Lee Kyung-kyu Expresses Outrage Over Monkey Mating Joke on 'Radio Star'

Comedian Lee Kyung-kyu recently shared his anger over a controversial monkey mating joke.

On the October 9th episode of MBC's variety show 'Radio Star' (episode 885), Lee Kyung-kyu appeared as a guest alongside Shin Ki-ru, Lee Yong-jin, and Lee Sun-min.

During the show, Lee Kyung-kyu expressed his extreme displeasure with a joke made by his juniors, referencing Netflix's 'Comedy Royale'. The incident involved comedians Lee Jae-yul, Lee Sun-min, and Kwak Beom, who performed a monkey mating skit that left Lee visibly upset.

Lee Sun-min recalled the situation as "three times more severe" than it appeared, while Lee Yong-jin noted it was the first time he had seen Lee Kyung-kyu shout at such a volume. Lee Kyung-kyu criticized the act, calling it "such low-quality behavior" and even halted the recording. He emphasized, "Even comedy has a national dignity," and was further angered by Tak Jae-hoon's attempt to lighten the mood with a joke about the skit being more acceptable in Thailand or Indonesia.

Lee Kyung-kyu explained his frustration, stating, "Even in 'Animal Kingdom', mating scenes are censored. Yet, my juniors performed such an act in front of me. It's completely insane."

Lee Sun-min admitted, "At the time, I was so depressed that I considered retiring with PD Kwon Hae-bom." However, he added, "I think the monkey incident brought us into the spotlight. We were the only casualties of 'Comedy Royale'. When we were invited for Season 2, we decided we couldn't remain as 'the monkey guys' and returned. I believe we've overcome it."

Reporter Tae Yuna, Ten Asia youyou@tenasia.co.kr