Interview: Ji Chang-wook officiates the opening of Rado's new Pavilion KL boutique
A Rado experience with Global Ambassador Ji Chang-wook & CEO Adrian Bosshard in Kuala Lumpur.
It made for a momentous occasion when Rado invited and jetted in Ji Chang-wook to inaugurate the opening of its new sleek and modern boutique at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. Notably, it was also Rado Malaysia’s first ambassador event as well as the first overseas assignment for Ji after being signed up as a Rado Global Ambassador early last year.
Malaysia-based fans turned out in full force while others flew in from as far as Indonesia and Australia to join in the festivities and show their unwavering support for the South Korean superstar. Upping the excitement, Rado CEO Adrian Bosshard unveiled the other main attraction, a yellow gold-coloured Rado DiaStar Original with the brand’s groundbreaking CeramosTM bezel. He then presented the watch to Ji, who stands as the first official owner of this striking new iteration of the DiaStar Original, first launched in 1972.
The versatile and talented actor had an eventful year in 2023 and he looks set to get even busier with new projects for the coming year. Besides joining the Rado family, he wrapped up acting gigs for two well-lauded K-drama series: crime thriller The Worst of Evil and rom-com Welcome to Samdal-ri, streaming now on Disney+ and Netflix respectively.
Hence, it was an honour to have had an opportunity for a meet-and-greet session along with a quick chat with Ji as well as Bosshard during their time in Kuala Lumpur.
WITH JI CHANG-WOOK
L’OFFICIEL: Can you describe your journey with Rado from the beginning, especially how you and Rado came together?
JI CHANG-WOOK: I am delighted to announce that I joined Rado as a Global Ambassador in 2023. I’m thrilled to have been able to work with Rado, from the commercial shoot to the event in Korea to my recent visit to Malaysia. Thank you so much for the warm welcome and stay tuned for my future projects with Rado.
LO: What attracts you to Rado most?
JI: It’s the good materials. At the same time, the watches are comfortable to wear and come in a variety of beautiful designs, so you’ll have plenty of options.
LO: Rado has a large collection covering many genres. Which particular collection do you relate to the most?
JI: Personally, I like the DiaStar Original Skeleton. It’s the right size and beautifully designed. For others, I recommend Rado’s signature Captain Cook series.
LO: As a Rado ambassador, do you have any special messages for your fans?
JI: It’s been a long time since I’ve been in Malaysia, and I really appreciate the welcome. It’s great to be able to greet you from abroad with Rado as a Rado Global Ambassador. Stay tuned and keep up the good work.
WITH ADRIAN BOSSHARD
LO: How has Rado enforced its DNA of “If we can imagine it, we can make it. And if we can make it, we will do it.” in 2023?
ADRIAN BOSSHARD: The vision is, since the foundation, unchanged and more than ever true today. In 2023, we celebrated the Art of Skeletonisation with our product lines: DiaStar Original, Captain Cook and True Square, featuring our new Rado R808 calibre.
LO: What would you count as the successes you and your team have achieved in recent years?
AB: Every customer that discovers the Rado difference is a success. Thanks to the launch of our vintage-inspired DiaStar Original and Captain Cook, or the new True Square, we were able to attract new and young customers who are looking for unique products with individual DNA.
LO: How does this newly launched DiaStar model — the yellow gold-coloured DiaStar Original — fit in with the trajectory of the DiaStar’s recent releases?
AB: After the huge success of the DiaStar Original 60- Year Anniversary Edition and the platinum-coloured DiaStar Original Skeleton, it was a logical next step to launch the yellow gold model that is highly appreciated in Southeast Asia.
LO: Why was the DiaStar launched for Ji Chang-wook’s first appearance in Malaysia, as well as for his first Rado appearance in Seoul in mid-2023?
AB: The main reason is that the DiaStar Original launch is one of the most spectacular watch releases this year and with its unique design, a favourite of Ji Chang-wook.
LO: DiaStar celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2022 — why is it still resonating with the young generation as it did back when it was unveiled in 1972?
AB: We see this at Rado and also from other luxury brands that the vintage designs of the Sixties and Seventies are highly appreciated by the young generation who are looking for something that stands out. The DiaStar Original is no doubt one of the icons in the watch industry.
