Kim Hee-ae Set to Shine as Iconic 80s Music Festival Host on 'Hangout with Yoo'

Renowned actress Kim Hee-ae is making a grand return as an iconic figure of the 80s music festival scene.

MBC's variety show 'Hangout with Yoo' (directed by Kim Jin-yong, Lee Joo-won, Ahn Ji-sun, Lee Do-eun, Bang Sung-soo/writer No Min-sun) is generating buzz by revealing the identities of the preliminary winners of the '80s Seoul Music Festival'. Previously, 'Hangout with Yoo' saw the departure of Lee Mi-joo and Park Jin-joo in May.

In response, PD Yoo Jae-suk and writer Haha, who planned the '80s Seoul Music Festival', are meticulously selecting the MC, who will not only embody the spirit of the 80s but also connect with viewers in 2025.

The recently released photos show Yoo Jae-suk and Haha approaching Kim Hee-ae, a quintessential 80s teen star, to invite her as the MC. Known as the 'original pin-up goddess', Kim Hee-ae remains a top actress beloved by the public. Her previous experience as a prominent MC for events like the '89 MBC College Music Festival' and 'Saturday Night is Fun' makes her a highly anticipated choice for the '80s Seoul Music Festival'.

Yoo Jae-suk warmly greets Kim Hee-ae, saying, “You haven’t changed a bit,” and “You’re still the same.” Kim Hee-ae reminisces about her busy 80s, filled with acting, hosting, DJing, and even releasing music. Despite joking about her memory lapses, she corrects her recollections with Yoo Jae-suk and Haha, sparking curiosity. Upon seeing her past self, Kim Hee-ae humorously remarks, “I can’t watch this,” while Haha praises her graceful exclamations, eliciting laughter.

As Kim Hee-ae embarks on a nostalgic journey, Yoo Jae-suk and Haha extend an invitation for her to join as the MC of the '80s Seoul Music Festival'. Kim Hee-ae hesitates, saying, “I’m not sure if I can host well,” but Yoo Jae-suk and Haha present her with a symbolic ticket to the 80s, insisting, “Once you accept this, you’re on board.” Viewers are eager to see if Kim Hee-ae will take the ride back to the 80s.

Catch the full episode on Saturday, August 30th, at 6:30 PM on MBC's 'Hangout with Yoo'.

Reporter: Kim Se-a, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr