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Korean heartthrob Lee Byung-hun has been appointed California’s honorary tourism ambassador to South Korea, Wednesday.
Lee received a certificate of appointment directly from California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger at the JW Marriott Hotel in Seoul. Schwarzenegger was visiting Seoul to boost collaboration on trade and technology with the Korean government and various companies.
With the new title, Lee will participate in a variety of campaigns as tourism ambassador that aims to help promote California as a premier travel destination for Korean tourists.
“California looks forward to welcoming more Korean tourists eager to experience the California life style,” said Caroline Beteta, chief executive officer of the California Travel and Tourism Commission. “Recently, Lee embraced his inner California, inspiring his fellow South Koreans to do the same.”
Lee is one of Korea’s most popular film stars. Making his debut in 1991, the 40-year-old has since starred in many films, including his first Hollywood role in the movie “GI Joe.”
The number of Korean travelers to California has increased since 2008, when Korean nationals began benefiting from the U.S. visa waiver program.
