Lee Jong Suk Abruptly Cancels Manila Fan Meeting Due to Massive Anti-Corruption Protests

South Korean actor Lee Jong Suk has abruptly canceled the Manila stop of his 2025 Asia Fan Meeting Tour ‘WITH: Just Like This!’ just under two weeks before the scheduled date.

His agency, Ace Factory (and local promoter Wilbros Live), announced the cancellation on November 17, citing “unforeseen circumstances” related to large-scale public safety concerns.

The Official Reason for Cancellation

Agency Statement: Ace Factory confirmed that the cancellation was due to a “rally scheduled for the same date,” and the decision was made “after careful consideration, prioritizing the safety of fans, the artist, and all staff.”

• The “Unforeseen Circumstance”: The unexpected event is a massive, ongoing series of anti-corruption protests in the Philippines. These protests are specifically aimed at condemning the alleged corruption and misuse of billions of dollars in government funds intended for flood mitigation projects. Public outrage has intensified following recent destructive typhoons that have caused significant casualties and severe flooding.

• Protest Scale: Recent reports indicate that the demonstrations in Manila have drawn hundreds of thousands of participants, including a major three-day rally organized by the influential Iglesia ni Cristo sect, which has shut down roads, offices, and schools. The protests create significant security and logistical risks in the capital.

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Fan Reaction and Tour Context

The cancellation, which came less than two weeks before the event, caused a mix of disappointment and appreciation among the fanbase.

• Local vs. International Fans: Local fans expressed disappointment but largely appreciated the safety-first approach taken by Lee’s team. However, international fans who had already purchased flights and accommodation specifically for the Manila show voiced frustration, questioning why a postponement to a later date in 2026 was not arranged instead of an outright cancellation.
• Refunds: Local promoter Wilbros Live confirmed that all tickets purchased would be refunded. The process was detailed, with credit/debit card purchases receiving automatic refunds within 15–30 banking days, and cash purchases requiring an in-person visit to TicketNet on December 15–21, 2025.

Also Read: The One K-Drama Genre Lee Jong Suk Refuses to Star In

• Tour Status: Lee Jong Suk kicked off his ‘With: Just Like This!’ Asia tour in Seoul in September, followed by successful stops in Tokyo, Osaka, and Taipei. He is still scheduled to meet fans in Bangkok and Hong Kong later this year, as the agency promised they “sincerely hope that actor Lee Jong-suk will have the opportunity to meet Filipino fans again in the near future.”

The cancellation serves as a clear indication of the severity and volatility of the current political environment in Manila, superseding the actor’s planned engagement.