Nah Yung-suk's New Adventure: 'Three Idiots in Kenya' with Lee Su-geun, Eun Ji-won, and Kyuhyun

Longtime collaborators Lee Su-geun, Eun Ji-won, and Kyuhyun reunite under the direction of Nah Yung-suk for a new adventure. While the concept isn't entirely new, the familiar chemistry promises a comfortable and entertaining experience.

On the morning of the 25th, a press conference for 'Three Idiots in Kenya' was held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Attendees included director Nah Yung-suk, producer Kim Ye-seul, and entertainers Lee Su-geun, Eun Ji-won, and singer-entertainer Kyuhyun. 'Three Idiots in Kenya' (abbreviated as 'Kenya Meals') follows the comedic trio on their chaotic African journey.

Na PD described 'Three Idiots in Kenya' as "a variety show true to its title. Previously, we did 'Three Meals a Day: Three Meals in Iceland' with Lee Su-geun and Eun Ji-won. Consider this a sequel. The timing worked out, and we captured an exciting story of the three members traveling to Kenya. Viewers can feel the essence of traveling in Kenya and enjoy the playful interactions among the three friends."

With this being their first collaboration with Netflix, there are notable changes in the Nah Yung-suk production. Kim PD noted, "The music is quite different. Music licensing costs can be higher than when we air on TV. To manage production costs, we ended up creating a lot of original songs."

Eun Ji-won shared, "We didn't know it would air on Netflix. We thought it was for the Fifteenya YouTube channel's 6 million subscriber celebration, but suddenly it was Netflix, which added pressure. I wondered if our impromptu humor would translate well globally."

He also joked, "Kyuhyun has changed a lot. He's no longer the gentle ballad singer. In Kenya, I had to be cautious of Kyuhyun, hippos, and cheetahs."

Lee Su-geun remarked, "I've worked with Nah Yung-suk PD for a long time, but working with Kim Ye-seul PD made me realize the need for generational change. Her passion is incredible."

He added, "Seeing an elephant up close was overwhelming. It was majestic. But then I turned around and saw these guys (Eun Ji-won and Kyuhyun), and it broke the moment. I even got lens implants afterward to better appreciate nature next time."

Previously, a teaser featuring Kyuhyun's kiss with a giraffe was released. Kyuhyun humorously commented, "Our group chat went wild. Eun Ji-won said, 'Kyuhyun's gone crazy.' It was so shocking I couldn't watch it again. The slow-motion made it look like I was really kissing the giraffe."

He continued, "The production team didn't ask if they could release it. I was shocked and couldn't watch it twice." Eun Ji-won added, "It was the best teaser of the year." Na PD clarified, "That teaser was Kim Ye-seul PD's work, not mine. I didn't expect it to be so slow. The camera quality is impressive."

Kim PD hinted, "We've included many new games with special judges, some of whom are from Kenya, and others you wouldn't expect. These new games are a highlight." Na PD added, "Nature played a big role. Watching the three interact with such a different environment is a unique experience."

Finally, Na PD expressed, "It's not a blockbuster, but a short-form series. If it gains support and viewership, maybe we can consider a cruise or Antarctic trip next. I hope many people watch it."

'Three Idiots in Kenya' will be available for two weeks starting on the 25th.

Ryu Ye-ji, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr