Kim Tae-ri Debuts Her First Variety Show 'After School Teacher Tae-ri'
Following the recent launch of Park Bo-gum's variety show, tvN has introduced another exciting program featuring actress Kim Tae-ri. Titled 'After School Teacher Tae-ri,' this marks Kim Tae-ri's first venture into a variety show under her own name, generating much anticipation.

On the 20th, an online press conference was held for tvN's new variety show 'After School Teacher Tae-ri.' The event was attended by directors Park Ji-ye and Hwang Seul-woo, along with cast members Kim Tae-ri, Choi Hyun-wook, Kangnam, and Code Kunst.

'After School Teacher Tae-ri' is a reality show set in a small village elementary school, featuring a unique after-school theater class. Kim Tae-ri takes on the role of the theater teacher, with Choi Hyun-wook and Kangnam as assistant teachers. Code Kunst joins as the music director for the theater production.

Kim Tae-ri Debuts Her First Variety Show 'After School Teacher Tae-ri'
Regarding the show's title, Kim Tae-ri shared, "When I first received the proposal, it wasn't titled 'Teacher Tae-ri.' The themes of theater, elementary students, and a small rural school resonated with me. I felt a small thrill and wondered what I would see, feel, and how much fun I could have."

She continued, "While filming, the title changed to 'Teacher Tae-ri,' which made me nervous. I initially resisted, saying 'No way!' with a laugh. Although I felt personal pressure, I couldn't have managed without the other teachers. They were a great support, making me cautious about leading with my name, which added to the pressure and tension."

Kim Tae-ri also mentioned, "We had a 'theater notebook' where I answered the kids' questions after class. Initially, I responded alone, but later, I collaborated with Potato (Choi Hyun-wook) and Polar Bear (Kangnam). It was a fun process, and I think the kids looked forward to it."

Kim Tae-ri Debuts Her First Variety Show 'After School Teacher Tae-ri'
Expressing affection for her co-stars, Kim Tae-ri said, "Hyun-wook was full of surprises. I thought I knew him well, but I discovered many new sides. He was the first teacher to join after the initial class."

About Kangnam, she remarked, "He seemed to be there for mental support. I relied on him a lot. Initially, he pretended not to understand Korean, but he was actually very perceptive. I'm not very perceptive, so I realized it later, but he was a great help." Regarding Code Kunst, she added, "He's entertaining just to watch. He's positive and bright, and his perspective on the kids was impressive. He joined last but made a significant impact."

Kim Tae-ri Debuts Her First Variety Show 'After School Teacher Tae-ri'
Choi Hyun-wook, when asked about his strategy to win over his seniors, replied, "Rather than a strategy, I focused on the kids as a teacher. I'm not sure if I was favored." He added, "I thought approaching my seniors was a junior's duty," but Kangnam and Code Kunst revealed, "He didn't approach us; we approached him."

Kangnam confessed, "I've done a lot of variety shows, but this was the first time I felt so challenged. Teaching kids was harder than I expected, and it took time to adjust to the environment."

Code Kunst shared, "This program was one of the best things I did last year. I might not have done other things well, but this was fulfilling. Usually, I try to add flair to my music, but this time, I focused on conveying the kids' pure emotions without embellishment."

Kim Tae-ri Debuts Her First Variety Show 'After School Teacher Tae-ri'
Director Park Ji-ye explained, "I was inspired by articles about the decline of rural areas and school closures. I wanted to create a meaningful program, and Kim Tae-ri came to mind as someone who puts her heart into everything. She agreed to join, making it possible."

Kim Tae-ri Debuts Her First Variety Show 'After School Teacher Tae-ri'
Director Hwang Seul-woo described 'After School Teacher Tae-ri' as "a healing show from afar, but a dopamine-filled surprise up close." He added, "We wanted to explore what variety shows can do in challenging times without imposing on viewers. We hope viewers enjoy the setting and that the school benefits from the program."

Kim Tae-ri highlighted the show's appeal, saying, "Look forward to the anxious glances, wavering hearts, and the kids' bright faces. We worked hard, so I hope you enjoy it." Choi Hyun-wook also encouraged viewers, "Look forward to our chemistry and the kids'. The memories we made are unforgettable, and I'm grateful for the connections we formed."

'After School Teacher Tae-ri' premieres on the 22nd at 7:40 PM.

Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr
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