Choi Hyun-wook is actively participating as the youngest member and the drama club teacher 'Potato Teacher' in tvN's 'After School Teacher Taeri' (directed by Park Ji-ye and Hwang Seul-woo), which airs every Sunday. The reality show captures the challenge of the cast members opening an after-school drama club and teaching students at a small village elementary school with only 18 students.
In 'After School Teacher Taeri,' Choi adds vitality to the program with his unexpected clumsiness and sincere demeanor, rather than exaggerated reactions or calculated comments, garnering positive responses from viewers. His ability to naturally evoke laughter without trying too hard hints at his potential in variety shows.
An episode at a barbershop in Mungyeong highlighted this charm. During the hair washing process after dyeing, the hairdresser's hands became increasingly rough, even using a scrubber, but Choi accepted it with composure, eliciting laughter. His nonchalant question, "Is it always like this?" went viral as short-form content on online platforms, recording high views and becoming a hot topic.
While preparing a dance routine for the drama club kids, Choi humorously sang solemnly like a choir, unintentionally showcasing his charm and drawing laughter from Kim Tae-ri and Kangnam. When asked to sing more brightly, he enthusiastically sang but hit a wrong note, causing more laughter. His genuine reactions to unexpected moments, such as screaming upon discovering a bee, enhance the program's entertainment value and engagement.
Choi Hyun-wook is recognized as a talented actor, quickly building a repertoire with works like 'Twenty-Five Twenty-One' (2022), 'Weak Hero Class 1' (2022), 'D.P. Season 2' (2023), 'Shining Watermelon' (2023), 'High Cookie' (2023), 'That Guy is a Black Dragon' (2025), and 'Weak Hero Class 2' (2025). He is set to appear in upcoming series 'The Boy in the Last Row' on Netflix and 'Hypnosis' on Disney+.
Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr