Jang Na-ra Shines as the Perfect Host in Her First Variety Show 'House on Wheels: Hokkaido Edition'

Jang Na-ra (44) has made a remarkable debut as the 'perfect host' in her first fixed variety show, 'House on Wheels: Hokkaido Edition' on tvN.

The first episode of 'House on Wheels: Hokkaido Edition' (hereafter referred to as 'House on Wheels') aired on the 12th, featuring the return of regulars Sung Dong-il and Kim Hee-won, along with new host Jang Na-ra. The show depicted their first nomadic housewarming in a foreign land across the sea. The episode achieved impressive ratings, with a peak of 4.7% in the Seoul metropolitan area and an average of 3.5% nationwide, securing the top spot in its time slot on cable and general programming channels. The target demographic of tvN, ages 20-49, also recorded a peak rating of 2.2% both in the metropolitan area and nationwide.

As the first female host of the program, Jang Na-ra embarked on the journey with a mix of excitement and nervousness. Having never been a regular on a variety show, nor experienced camping or extended outdoor living, she candidly shared, "It's chaotic, but I think it will be fun. For me, 'House on Wheels' is like the adventures of Tom Sawyer." Her husband's reaction, four years into their marriage, also drew attention. Jang Na-ra humorously revealed, "As soon as he heard about the casting, he came home grinning ear to ear, saying I've made it big."

Jang Na-ra also showcased her unexpected fiery charm. She obtained a trailer license for 'House on Wheels' and shared a behind-the-scenes story, "I failed once and was so frustrated. I ate spicy hot pot to cheer myself up." Her co-hosts, Sung Dong-il and Kim Hee-won, joked, "When she's angry, she can do anything, so we should keep provoking her," sparking laughter.

The trio began their journey by docking at Shimonoseki Port in Japan with 'House on Wheels.' Amidst the familiar yet different local scenery, excitement and healing blossomed, and the siblings' clumsy antics provided plenty of laughs. Their first itinerary included a delightful meeting with Kim Hee-won's acquaintance, local resident Mr. Takamatsu. With the help of a translator, they managed to communicate, and Jang Na-ra surprised everyone with her unexpected Japanese language skills, prompting Sung Dong-il to exclaim, "Jang Na-ra always has a trick up her sleeve."

Sung Dong-il's proactive nature also shone through. Despite the language barrier, he gathered local restaurant recommendations from local officials and humorously claimed, "If you speak Korean with a Japanese accent, everyone understands," successfully ordering and paying with his unique 'Sung Dong-il language,' which brought laughter.

The 'House on Wheels' front yard was a beautiful campsite with a stunning sunset. The first housewarming guests, Um Tae-goo and Shin Eun-soo, brought energy to the scene. Playful Sung Dong-il intentionally asked the 'man of few words,' Um Tae-goo, to order drinks at a café, causing laughter, while Shin Eun-soo testified to Um Tae-goo's unexpected talkative side, surprising everyone.

Sung Dong-il introduced a new culinary item, a '1-meter-wide giant iron plate,' raising anticipation for the beef steak he prepared and the upcoming menu at 'Dong-il's Restaurant.'

New family member Jang Na-ra played a vital role as the show's fresh lubricant. From trailer driving to Japanese language skills, budget management, chemistry with the 'House on Wheels' family, and thoughtful care for guests, Jang Na-ra truly embodied the 'perfect host for House on Wheels.' Her candid and down-to-earth remarks, such as "As you know, I'm short," and "The weather is brutally hot," also provided plenty of laughs.

'House on Wheels' airs every Sunday at 7:40 PM.

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr