Jo In-sung has emerged as a new standout on the show, catching up with Yoo Jae-suk.
On the October 3rd episode of SBS's variety show 'Anytime, Anywhere,' the ratings soared to a peak of 6.1% in the metropolitan area, with household ratings at 5.8% and 2049 ratings at 2.2%, according to Nielsen Korea. The nationwide rating also reached 4.8%, marking a new high for Season 4, which had a previous low of 2.9%.
On this episode, Jo In-sung, Park Jung-min, and Park Hae-joon warmed up the atmosphere with conversations ranging from their recent activities to baseball, alongside Yoo Jae-suk and Yoo Yeon-seok. Jo In-sung humorously expressed his lack of competitiveness, saying, "If Jae-suk is in a game slump, then I'm in a yips. I just say, 'You win.'" Park Hae-joon joined in, admitting, "I'm not good at games either." In contrast, Park Jung-min declared, "I'm the embodiment of competitiveness. I'll show you," raising expectations from Yoo Jae-suk and Yoo Yeon-seok.
The first 'gap' they visited was a leather workshop run by a friendly owner known for his community spirit. The mission was to move a button on a leather crafting ruler in a game called 'Ruler Flick.' Park Jung-min and Park Hae-joon succeeded on their first try, prompting Jo In-sung to exclaim, "We have talent!" However, when Yoo Jae-suk made consecutive mistakes, Jo In-sung humorously remarked, "What's wrong with him?" causing laughter. Ultimately, 'the embodiment of competitiveness' Park Jung-min miraculously completed the third stage, thrilling everyone. Jo In-sung expressed his excitement, saying, "Adrenaline is rushing," while Park Jung-min, overjoyed, even took off his cherished scarf, drawing laughs.
During lunchtime, Jo In-sung showcased his local knowledge by recommending popular eateries, even checking in on the owners of his favorite spots. Yoo Yeon-seok was impressed, saying, "He's conquered the neighborhood." Park Jung-min once again became the 'king of games' by winning the lunch bet, following his success in the gap mission. Jo In-sung praised him, saying, "You're the king of games," while Yoo Jae-suk added, "Today is your day, Jung-min."
The second 'gap' was at an MZ hideout. The four gap owners shared their unique story of opening a bar after experiencing solo travel and bar culture, captivating the five men with their high energy. The second mission was 'Bottle Pong,' where they had to bounce a ping pong ball to knock off a target ball on a bottle. They impressively cleared the first two stages in just three attempts, thanks to the efforts of Yoo Jae-suk, Yoo Yeon-seok, and Jo In-sung.
Despite confessing his lack of gaming skills, Park Hae-joon humorously requested, "Give me two hours of practice," showing his deep involvement. Finally, on the ninth attempt, Jo In-sung's precise shot and Park Jung-min's finishing move successfully completed the third stage, delivering a dopamine rush. Park Jung-min shared, "I can't stop thinking about it, I can't sleep," leaving a lasting impression.
Yoo Jae-suk, Yoo Yeon-seok, Jo In-sung, Park Jung-min, and Park Hae-joon showcased impeccable chemistry and thrilling mission successes, creating an epic dopamine-filled narrative. Park Jung-min, in particular, led the charge with his competitive spirit, providing exhilarating excitement.
'Anytime, Anywhere' airs every Tuesday at 9 PM.
Tae Yuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr