'Hangout with Yoo' to Air 'Unpopular People's Club' Special Without Lee Yi-kyung Amidst Rumors

The popular MBC variety show 'Hangout with Yoo' is set to air its 'Unpopular People's Club' special without Lee Yi-kyung, who recently stepped down from the show following personal rumors.

Airing on November 8, the episode will feature a pre-meeting of the 'Unpopular People's Club,' a group of honorary members who fit the criteria of being less popular. The lineup includes actors Heo Sung-tae, Hyun Bong-sik, Han Sang-jin, Kim Kwang-kyu, Epik High's Tukutz, comedian Heo Kyung-hwan, broadcaster Jung Joon-ha, and mixed martial artist Choi Hong-man.

The members of the 'Unpopular People's Club' find solace in each other's lack of popularity, boosting their self-esteem and bonding over shared experiences. However, as conversations unfold, the bittersweet reality brings laughter. Yoo Jae-suk reveals a reality the members would rather avoid: a popularity ranking survey conducted across various age groups. Host Haha admits, "This is the last thing we want to acknowledge," while members worry, "What if I'm last?"

As the rankings from 1st to 9th are announced, the tension is palpable. When a seemingly popular member ranks lower than expected, the group is both surprised and secretly pleased to have outdone a competitor. Jung Joon-ha quips, "We must stay humble," while Tukutz jokes, "Everyone here is thinking, 'I hope everyone fails except me,'" eliciting laughter.

Yoo Jae-suk comforts the group, saying, "Don't be too shocked by the results." Joo Woo-jae adds, "In this 'Unpopular People's Club' special, being last is actually being first," which draws jeers. The member who lands in the dreaded last place is reportedly in denial, adding intrigue to who it might be.

'The Hangout with Yoo' airs on November 8 at 6:30 PM.

Reporter Se-yoon Jung, TenAsia yoon@tenasia.co.kr