‘What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim’ lead stars Kim Chiu and Paul stressed on March 9 the cultural differences between their adaptation and the original series.
Chiu explained in the upcoming show’s media conference at the Quantum Skyview in Araneta Center that their show is very similar to the original K-drama. However, being true to Filipino culture is what sets the two apart.
“Bilang proud Pinoy tayo, maraming nilagay ang mga writers namin, and everyone involved dito sa paggawa ng Secretary Kim the Philippine version na maraming Filipino touch, such as family-oriented, or ‘yung mga more sa comedy side,” said the actress.
Secretary Kim’s Liwanag family depicts a typical Pinoy family: close-knit and with a great sense of humor.
Meanwhile, Avelino echoed his co-star’s sentiments, adding that the show’s writers incorporated Filipinos’ way of life and real-life situations in the country.
“Here, the adaptation, as Kim said, our culture was adapted here: how we are, how we talk, and how things happen here in the Philippines.”
Pressured.
However, localizing a popular series comes with the weight of expectations and inevitable comparisons to the original. Avelino acknowledged this pressure, particularly when portraying characters previously brought to life by Korean stars.
“Of course, there’s pressure because whenever you do an adaptation, you will always be compared to the original series,” he admitted.
His co-star shared similar sentiments, expressing both nervousness and gratitude for the opportunity presented by Viu and Dreamscape Entertainment.
“Of course, sobrang nakakakaba, but at the same time, thankful sa opportunity na binigay ng Viu, ng Dreamscape, ng everyone else,” she revealed. Despite the pressure, Kim conveyed pride in the collaborative effort and the final product’s outcome.
The Filipino adaptation of the hit Korean series also entails Jake Cuenca, Janice de Belen, Franco Laurel, Romnick Sarmenta, Pepe Herrera, Angeline Quinto, Phi Palmos, Kaori Oinuma, JC Alcantara, Yves Flores, Gillian Vicencio, Cai Cortez, Kat Galang, Brian Sy, with special participation from Kim Won-shik.
What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim will premiere on March 18 on Viu.
