KBS2's 'Krazy Rich Korean' Set to Challenge 'My Ugly Duckling' and 'Around the World'

The new KBS2 variety show 'Krazy Rich Korean' is not just another patriotic program; it's a bold and unique venture. The show, featuring a 'crazy' production team and cast, is ready to challenge popular shows like 'My Ugly Duckling' and 'Around the World'.

On October 10, a press conference for 'Krazy Rich Korean' was held at the KBS building in Yeouido, Seoul. Attendees included hosts Jun Hyun-moo, Park Se-ri, Ji Ye-eun, and director Lee Chang-soo. Notably absent was Kwak Tube.

'Krazy Rich Korean' is a human reality show that highlights Koreans who have achieved world-class success in their respective fields. The show is hosted by Jun Hyun-moo, Park Se-ri, Ji Ye-eun, and Kwak Tube, with Lee Chang-soo, known for hits like 'Boss in the Mirror' and 'The Seasons', directing.

Jun Hyun-moo expressed his thoughts on reuniting with director Lee Chang-soo, saying, "After doing the press conference together, I wondered if it was a good idea. I recognized Lee's talent when we first worked on 'Boss in the Mirror'. I believe he is the director to create killer content at KBS, which is why I joined."

He continued, "Starting later than 'Around the World' and 'My Ugly Duckling' is like being thrown into the fire. Despite the tough competition, I trust Lee Chang-soo because the content is unique. It's different from 'My Ugly Duckling' and 'Around the World', so I think viewers looking for fresh content will tune in. I don't know what the ratings will be for the first episode, but I expect an upward trend. I have a sense for ratings, so I don't think it will be a hit from the start, but it will steadily rise. Even Kian84 mentioned it, and seeing him being cautious makes me think it will do well."

Jun Hyun-moo is currently hosting 13 fixed programs this year, including 'Krazy Rich Korean'. He reflected, "I declared my freedom because I was crazy about broadcasting, but often I find myself complacent. This program reminds me of my early days. I was at my craziest when I was at KBS doing 'Lucifer'. I realized I was really crazy back then, and this program makes me reflect on why I've become complacent."

Park Se-ri shared her thoughts, "It's been a while since I've been an MC on a KBS program. I was confused during filming because I was tricked by director Lee Chang-soo. It was the most exhausting experience, and I tried things I hadn't done before, so I think it should turn out better than expected. The director seems special. I always have a bit of anxiety when working on it."

Jun Hyun-moo explained, "The reason Park Se-ri said she was tricked is that the original program title was 'World Class K', intended to highlight great Koreans. We did the first recording at dawn, sitting on a damp carpet for six hours, which was tough on our thighs. Park Se-ri struggled a lot because of it."

Jun Hyun-moo added, "Director Lee Chang-soo is truly eccentric. Having worked with him multiple times, I can say he's quite unique. The set was designed this way, and we proceeded with the recording. Initially, I thought it might be a patriotic program since it's about Koreans in the world, but I believe it will provide a fresh shock and possibly change the landscape of Sunday evenings."

Director Lee Chang-soo, listening to this, said, "I have a lot of concerns because Jun Hyun-moo said he might quit." Jun Hyun-moo responded, "Doesn't he seem crazy? Why is he like that? I'm trying to do well with Park Se-ri. I really considered quitting because my thighs hurt so much."

Park Se-ri expressed her dissatisfaction, "Hannah Jang was on her first variety show, and we brought her from afar, so I felt it was disrespectful. The welfare was really poor, and I'm still in pain. I need to think about forgiving."

Kwak Tube's absence from the event raised curiosity. Director Lee Chang-soo explained, "'Boss in the Mirror' was created as a filler for '2 Days & 1 Night'. After 'Yoo Hee-yeol's Sketchbook' ended, I was asked to create 'The Seasons'."

He continued, "But KBS put me in the time slot against 'My Ugly Duckling' and 'Around the World'. I was really upset and stressed, gaining 20kg. We couldn't have Kwak Tube due to payment issues, but after the first recording, the MCs did well, and I'm grateful. I'm confident we can compete with 'My Ugly Duckling' and 'Around the World'."

Finally, director Lee Chang-soo expressed his desire to invite guests like "CEO Min Hee-jin, soccer player Son Heung-min, and director Bong Joon-ho. When I go abroad, I ask the Korean community or churches if there's anyone worth introducing. I prefer finding people with history rather than those already featured in the media."

Jun Hyun-moo added, "The 'Krazy Rich Korean' I know is Kian84. I've never seen him as a success point, but among my friends, he's achieved dramatic success and is genuine. I hope he joins us after 'Around the World'. I want to see him not just as a friend but as a success model. Although we're close, I want to study him." He jokingly added, "Come over after it's done," eliciting laughter.

Meanwhile, 'Krazy Rich Korean' is set to premiere on October 15 at 9:20 PM on KBS 2TV.

Reported by Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr