Coupang Play's 'Shooting Star' Returns with New Lineup Featuring Patrice Evra and National Team Veterans

Coupang Play's 'Shooting Star' is back with an exciting new lineup. The show, known for featuring Park Ji-sung's close friend Patrice Evra, now includes former national team players Koo Ja-cheol and Lee Keun-ho, promising an upgraded experience.

On the 28th, a production presentation for Season 2 of Coupang Play's variety show 'Shooting Star' was held at The Link Seoul in Guro-gu, Seoul. Attendees included Choi Yong-soo, Seol Ki-hyeon, Koo Ja-cheol, Lee Keun-ho, and PD Jo Hyo-jin.

'Shooting Star' Season 2 is a growth-oriented soccer variety show where legendary retired players challenge themselves in the K3 League, rediscovering the joy of playing real soccer.

PD Jo Hyo-jin explained the differences from Season 1, stating, "The biggest change is the opponents. In Season 1, things went well if we worked hard, but in K3, the competition is definitely tougher. The show explores the challenges of facing stronger opponents as the players age another year." He added, "Because the opponents are stronger, viewers can expect to see more authenticity and passion. It's more difficult than expected, and while the players struggle initially, they eventually show different sides. I hope viewers enjoy watching the retired players grow."

Returning as head coach for Season 2, Choi Yong-soo commented on the changed environment, "I didn't expect such a difference. K3 is indeed formidable, and we gave it our all. The players' stamina, game management, and teamwork were challenging. We spent time on communication and tactical discussions with Coach Seol Ki-hyeon, which was not easy. I think we put in more energy and attention than in Season 1."

The new season sees the addition of former national team players Koo Ja-cheol and Lee Keun-ho, along with the anticipated appearance of Premier League star Patrice Evra, raising expectations.

Koo Ja-cheol confessed, "It's embarrassing, but I weighed 85kg at the time of my retirement, and before joining 'Shooting Star,' I was 94kg. By the end of filming, I was down to 86kg." He added humorously, "I officially retired only six months ago, but I got tired so quickly. I couldn't keep up with the K3 players running beside me."

Lee Keun-ho shared, "I thought I would perform brilliantly, but that was a misconception. Seeing the results, I realized my friends had prepared diligently. I was filled with arrogance, thinking I could do it. Sports taught me once again that results come from preparation, and I have a lot to reflect on."

Regarding the addition of Premier League star Patrice Evra, known as Park Ji-sung's close friend, Coach Choi Yong-soo remarked, "I was surprised to see him give 120% in training despite arriving early in the morning and being tired. His communication with the players, asking and answering questions, was impressive. His ball control always aimed at the opponent, and his performance was satisfying. He has a cheerful personality and attended every team gathering. I wish we had more players like him on our team."

'Shooting Star' Season 2 premieres on Coupang Play on the 29th at 8 PM.

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