MBC's 'Hangout with Yoo' Struggles to Define Its Identity Amid Repetitive Music Projects

MBC's variety show 'Hangout with Yoo' is facing criticism for failing to establish a clear identity even after seven years on air. The show has recently released a belated winter song and planned unpredictable spin-offs, leaving viewers disappointed.

On the January 11th episode, Yoo Jae-suk, Haha, Joo Woo-jae, Park Jin-joo, Lee Yi-kyung, and Mijoo participated in a winter song remake project, recruiting eight mates to join them. However, given that it's already mid-January, the 'winter song' feels out of season. The delay was unavoidable due to emergency measures and a national mourning period, but winter-themed music is typically released at the end of the year, making the timing less relevant.

'Hangout with Yoo' was once celebrated for its unique concepts. In 2020, the show gained popularity with 'SSAK3,' featuring Yoo Jae-suk, Lee Hyori, and Kwanghee. The revival of a forgotten co-ed group and the trio's chemistry captivated audiences, earning widespread acclaim for its musical quality and originality.

Following SSAK3, the show continued its success with 'Refund Sisters,' featuring Uhm Jung-hwa, Lee Hyori, Jessi, and Hwasa. The group's distinctive members received positive reactions across generations, highlighting the show's creative planning.

However, the show has since become repetitive with its music projects, leading to viewer fatigue. In 2021, 'MSG Wannabe' was formed but failed to generate the same buzz as SSAK3 or Refund Sisters. The attempt to evoke 2000s nostalgia with an eight-member male vocal group felt disjointed, and the ballad genre received mixed reactions.

With the subsequent release of 'WSG Wannabe,' the show has been criticized for losing its originality and resorting to self-replication. This shift from its initial focus on fresh ideas and humor has led viewers to question, "When did 'Hangout with Yoo' become a music program?"

The spin-off content 'What Are You Doing, Brother?' also raises concerns. This Lunar New Year special features Lee Yi-kyung traveling with Haha and Joo Woo-jae. However, critics argue that the show relies too heavily on camaraderie, lacking sufficient entertainment value for viewers.

A clear identity is crucial for any TV show, yet 'Hangout with Yoo' seems to be struggling in this regard. As it becomes a long-running variety show, it appears to be losing its direction rather than evolving. With ongoing criticisms of self-replication and the announcement of another music project alongside a concerning spin-off, questions about the show's future direction continue to grow.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr