'The Return of Superman' Tops Ratings with Heartfelt Stories and New Faces

KBS2's 'The Return of Superman' episode 606 achieved a nationwide viewership rating of 3.8%, securing the top spot among entertainment programs in its time slot. Initially, actor Lee Yi-kyung was set to join as the show's MC, but due to personal controversies, broadcaster Kim Jong-min stepped in as a replacement.

The episode, aired on the 28th, was themed 'Daddy Will Protect the Princess' and featured MC Kim Jong-min alongside Lalal. The broadcast introduced new 'Superman' KCM, his beautiful wife resembling Minji, and their second daughter, Seoyeon. The episode also showcased Shim Hyung-tak and his son Haru celebrating their first New Year together. According to Nielsen Korea, the episode recorded a 3.8% nationwide viewership rating, making it the top entertainment program in its time slot.

KCM shared the story of meeting his wife, who is nine years younger, and the circumstances that delayed the announcement of their marriage and child. Reflecting on the time when his wife was pregnant with their first child, he confessed, "I was in debt of billions at the time and couldn't let my family bear the pressure that was breaking me down." He expressed regret for not being able to confidently participate in events like sports days and graduations, saying, "I feel very sorry and regretful towards my family." KCM tearfully added, "I want to create memories that everyone else has."

KCM, with his rugged physique, showed a tender side by tying his daughter Seoyeon's hair with delicate care. He affectionately told her, "What will I do if you become even prettier?" He was also a sweet husband, preparing meals and skillfully peeling fruit for his wife, who is 34 weeks pregnant. Having missed the births of their first two daughters, Suyeon and Seoyeon, KCM vowed to be present for the birth of their third child, Bokdami (a nickname).

KCM, who has yet to hold a wedding ceremony, suggested, "How about having a small wedding?" His wife, moved, responded, "I feel like crying." KCM expressed gratitude, saying, "Even though we had no money or savings, my wife believed in me until we could achieve a normal family life. She never showed signs of hardship despite not revealing our situation for 13 years." Kim Jong-min and Lalal marveled, "What luck to have such a wife."

The episode also revealed Haru's first New Year at 359 days old. Dressed in traditional Korean attire, Haru experienced new things, learning to bow and playing yutnori for the first time. He also enjoyed traditional Japanese games from his mother's homeland and tasted his first bowl of dumpling soup, finishing it all.

As Haru turned a year older, his abilities grew. Kim Jong-min and Lalal were amazed as Haru held onto the wall and took steps, exclaiming, "Isn't Haru walking now?" Haru then managed to stand alone for about 10 seconds, prompting his father Shim Hyung-tak to proudly say, "He's standing on his own. I'm truly proud of him."

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