Choi Hyun-wook Shines in First Variety Show 'After School Teacher Taeri'
Choi Hyun-wook, who recently signed with Gold Medalist, the agency known for representing Kim Soo-hyun, has embarked on his first fixed variety show challenge with 'After School Teacher Taeri,' showcasing a new side of his charm.

On the premiere episode aired on the 22nd, Choi Hyun-wook appeared as the youngest cast member and played the role of 'Potato Teacher' in the theater club on tvN's 'After School Teacher Taeri.'

'After School Teacher Taeri' is a new reality variety show that follows the journey of opening an after-school theater class in a small village elementary school with only 18 students. The cast members take on the role of teachers, guiding the children through the process.

In the episode, Choi Hyun-wook made his first appearance as a supportive figure to the nervous Kim Tae-ri after her initial class. Joining as an assistant teacher from the second class, he greeted the children shyly but quickly lifted the atmosphere with lively warm-up exercises to upbeat music. His human charm was further highlighted when he was playfully criticized by a child for not speaking loudly enough, causing him to momentarily lose confidence, drawing laughter from the audience.

Choi Hyun-wook Shines in First Variety Show 'After School Teacher Taeri'
Choi Hyun-wook candidly admitted, "I thought I wouldn't be nervous, but being here is quite nerve-wracking," and resolved to work harder, hinting at his growth journey as 'Potato Teacher.' Despite being timid and prone to mistakes, his warm-hearted nature shone through as he expressed his wish for the children to approach him comfortably, asking them to call him 'Potato Teacher' due to his childhood nickname, fostering a sense of closeness.

Adding humor, he playfully retorted to Kim Tae-ri's scolding with "I have a lot to say too," only to quickly backtrack with "I'm scared, I want to go home," enhancing the comedic element. The episode ended with Kim Tae-ri telling Choi Hyun-wook, "I'm not 100% satisfied with any part you've done," hinting at a potential rift and increasing anticipation for future developments.

Since his debut in 2019, Choi Hyun-wook has taken on his first fixed variety show, revealing a completely different, approachable charm compared to his intense roles in previous works, garnering positive responses from viewers.

Through his agency, Gold Medalist, Choi Hyun-wook shared, "The pressure of my first variety show challenge was significant, but thanks to my seniors, I was able to see it through to the end. It was a meaningful time," and expressed gratitude for the healing moments provided by the children, urging warm interest and viewership for the program.

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