Jang Nara, who married a cinematographer six years her junior in 2022, is set to make her debut as a regular on a variety show. She expressed her excitement and shared her husband's candid reaction, drawing attention.
Sung Dong-il, Kim Hee-won, and Jang Nara are the new hosts of tvN's 'House on Wheels - Beyond the Ocean: Hokkaido Edition,' which premieres today (12th). Returning after three years, CJ ENM's hit variety show 'House on Wheels - Beyond the Ocean: Hokkaido Edition' (hereafter 'House on Wheels') follows the concept of traveling with one's own home. The show, which has explored various regions across Korea, now embarks on a new adventure overseas. Joining long-time hosts Sung Dong-il and Kim Hee-won, actress Jang Nara becomes the first female host, promising a refreshing change to the show.
In the first episode airing today, the trio of Sung Dong-il, Kim Hee-won, and Jang Nara embark on an exciting journey across the sea with 'House on Wheels.' Joining them as the first guests are actors Um Tae-goo and Shin Eun-soo, adding to the excitement of their first international adventure.
Jang Nara shares her thoughts on becoming a new host. She admits, "It's chaos because I've never done it before, but it seems fun," and likens 'House on Wheels' to 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,' showcasing her down-to-earth charm. She also reveals her husband's reaction, saying, "He thought 'House on Wheels' would suit me well and said I've made it. As soon as I heard about the offer, I called him, and he came home with a big smile."
Jang Nara also shares a behind-the-scenes story about obtaining a trailer license for the show. "I have to turn the steering wheel with my whole body, but I'm too short to reach the pedals," she confesses. She adds, "My husband said it would be cool if I got the license, so I worked hard. But I failed the next day. I was so frustrated that I ate spicy hot pot and tried again, and I passed," making Sung Dong-il laugh. Sung Dong-il and Kim Hee-won joke, "We should keep provoking her since she does everything when she's angry," hinting at the chemistry between 'Tom Sawyer' Jang Nara and the playful Sung Dong-il and Kim Hee-won.
First guests Um Tae-goo and Shin Eun-soo also bring unexpected charm and humor. Known for his quiet demeanor, Um Tae-goo engages in lively banter with Shin Eun-soo, prompting Kim Hee-won to remark, "Tae-goo, have you become more talkative since starting YouTube?" This transformation of the 'extremely introverted' Um Tae-goo piques curiosity.
The episode showcases 'House on Wheels' as it ventures beyond Korea for the first time, bringing exotic scenery and atmosphere to viewers' homes. The culinary skills of 'Chef Sung' Sung Dong-il, who will cook with local ingredients, are also anticipated. With a new setting, new members, and a new home, expectations for the first episode of 'House on Wheels' are soaring.
tvN's brand campaign 'Run After Work,' which encourages modern individuals to regain their daily routines after work, attracted over 20,000 applicants in September. Participants must complete missions by watching various tvN programs, including 'House on Wheels - Beyond the Ocean: Hokkaido Edition,' 'Typhoon Family,' 'Shin's Project,' 'You Quiz,' and 'Amazing Saturday,' from October 4th to October 30th.
Even if you missed out on the initial selection, there's another chance to win through the quiz event for the premiere of 'House on Wheels - Beyond the Ocean' on October 12th. More details can be found on tvN's website and social media.
'House on Wheels - Beyond the Ocean: Hokkaido Edition' premieres today (12th) at 7:40 PM.
Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr