コ・ウリム、除隊後バラエティで新たなスターに

Ko Woo-rim has quickly become a rising star in the variety show scene just a month after his military discharge. He is currently preparing for Forestella's comeback in July and gearing up for a concert tour in Seoul, Busan, and Daegu.

The MBC variety show 'Radio Star' aired a special episode titled 'Mr. Voice' on the 18th, which topped its time slot with a 3.7% viewership rating in the Seoul metropolitan area, according to Nielsen Korea. It also ranked first in the 2049 demographic. The 'Best Moment' of the show was Ko Woo-rim's performance with his rare deep voice, which garnered a 5.2% rating.

Ko Woo-rim captivated the audience with his baritone voice and humor, sharing stories from his military service, his love story with his wife Kim Yuna, and his unique talents. He successfully completed his first variety show appearance since his discharge.

He revealed, "Our relationship began when my wife sent me a birthday DM first," sharing candidly about their secret four-year romance, his proposal at 24, and a romantic trip to Paris. He expressed his admiration for his wife, saying, "She planned all our trips, and I've never been disappointed."

Ko also shared anecdotes about Kim Yuna visiting him during his military service, causing a stir in the battalion. He humorously recounted how his juniors would salute whenever they saw her in commercials. He even showcased his elaborately decorated 'discharge outfit.'

His impersonation of comedian Jo Se-ho doing an impression of Choi Hong-man had the studio in stitches, earning praise from fellow hosts Kim Gook-jin, Kim Gura, Yoo Se-yoon, and Jang Do-yeon. Ko added, "Even my wife laughed," and remarked, "I gave up my looks for laughter, but now I just want to live well."

The MCs expressed their excitement, saying, "We have another variety show ace." Ko's sincerity, humor, and warmth resonated with viewers, leaving them eager for his future endeavors. He concluded the show with a heartfelt song, promising more to come.

Kim Tae-kyun, a 20-year veteran DJ of 'Cultwo Show' and an MBC comedian, shared his journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a voice of comfort through radio. He revealed how listening to Lee Moon-se's 'Starry Night' inspired his dream of becoming a DJ.

He recalled, "Being a radio DJ was a job only celebrities could do, so I took the comedian exam," sharing how he secretly prepared a three-minute comedy routine for the MBC audition. He also mentioned that famous voice actors for characters like SpongeBob and Pororo were his peers.

Kim's radio career, which began with the confession "I dreamed of being a DJ," found true value in listener stories. From the commercialization of the 'selfie stick' to a listener's life-changing story, his show provided more than just laughter.

He revealed that he once received a blank check offer from another network due to 'Cultwo Show's popularity, but he remained loyal to his show. His statement, "If I can make someone smile, that's enough," warmed viewers' hearts.

Cheon Rok-dam, formerly known as Lee Jung, shared how his life and music changed after adopting his new name. Embracing trot music, he said, "It finally feels like I'm wearing my own clothes," expressing pride in his family's musical legacy.

He mentioned his second wind in life, with new opportunities and a fan club, attributing his decision to join 'Mr. Trot 3' to his wife's encouragement. He also shared his battle with kidney cancer, discovered early thanks to his wife, and expressed gratitude for her support.

Cheon humorously recounted how his name led to invalid votes in text polls, with people calling him 'Cheongnokdang' and 'Cheongnokdam.' He concluded, "Now, my name, music, and life fit perfectly."

Lee Dae-hyung, known for his legendary 505 stolen bases, shared his career highlights and humorous commentary stories. He explained his base-stealing philosophy, "It's about instinct, not timing," impressing the MCs.

He shared how a knee injury ended his career at 505 stolen bases, but he found his calling as a commentator. His past popularity as the 'KBO Cha Eun-woo' was evident in his stories and visuals.

Lee's nickname 'Prophet' came from accurately predicting game strategies and weather-related errors. He demonstrated his 'bed hitting form,' a technique he developed to maximize his speed, amusing everyone.

He predicted this year's Korean Series, saying, "LG for the regular season, Hanwha for the Korean Series," sparking interest. The MCs praised his insights, and fans eagerly anticipate his future as a commentator.

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