In the emotional finale of tvN's variety show 'Bo-gum Magical' aired on the 3rd, Park Bo-gum, Lee Sang-yi, and Kwak Dong-yeon shed tears during their last day at the rural barbershop. Park Bo-gum's determination to retake the national certification exam hinted at a potential Season 2 as a hairstylist.
The episode showcased the trio's heartfelt connections with the village residents, offering both laughter and tears. Despite the touching moments, the show recorded its lowest viewership rating at 2.5%.
Ahead of their farewell, Lee Sang-yi decorated the barbershop with framed photos of their customers, turning the walls into a gallery of memories. The trio also prepared personalized photo gifts with handwritten letters for each customer, adding warmth to their goodbyes.
The poignant farewell between the barbershop trio and their regulars was particularly moving. Park Bo-gum provided aftercare service to the first customer and neighbor who was also his first hair dye client, showcasing his growth into a confident barber.
Kwak Dong-yeon prepared a special meal for the children, including cream pasta and fish cakes, along with books and toys, creating a fairy-tale-like scene. The children's heartfelt letters in return brought tears to the trio's eyes.
The regular grandmother, who had a special bond with Kwak Dong-yeon, prepared a favorite dish for the trio, while another grandmother, who learned Korean and English from Lee Sang-yi, gifted them with homemade gochujang. These exchanges highlighted the warmth and affection shared between the trio and the villagers.
The mural completed with the villagers and the continued use of the barbershop as a community space after the trio's departure left a lasting impression of warmth and community spirit.
Park Bo-gum, Lee Sang-yi, and Kwak Dong-yeon built genuine connections with the villagers, creating a special bond that offered healing and subtle emotions.
Since the show's airing, the filming location in Muju, Jeonbuk, has become a popular tourist spot, attracting an average of 200 visitors on weekdays and over 500 on weekends, boosting local tourism and community engagement.
By Tae Yuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr