Kwak Dong-yeon Joins Park Bo-gum in New Variety Show 'Bo-gum Magical'

'You Know What?' Reporter Lee So-jung from TenAsia captures intriguing issues in the broadcasting world to stimulate the public's dopamine.

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Actor Kwak Dong-yeon teams up with Park Bo-gum in the new tvN variety show 'Bo-gum Magical'. After leaving a mark with Cha Eun-woo and Yoo Seung-ho in previous shows, Kwak aims for a fresh start.

Kwak will appear in 'Bo-gum Magical', which premieres at 8:40 PM on the 30th. The show features Park Bo-gum, who holds a barber's license, running a real barbershop in a rural village. Park leads the 'hair' department, Lee Sang-yi handles 'nail care and customer service', and Kwak takes charge of 'cooking', completing the team dynamic.

As the youngest cast member, Kwak has maintained a relationship with Park Bo-gum since their collaboration in the 2016 KBS2 drama 'Love in the Moonlight'. Their reunion as variety show partners sparks interest in their potential synergy.

Kwak Dong-yeon, who debuted at a young age, gained attention in 2014 on 'I Live Alone'. His portrayal of a self-reliant celebrity living in a semi-basement apartment left a lasting impression of diligence and resilience.

Kwak has consistently built a positive image through his steady work ethic. His background as a former trainee at FNC Entertainment, where he prepared for a band debut, underscores his dedication. Even after transitioning to acting, he has remained steadfast in his career path.

Despite appearing in various shows, Kwak's previous variety show 'Finnish Boarding House', which aired in December 2024, received lukewarm responses. Although it generated buzz with a star-studded cast, the show struggled to engage viewers, with ratings dropping from 3.3% to 1.7%.

However, Kwak's presence was noted, with viewers commenting, "Only Kwak Dong-yeon is working." His efforts in cooking and organizing were praised, though the show lacked comedic appeal.

Two months after the show's end, Kwak joined JTBC's 'Battle! Pengbong Pengbong' in April. Despite the show's concept of running a restaurant abroad and featuring Yoo Seung-ho's first variety appearance, it failed to capture interest, with ratings falling to 0%.

Kwak's collaboration with Park Bo-gum in 'Bo-gum Magical' marks a new challenge. Being cast in anticipated shows for three consecutive years reflects industry trust. In this program, he takes on the clear role of 'cooking', responsible for the cast's meals.

At the press conference on the 29th, Park Bo-gum and Lee Sang-yi expressed gratitude to Kwak, highlighting his crucial role in the show. Beyond a supporting role, he is described as a pillar of the program's flow.

Since debuting in the 2012 KBS2 drama 'My Husband Got a Family', Kwak has built a presence with consistency and sincerity. His repeated opportunities to stand alongside popular actors in variety shows indicate his positive reputation among producers. However, achieving commercial success remains a challenge.

'Bo-gum Magical' presents another opportunity and test for Kwak. With his strengths in resilience, teamwork, and chemistry, the show demands more than just hard work. The anticipation for his dynamic with Park Bo-gum grows as the premiere approaches.

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