Kim Jong-kook displayed his 'real man' loyalty and humor at the press conference for SBS Plus's new variety show 'Real Man's Travel.' He impressed everyone by keeping a promise made 18 years ago.
On the 21st, the press conference for 'Real Man's Travel' was broadcast online. Attendees included Choo Sung-hoon, Kim Jong-kook, Daesung, and PD Kim Jin-ho.
'Real Man's Travel' is a program that captures the adventures of men traveling by instinct. Directed by Kim Jin-ho, known for SBS's 'Law of the Jungle' and 'Jungle Food,' the show is highly anticipated due to the dynamic trio.
During the event, PD Kim Jin-ho introduced the program in a somewhat formal manner, saying, "We are starting the online showcase now. I hope this will garner more interest."
Kim Jong-kook humorously interjected, "Is this an apology broadcast?" while Daesung added, "I thought it was a civil defense broadcast." Kim Jong-kook continued, "Lighten up. I was shocked. I thought we were in trouble," eliciting laughter.
When asked how his experience with 'Law of the Jungle' influenced this show, PD Kim Jin-ho said, "Handling wild animals and unpredictable situations helped a lot." Kim Jong-kook jokingly responded, "Are we the wild animals?" to which PD Kim replied, "I felt a lot of fear. Choo Sung-hoon kept low-kicking the PD."
Regarding the casting of the three men, PD Kim expressed gratitude, saying, "Daesung is the best idol and entertainer. Kim Jong-kook kept a promise from 18 years ago when I was an assistant director on 'Family Outing.' Choo Sung-hoon joined us four times for 'Law of the Jungle.' Despite his busy schedule, he said, 'I have to go for Jin-ho.'"
Kim Jong-kook, who married a non-celebrity last September, shared his thoughts on his first overseas travel show post-marriage, jokingly wiping away tears and saying, "You know the answer. It's tough, but I went far for my family."
He added, "We want to work comfortably in Korea, but what can we do? We worked hard. My wife told me to be careful. She doesn't like overseas broadcasts, but I went to bring joy to many."
PD Kim revealed, "It was fixed last fall, and while scheduling, Jong-kook's manager kept asking when we were going because Jong-kook asked every day."
Choo Sung-hoon described the trip as "a journey where men don't give up," while Kim Jong-kook said, "A real man's trip doesn't involve planning. It's rough and spontaneous."
Daesung, the only planner, said, "I joined as a helper. It was fun, and although both brothers are real men, their styles differ."
Choo Sung-hoon was satisfied with the unplanned nature of the trip, saying, "It suited me well." Kim Jong-kook added, "We visited lesser-known places, experiencing local culture away from famous tourist spots."
Daesung noted, "Japan is familiar for travel, but we rarely encountered Koreans. It was unfamiliar, and you'll see complex emotions. Many restaurants had never been on TV."
PD Kim emphasized the unique combination of the three, noting their combined YouTube subscribers total nearly 7 million. He added, "The 2026 trend is T & A: Tour and Activity, respecting preferences. We visited places matching their tastes, many shown on TV for the first time."
When asked about the criteria for a 'real man,' Choo Sung-hoon said, "First is stamina, second is drinking ability." Kim Jong-kook stated, "We don't focus on the title. A real man is someone with a strong mindset and integrity." Daesung added, "On the show, a real man doesn't back down. I learned a lot from the brothers."
Regarding challenges during the spontaneous trip, Kim Jong-kook and Choo Sung-hoon said, "There were none." Choo added, "Everything was fun, the food was delicious, and there was no stress." Daesung shared, "I was promised separate rooms, but it wasn't kept. It wasn't a problem; it was nice to share. We were too tired to be uncomfortable."
On the nickname 'Kim Jong-kook who tames Choo Sung-hoon,' Kim Jong-kook said, "I often complain to him, which might be why. We aim for fun, and he responds well, creating good chemistry. Our playful bickering is entertaining."
Asked about their travel styles, Choo Sung-hoon said, "We both like exercise, so we matched well. We focus on protein, but I don't eat vegetables, while Jong-kook does. I drink, but Jong-kook doesn't, which is less fun." Kim Jong-kook noted, "I expected him to drink more, but he didn't. We matched well because we were satisfied."
When compared to 'Grandpas Over Flowers,' Daesung said, "I thought the brothers' personalities differed, but they matched well, so I didn't mediate much. They're not like Seo-jin; they take care of themselves."
Kim Jong-kook praised Daesung, saying, "He takes good care of us and is considerate. He's indispensable to our team." 'Real Man's Travel in Kyushu' is a four-part series. Daesung jokingly announced his departure, saying, "The next person should study hard." Kim Jong-kook and Choo Sung-hoon protested, "There's no one like you."
'Real Man's Travel in Kyushu' premieres on the 21st at 8:40 PM.
Tae Yuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr