairytale during their Reel to Real fan meeting in Manila.
Reel to Real: Mark and Kimberley's First Fan Meeting in Manila
On March 12, 2023, a sunny Sunday afternoon became even brighter with the arrival of Mark Prin and Kimberley Woltemas in Manila, Philippines.
The reel couple turned real engaged couple brought their love story to Filipino fans at the SM North EDSA Skydome.
Kicking off the highly-anticipated event with a press conference, the Lakorn prince and princess spoke about the warm welcome they received at the airport and their excitement to finally meet their Filipino fans in person.
When asked what their favorite local food was, they instantly answered that they love adobo and sisig. (Ditto, great choices!)
Once the clock struck 7 PM, the show began with the pair of the night transforming the Skydome into a romantic wonderland. Looking dapper in a smart casual suit, Mark took the stage first with a solo performance of "Mun Kong Pen Kwahm Ruk" by STAMP. The popular soundtrack came from the series, Love By Chance.
Up next was the belle of the ball, Kimberley, who stunned in a rainbow-esque multi-tiered gown. Being her ever-charming self, the Thai actress serenaded fans with her version of "The Show" by Lenka.
And to quote the famous lyrics of the song: yes, we did enjoy the show, Kimmy!
Game On
After thanking fans for being in attendance, Mark and Kimberley threw in a few Tagalog words, to the audience's delight.
Mark endearingly called his fiancée "ganda" (beautiful), whereas Kimberley responded with "My pogi" (handsome).
Believe us when we say that the record-breaking cheers of the viewers can still be heard at this very moment.
The fan meeting progressed into the game portion, kicking things off with "What's In the Box". This hilarious sensory challenge kept the artists guessing and the crowd laughing.
The stakes were higher, as every wrong answer equated to a consequence.
The loser would be given a local dish to try. Surprisingly, they could not be fazed by the exotic flavors of bopis nor the prominent aroma of durian. In fact, they genuinely enjoyed snacking on these Filipino delicacies. Sounds more like a prize rather than a consequence, right?
Now that's a game we like playing!
Once the next game was in play, the couple had to identify which one of them was "most likely to..."
This game revealed that Kimberley is unanimously the better cook, and that they both tend to get cranky when they're hungry. (Same, MarKim, same.)
The next game challenged a few fans to a staring contest with Mark and Kim, and we got to admit: it was intense!
Thai x Filipino
Inspiring awe all over again, the two capped off the night clad in traditional Filipino attire. Kimberley was a vision of elegance in a subtle crimson Filipiniana gown, while Mark stunned in a polished black Barong.
Gracing the Skydome with their harmony once again, the duo performed a beautiful rendition of "Pag-ibig Na Kaya" (Originally by Rachelle Ann Go and Christian Bautista.)
From the MK Fam, With Love
The second to the last surprise of the night was a video filled with well wishes from the MK Fam (Mark and Kim fandom). Tugging at all our heartstrings, love was truly in the air at the Reel to Real fan meeting.
It goes without saying that both Mark and Kim were overwhelmed with love and thankfulness for their supportive fandom.
"We're out of words. It's so overwhelming. Thank you so much. This means a lot to us. We feel so warm in our hearts. So so happy to be here with you guys. This is a dream come true, actually, because we always wanted to be here." -Kimberley Woltemas in response to the surprise video from Filipino fans
Fans will get to watch brand-new MarKim content this year, as the two will be cross-paired with Nadech Kugimiya and Yaya Sperbund in separate TV series. (We see binge-watching in your future!)
30 and Thriving
The finale highlight of the night was a sweet birthday cake for Mark Prin, who will be celebrating the big 3-0 on March 19. Happy birthday, Mark!
While the cake may have been sweet, Kimberley's words were the icing on top:
“I just wish him all the best in life. You know, you are very brave. I hope your health is good this year. We have a very long year ahead of us. I love you.”
The Lakorn Royalty Wedding of the Year
Surprise! There was one more big surprise to be unwrapped: Mark and Kimberley will be getting married this year! *Cue the wedding bells*
Hoping to see these two Lakorn royals return to Manila when they're Mr. And Mrs.!
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SPECIAL THANKS TO NEUWAVE EVENTS & PRODUCTIONS FOR INVITING POPMACHINE MEDIA TO COVER "REEL TO REAL: MARK AND KIMBERLEY'S FIRST FAN MEETING IN MANILA