On the YouTube channel 'Jo Hyun Ah's Ordinary Thursday Night,' hosted by singer Jo Hyun Ah, a video titled 'End-of-Century Balladeers Gather: If It Were Me... Leaving a Cold... (?)' was uploaded.
The video featured ballad legends from the 2000s, Lee Ki Chan, Tei, and Nayoon Kwon, who candidly shared their stories. Tei and Nayoon Kwon addressed the legendary 'Thailand honeymoon trip' rumor that had sparked curiosity about their relationship, bringing laughter to the studio.
Nayoon Kwon recounted, "My first overseas trip was to Thailand with Tei hyung, and there was a serious article claiming we went on a honeymoon." He added, "Hyung returned in a wheelchair, and I was pushing it from behind," explaining the misunderstanding that arose among the public.
Tei, surprised, exclaimed, "I never thought of it that way," causing laughter. Some even speculated that Tei's wheelchair use was due to cosmetic surgery.
However, the wheelchair incident was due to a life-threatening accident. According to Nayoon Kwon, during the peak sun hours from 12 PM to 2 PM, when even locals avoid going out, they were tanning on a yacht. Nayoon Kwon recalled, "The breeze was so cool that we didn't realize how hot it was, and Tei hyung fell asleep without a shirt."
As a result, Tei suffered severe burns, ranging from second to third degree, and even fainted in the car on the way back home. Tei remembered, "I almost got fried. The breeze was so cool that I didn't realize how hot it was," recalling the nerve-wracking moment.
Tei also addressed past rumors about his sexuality. He explained, "Back then, it wasn't common for men to go to cafes together, but I enjoyed such activities with friends, including Nayoon Kwon." He shared that entertainment reporters advised him to be cautious due to rumors about him dating well-dressed men. Nayoon Kwon added, "Even if I didn't have plans on Friday, I dressed up just in case, but it was misunderstood," expressing his frustration.
Debuting in 2004 with 'Love... Leaves a Scent,' Tei has produced numerous hits like 'Resembling Someone' and 'Same Pillow.' Recently, he showcased his enduring popularity by reaching the top of the charts with a remake of Buzz's 'Monologue.' Besides his singing career, Tei is thriving as a musical actor, entertainer, and successful restaurateur, enjoying a second peak in his career.
Reporter Chaeryeong Lim, TenAsia syjj426@tenasia.co.kr