The luxurious single house of former baseball player Hwang Jae-gyun, who divorced T-ara's Jiyeon in 2024, is set to be revealed for the first time.
In the 383rd episode of MBC's variety show 'The Manager' (produced by Kang Young-sun, directed by Kim Yoon-jib, Jeon Jae-wook, Kim Hae-ni, Jung Dong-sik, Lee Da-woon, written by Yeo Hyun-jeon), viewers will get a glimpse into Hwang Jae-gyun's life after retiring from a 20-year professional baseball career.
Hwang's single house, reflecting his personal taste, will be showcased for the first time. The house features a stunning view of the Han River and a living room overlooking the baseball stadium he frequented. The interior is filled with figures, Legos, and comic books, revealing his lesser-known hobbies.
Known for his strict self-discipline, having lost 13kg in just six weeks during his career, Hwang now enjoys a leisurely life two weeks post-retirement. He sleeps in without an alarm, gazes at the baseball field outside his window, and indulges in delivery food, embodying the quintessential 'unemployed' lifestyle. Particularly amusing is his newfound love for French fries and regular cola, which he humorously dubs as the 'taste of the real world.'
The episode also reveals Hwang's surprising minimalist lifestyle. Declaring his retirement, he lists baseball gear he no longer needs on second-hand sites. Notably, he attempts to sell his cherished baseball bat for just 50,000 won, and when it doesn't sell, he generously offers it for free. The show will delve into his candid feelings about retirement and the mixed emotions he experiences as a legendary player.
Additionally, the episode highlights the touching story of Hwang's 22-year friendship with his manager, Park Shin-woong. The two have been inseparable since high school, sharing the dream of becoming baseball players and experiencing life's ups and downs together. Park now uses Hwang's home like a shopping mall, sharing clothes and shoes.
Park reveals Hwang's extraordinary loyalty, recalling how 15 years ago, Hwang paid his rent during a difficult time, despite earning only 1.5 million won a month. This act of kindness deeply moved the show's commentators.
Catch the full story on MBC's 'The Manager' this Saturday at 11:10 PM.
Reported by Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr