Gwyneth Dorado meets President Marcos after Korean success

Filipina singer-songwriter Gwyneth Dorado received a warm welcome from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. at Malacañang, following a series of career breakthroughs that have raised her profile in South Korea.

The 21-year-old, currently based in South Korea, paid a courtesy call on President Marcos, who briefly interacted with the young artist before performing, singing part of “Bato sa Buhangin,” by the 70s Filipino band Cinderella.

Her visit to Malacañang comes after several major accomplishments in South Korea. Dorado became the only foreign contestant to make it to the Top 4 of the Korean vocal competition “Sing Again 4,” eventually finishing as the show’s runner-up. She followed that achievement by winning the Netflix Korea reality music competition “Famous Singers Need a Hit Song.”

The win has opened up more opportunities for Dorado in the Korean entertainment scene, including the release of her original song “Losing My Heart” and her contribution to the soundtrack of the South Korean romance-comedy series “My Royal Nemesis.”

Dorado’s ability to establish herself in the Korean music industry is the latest chapter in a career that started when she was still a child. At just 10 years old, she became one of the grand finalists of the first season of “Asia’s Got Talent,” marking her early emergence as one of the Philippines’ promising young vocal talents.

Dorado was also invited as a guest performer at the Korea Travel Fiesta 2026 in collaboration with the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) Manila Office.

The winter-themed tourism event was held from August 22 to 23 at the Music Hall and Central Atrium of SM Mall of Asia. On August 23, Dorado took the stage at the Music Hall, performing popular tracks, including her well-known covers from reality shows.

She followed the showcase with a more intimate gathering for her supporters. Later that same day, Dorado held a separate limited-slot fan meeting at the Metro Cafe in Pasay City.

Afterwards, Dorado shared several behind-the-scenes photos on social media, giving fans a glimpse of her time onstage as well as the gifts she received from Filipino supporters.

“hi, ph :> I missed you."

“Thanks to @koreatourismorganizationmnl I'm so happy that I get to perform in the Philippines again!! Doraji people, I was so excited and glad to meet Kagai after a long time. See you again hehehe. I love you all <3” she wrote.