Kim Seok-hoon recently made headlines with his visit to Song Eun-yi's new office building in Sangam-dong, which she moved into in 2022. This marked his first visit in two years, and he brought along a unique gift that showcased his distinctive personality.
On the 353rd episode of MBC's variety show 'The Manager,' which aired on the 28th, viewers got a glimpse into Kim Seok-hoon's eco-friendly lifestyle. Known as 'Eco Uncle,' Kim surprised everyone by enduring the heat with just a fan, avoiding the use of air conditioning or portable fans to promote carbon neutrality. His manager, Jeong Ji-young, also demonstrated eco-friendly habits by pre-opening windows, earning her the nickname 'Eco Manager.'
Recently appointed as a Seoul City ambassador, Kim participated in the 'Relaxed Han River 3-Event Festival,' where he successfully completed a 5km run with his manager, encouraged by the cheers of citizens. The duo then headed to a vintage shopping street in Ilsan, where Kim showcased his keen eye for thrift shopping, purchasing everything from jackets and pants to gifts for his wife. He even shared a story about visiting a warehouse store to buy leftover items from the Pyeongchang Olympics, highlighting his frugal nature.
After a satisfying shopping spree, Kim and his manager visited Song Eun-yi's office. True to his 'Eco Uncle' persona, Kim gifted Song a potted plant he had repotted himself and a hat from a thrift store. In return, Song spontaneously opened a flea market, offering items like a 40-year-old classic LP, a music box stamp case, and a mood lamp, sparking a lively bargaining session. Kim successfully completed his transaction with Song, expressing satisfaction with his purchases.
According to Nielsen Korea, the 353rd episode of 'The Manager' achieved a 1.8% viewership rating among the key demographic of viewers aged 20-49, ranking first among entertainment programs aired on the same day. The metropolitan household viewership rating also reached 3.5%, topping all programs in its time slot. A particular highlight was the scene where Kim hesitated over a jacket that exceeded his budget, while his manager used the money he gave her to buy a T-shirt, which peaked at a 4.5% minute-by-minute viewership rating.
Next week's episode promises more excitement as Lee Young-ja spends 'Yumi's Summer Vacation' with popular comedian Lee Soo-ji, showcasing their mother-daughter chemistry. Additionally, 'Variety Star' actress Lee Se-hee will reveal her home and daily life for the first time, displaying her quirky charm, and will have a special meeting with makeup artist Lee Sa-bae, heightening anticipation.
Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr