‘Earth Demon Fire 2’, the fruit of trial and error… Impressions of PD Kim Tae-ho and Kim Hoon-beom

"'Earth Mabul' is a program that started at the same time as TEO Theo was created. It is even more attached and meaningful as it contains the growth of the PDs. As it is a program that greatly helped strengthen TEO's production capabilities, 'Earth Mabul' is a series I hope that the most important thing in growing as a producer is ‘decisions’, which determine the success or failure of content. “It is a program that I am grateful for that has helped my junior PDs grow by making the decisions that have come together to create ‘Earth, Demons and Fire.’”

Producers Kim Tae-ho and Kim Hoon-beom met with Ten Asia at the ENA headquarters located in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul on the 5th and told various stories about 'Earth Mabul World Travel 2' (hereinafter 'Earth Mabul 2'). 'Earth Mabul 2' is a travel entertainment program that depicts the unpredictable adventure of three travel creators, Pani Bottle, Wonji, and Kwak Tub, leaving their fate in the hands of the dice. A new system called travel partner was introduced and received favorable reviews from viewers. Ahead of the final episode of 'Earth Demon Fire 2' being broadcast on the 8th, the producers revealed their thoughts so far.

Producer Kim Tae-ho expressed his gratitude, saying, "I felt the need to learn the work methods of the three creators, because we live in an era where efficiency is important. ENA saw our potential and created an opportunity for us." He said, "I heard that creators who experienced Season 1 sometimes felt lonely and burdened while traveling alone. I thought it would be better 'together'. I was worried because some people like existing independent content, but I wanted to do something experimental and challenging. “There were a lot of concerns, but it was a good decision,” he said, proud of the changes in Season 2.

Producer Kim Hoon-beom also sympathized, saying, "The three of them have already reached the peak of their journey. By being with someone, they exchanged vitality and created a greater emotion. An episode that could only be portrayed 'together' was created." .

He said, "As we did Season 1 together, we understood each other's needs and tendencies very well. There is a big difference between broadcasting and YouTube, but we communicated smoothly without saying anything. The characteristics of the two channels became more clear. Therefore, we decided to merge YouTube and broadcasting. “There were a lot of responses from viewers saying they should take care of everything,” he said with satisfaction. Producer Kim Tae-ho recommended, "The points of broadcasting and YouTube are different. YouTube is small talk focused on the inside, while broadcasting is vast and intense visuals. It is much better when you see the two together."

“It is clear that the creators enjoy traveling, but they also felt a lot of pressure to provide quality content. The production team worked hard to relieve their stress and make Season 2 different. “We did a lot of research so that creators can take a breather and viewers can also enjoy the content in abundance.”

The two showed extraordinary responsibility and passion for the program. We did our best to produce quality content while considering creators and viewers. Producer Kim Tae-ho said, "Usually the 2nd to 3rd round is a time when you are physically and mentally exhausted. We all gathered together and talked openly and tried to rest. If we wanted to change partners, we could use the opportunity by playing a game. We did a lot of preparation in this way. “But no one felt sorry for their partner, but I think this is a more humane and empathetic result.”

Producer Kim Hoon-beom also recalled, "I brought a variety of game props, such as a lie detector and a sketchbook. I couldn't use anything, but I really liked the warm atmosphere."

Producer Kim Tae-ho said, "I hope you will refrain from evaluating and judging a single program. As with 'Infinite Challenge,' we have gone through many trials and errors to find the points that viewers like and proceed with it. As the season continues, the concept of attracting viewers to our content becomes more effective." “No, I think it’s the content that reaches out to the viewers,” he said.

He said, "Even if you're scared at first, it's important to be bold and throw it to the public. It seems like you get faster and better results when you let go of the desire to hit and move without expectations. 'Earth Mabul' is also a small idea to have fun with travel YouTubers. “What started as a show has come to this point, so I hope to paint a different picture in Season 3,” he said.

Producer Kim Tae-ho said, "In the beginning, we said that we wanted to join hands with ENA and have our own unique travel. I am proud that we have kept that promise. We hoped to create content that stimulates the public's interest and meets expectations while having a useful trip." He said. Producer Kim Hoon-beom said, "During Season 1, we were sold on a certain audience. However, while doing 'Earth Demon Fire 2', I heard that everyone from children to the elderly enjoyed watching it. I'm thankful that the viewership ratings were good. If we don't settle for reality and do Season 3, “I will create more new things,” he said, expressing his ambition.

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