Lee Yi-kyung Addresses 'Ugly Noodle Slurping' Controversy on 'Hangout with Yoo'

Lee Yi-kyung has spoken out about the recent controversy surrounding his noodle-eating habits.

On the October 14th episode of MBC's variety show 'Hangout with Yoo,' Yoo Jae-suk brought up the hygiene controversy involving Lee Yi-kyung.

During the 'Happiness with Ten Thousand Won' challenge, Yoo Jae-suk and Lee Yi-kyung ended up losing. Although they initially won the challenge, Lee Yi-kyung misplaced a pouch containing ten thousand won, leading to their defeat.

Later, when the 'Hangout with Yoo' members gathered again, Yoo Jae-suk noticed Lee Yi-kyung looking particularly downcast and commented, "It's because of how Yi-kyung eats." Recently, Lee Yi-kyung demonstrated what he called 'ugly noodle slurping' in front of actors Shim Eun-kyung and Kim Seok-hoon, which sparked the controversy.

When Haha asked, "Are we not going to see a mukbang today?" Lee Yi-kyung, surprised, replied, "I'm not eating anymore." Yoo Jae-suk explained, "Yi-kyung isn't that kind of person. He's just trying to be funny on the show and ended up getting criticized for it."

Yoo Jae-suk further defended him by saying, "He loves variety shows and tends to go overboard, but once he finds his balance, he'll shine." Joo Woo-jae humorously asked the production team, "We're eating today, right? No noodles, I hope?" eliciting laughter from everyone.

Reported by Tae Yuna, TenAsia youyou@tenasia.co.kr