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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Celebrities devider Miss Universe franchise owner Josh Yugen becomes first PH recipient of Korea's 'Asian Leader Award'

Miss Universe franchise owner Josh Yugen becomes first PH recipient of Korea's 'Asian Leader Award'

Published Nov 1, 2025 01:30 pm
Josh Yugen shows the Asian Leader Award trophy which was presented in South Korea
Josh Yugen shows the Asian Leader Award trophy which was presented in South Korea
Josh Yugen, a renowned Filipino media mogul, philanthropist, and cultural visionary, has been honored with the prestigious Asian Leader Award at the 20th Asia Model Festival held at High1 Resort in Gangwon-do, South Korea.
This moment marks a historic achievement, as Yugen is the first Filipino to receive this distinguished recognition in the festival's 20-year history.
The Asia Model Festival, one of the most respected platforms in Asia, celebrates excellence in fashion, entertainment, and leadership, and recognized Yugen for his outstanding contributions to enhancing Asian representation globally through media, pageantry, and philanthropy.
In addition to this honor, acclaimed actress and singer Arci Muñoz was awarded the "Asian Star Award," making her the first Filipina actress to receive this distinction. This accolade highlights the growing influence of Filipino talent on the international stage.
Previous recipients of the Asia Model Festival include prominent Korean actors Lee Byung-hun (known for "Squid Game" and "G.I. Joe") and Song Joong-ki (famous for "Descendants of the Sun" and "Vincenzo"), as well as Thai superstar Mario Maurer. This highlights the event's prestige and its tradition of honoring Asia’s most celebrated figures.
“I am deeply honoured to represent the Philippines on this global stage,” said Yugen. “This award is not only for me, but for every Filipino dreamer who believes in turning passion into purpose.”
Josh Yugen is the Founder & CEO of Yugen Group, which encompasses House of Yugen, Yugen PR, and Xpedition Magazine — the luxury lifestyle publication he founded in 2015 in Dubai.
Through Yugen PR, his award-winning communications agency, he has collaborated with Hollywood stars, international luxury brands, and global fashion houses, managing red carpets at the Cannes Film Festival, the Venice Film Festival, and major Fashion Weeks in Paris, Copenhagen, Milan, and Dubai.
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