Tensions Rise as Lee Yi-kyung and Jung Jun-ha Reflect on Their Exits from 'Hangout with Yoo'

Lee Yi-kyung recently took to social media to express his disappointment towards MBC's 'Hangout with Yoo?' following his departure from the show. This has reignited interest in Jung Jun-ha's past comments about his own exit from the program.

On November 21, Lee Yi-kyung addressed the public for the first time since rumors about his personal life surfaced. He explained that although the rumor was quickly debunked, it led to a suggestion from the show's producers that he step down, which he ultimately did. This implies that the decision was more influenced by the production team than his own choice.

While Lee Yi-kyung expressed gratitude towards shows like ENA·SBS Plus's 'I'm SOLO', T-Cast·E Channel's 'Brave Detectives'(용감한 형사들), and tvN's 'Handsome Guys' for their support, he notably omitted 'Hangout with Yoo?' and KBS 2TV's 'The Return of Superman' from his list.

As Lee Yi-kyung's post gained traction, Jung Jun-ha's experience with 'Hangout with Yoo?' was brought back into the spotlight. Jung Jun-ha left the show in June 2023 after the 189th episode, alongside Shin Bong-sun.

Appearing on JTBC's 'Knowing Bros', Jung Jun-ha warned others to be cautious, sharing that a casual conversation with a producer led to his departure, suggesting it was not entirely voluntary.

Jung Jun-ha also opened up about his feelings on the YouTube channel 'ㄴ신봉선ㄱ'. When Shin Bong-sun mentioned she drank heavily after hearing about his exit, Jung Jun-ha admitted it was a difficult time for him as well.

When asked if he cried, Jung Jun-ha confessed he was devastated, recalling how he couldn't stay home on recording days and tried to keep himself busy.

Shin Bong-sun, who also left the show, shared her feelings on the YouTube channel 'Misun Impossible'(미선 임파서블). She agreed with Park Mi-sun's sentiment that it's unfortunate when not everyone leaves a show together, acknowledging there were definitely hard feelings.

In May, Park Jin-joo and Lee Mi-joo also exited the show, sparking viewer speculation about the removal of female members. Mijoo later expressed mixed feelings about her departure, suggesting it wasn't entirely her decision.

Lee So-jung, TENASIA Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr