One reason why actor Song Joong-ki was so effective in his role as an army captain in "Descendants of the Sun" is that he had a two-year stint in the South Korean Army just prior to shooting the 16-episode show. While fulfilling the compulsory requirement among Korean males, the actor read a book which he liked.
This was "Be Happy Like A Child" authored by Alex Lim. The book showed photos of Tibetan, Nepalese and Pakistani children and chronicles their dreams and journey over 10 years. In a Facebook fan page, the 30-year-old actor shared, “This is the book that I read when I was in the army. With this book, life should be happier.”
The book was actually published in March 2012. On April 17, Song Joong-ki donated a copy of the book to the volunteers of politics and financial women leaders at the Future Bazaar, reported Pictigar. The “Descendants of the Sun” actor also endorsed the book, helping it reach millions in sales.
Because of Song Joong-ki’s endorsement, it helped “Be Happy Like A Child” become a bestseller. Out of gratitude, Kim wrote, “Thanks to Song Joongki the book became alive once again. May you always be happy too.”
The incident just demonstrated the actor’s power of endorsement – whether it is cosmetics, clothes, tea, water purifier, rice cooker, an airline or a book – anything he touches would turn into “gold” in terms of sales. For now, it would be safe to say that Song Joong-ki is the “King Midas” of South Korean and Chinese endorsements.