'Iron Man 3' Tour: Robert Downey Jr. Travels the World

Robert Downey Jr.

Fans lined up for hours in sub-freezing temperatures outside the Forbidden City gates to get a glimpse of -- and maybe an autograph from -- the star as he arrived on the red carpet. 

Robert Downey Jr.

The Iron Man franchise is credited with rebooting Downey's career and elevating the charismatic and quick-witted star from gifted character actor to bankable action hero. 

Robert Downey Jr.

Iron Man 3's Chinese co-producer, DMG, says the event is the first time a foreign film has been allowed to use the Forbidden City for a promotional event. The party was held at Taimiao Temple inside the historic palace's walls. The stage dressings and the star's grand entrance were suitably extravagant. 

DMG President Wu Bing and Robert Downey Jr. with Local Presenters

At another press event earlier in the day, Downey won over local fans and press by saying: "I’m interested in all things Chinese, and I live a very Chinese life in America. I made it my business to pay attention to what’s happening here culturally.”

Robert Downey Jr.

Local industry players, press and government officials -- along with some lucky fans -- were invited to the stage presentation, which was followed by a late-night after party. 

Robert Downey Jr.

Downey was presented with an enormous card signed by over 5,000 Chinese fans, wishing him a happy 48th birthday. The card set a Guinness World Record for the most signatures on a single birthday card -- the actor was also given a certificate verifying the record feat. 

DMG President Wu Bing, Chinese Co-Star Wang Xueqi, Robert Downey Jr.

Downey exchanged some stage banter with Chinese co-star Wang Xueqi, who plays the pivotal role of Dr. Wu, a friend from Tony Stark's past who is said to save the billionaire lothario's life in the franchise's upcoming third installment. 

Robert Downey Jr.

In honor of his 48th birthday, which falls on the Year of the Snake, Downey was also given a giant golden snake throne. 

DMG CEO Dan Mintz, DMG President Wu Bing, Robert Downy Jr., DMG Chairman Peter Xiao

Iron Man 3 is co-financed by Marvel and Chinese entertainment company DMG. DMG had earlier suggested that the film would be an official U.S.-Chinese co-production, giving Marvel a larger slice of the Chinese box office, but it's now understood that the film will be classified as an import. The movie will benefit from DMG's local foothold for Chinese marketing and promotion, though. The producers recently announced that there will be a special cut for the Chinese market, with more scenes set in the country and a feature appearance by Chinese star Fan Bingbing.

Robert Downey Jr. with an Audi

Robert Downey Jr. posed in South Korea with an Audi. The Audi R8 is said to be featured prominently in Iron Man 3.

Robert Downey Jr.

Downey made a big impression while in South Korea to promote his fourth time donning the Iron Man suit in film.

Heroes Hit Korea

Fans came out to a lavish Iron Man 3 celebration in South Korea.

Ironman 3

Downey and Paltrow have been on a whirlwind world tour to promote the third film in the superhero franchise. Their travels have taken them to Russia, Korea and China.

Gwyneth Paltrow and Robert Downey Jr.

Paltrow and Downey smiled in Munich, Germany while promoting their Marvel threequel. The film's London premiere was scheduled for April 17, but was been pushed back one day to allow for the funeral for the former British prime minister Margaret Thatcher.

Ironman 3

In Munich, Gwyneth Paltrow stood by Robert Downy Jr.'s side wearing a stylish white Kaufmanfranco dress and smiling at her co-star's antics.

Gwyneth Paltrow and Robert Downey Jr.

Downey posed for a picture by Paltrow in Munich, Germany.

Robert Downey Jr. in Germany

Robert Downey Jr. showed up to an Iron Man 3 press event in Germany clad in custom-made traditional lederhosen and bright green socks.