Tensions Rise on 'Hangout with Yoo' as Jung Jun-ha Criticizes Yoo Jae-suk Amid Controversies

Jung Jun-ha takes aim at Yoo Jae-suk on 'Hangout with Yoo'.

On the October 22nd episode of MBC's 'Hangout with Yoo', the results of the first popularity vote for the 'Insa Mo' (a group for unpopular people) were revealed.

Yoo Jae-suk mentioned, "After the 'Insa Mo' broadcast, many people responded positively," while Joo Woo-jae emphasized, "It became a hot topic."

Jung Jun-ha, who was at the center of last week's 'overcharging controversy', expressed discomfort, saying, "They created a story out of nothing." He was referring to Heo Sung-tae's accusation of overcharging, who was absent due to scheduling conflicts.

Jung Jun-ha, defending himself, stated, "I only recommended a menu to Sung-tae," and when criticized, he retorted, "I didn't overcharge anyone. Journalists are calling me a shameless businessman. It became a huge issue."

Kim Kwang-kyu questioned, "Did you eat the recommended menu together?" In response to the 'overcharging controversy', Jung Jun-ha expressed frustration, "If I eat, can't I charge for it? I can't run a business like this. It's absurd."

Jung Jun-ha, displeased with Joo Woo-jae's comments, remarked, "Joo Woo-jae isn't popular." However, Yoo Jae-suk countered, "He is popular. He has a fanbase," to which Jung Jun-ha replied, "Look at him defending his own. This is what's uncomfortable when you go on someone else's show."

The second recording of 'Insa Mo' saw a sparse turnout. Ha Ha expressed disappointment, "Is it because we're not popular? Does MBC not care?" Yoo Jae-suk reassured, "No, they know we're doing 'Insa Mo'," bringing laughter.

Meanwhile, the production team of 'Hangout with Yoo' apologized for the departure of actor Lee Yi-kyung and the 'noodle slurping controversy'. They explained, "In the situation where personal rumors were spreading through media, it was deemed difficult to continue with a show meant to bring laughter every week. The production team suggested his departure to the agency." They also admitted that the criticized noodle slurping scene was directed by them.

They added that previously stating Lee Yi-kyung's departure as 'voluntary' was "the least courtesy for Lee Yi-kyung." In last week's broadcast, Yoo Jae-suk mentioned, "Lee Yi-kyung is leaving due to scheduling issues."

Lee Yi-kyung faced difficulties last month due to personal rumors. His agency has filed a lawsuit against the rumor creators for defamation and spreading false information.

Reported by Kim Eun-jung, TenAsia eun@tenasia.co.kr