Korean Entertainer Shin Dong-yup Reflects on Overcoming $6 Million Debt from Business Failure

Korean entertainer Shin Dong-yup recently opened up about his past struggles with a massive debt of approximately $6 million due to a failed business venture.

On October 20th, the YouTube channel 'Jjanhyung' released a video titled 'Real Monster: Unpredictable Moments with Two Unique Individuals.' The video featured popular mukbang YouTuber Tzuyang, who shared various stories.

Tzuyang revealed, "This is my first time as a regular member on a variety show," referring to the show 'Unpredictable.' She added, "It's not that I haven't received offers before. It's just that my personality isn't funny. I tend to make everything serious."

Shin Dong-yup comforted her by saying, "You don't need to be funny. Your presence is intriguing, and watching you eat brings happiness." Tzuyang, moved to tears, confessed, "Sometimes I cry alone." Shin Dong-yup shared, "That's a good thing. Crying alone can be refreshing and cleansing. I also had tough times when I made a wrong decision in business and ended up with a huge debt."

Reflecting on his past, Shin Dong-yup recalled, "After a broadcast, I would have 300 missed calls. I couldn't focus on my work, constantly questioning, 'What am I doing?'" He added, "People didn't know, but I wasn't truly happy while broadcasting. I rarely had time to eat peacefully."

After years of effort, he managed to pay off his debt. Looking at Tzuyang, he said, "As you grow older, you learn to be more considerate of others. When you eat happily, people notice. Everyone works hard and deals with stress, but that's life. People who enjoy your channel feel the same way."

Tzuyang, touched by his words, asked, "Are you trying to make me cry today?" Shin Dong-yup jokingly replied, "Don't wipe your tears with a tissue, just let them flow."

Reporter: Seyoon Jung, TenAsia yoon@tenasia.co.kr