Kian84 Announces New Era for 'I Live Alone' Amid Cast Changes

Kian84, a prominent figure on the popular South Korean reality show 'I Live Alone,' has declared a generational shift, urging the new cast members to take the reins. This announcement comes after the departure of long-time cast members Park Na-rae and SHINee's Key due to various controversies.

The episode aired on the 30th of last month featured Kian84 and DAY6's Dowoon embarking on a friendship hike at Cheonggye Mountain, while actor Seo Beom-jun was seen on a bakery tour in Seochon, eventually meeting his role model, actor Yoo Ji-tae.

During the opening segment, Jeon Hyun-moo humorously remarked to Dowoon and Park Ji-hyun, "It feels like a barracks here," prompting laughter. Kian84, assuming the role of the leader, joked, "Sergeant Jeon Hyun-moo has lost all his teeth. If you have any complaints, talk to me first." He then encouraged Dowoon and Park Ji-hyun, stating, "Now it's your turn to lead 'I Live Alone.' You have a lot to do."

Previously, at the Rainbow Grand Bazaar, Kian84 and Dowoon discovered their shared interests, leading to a New Year's sunrise hike at Cheonggye Mountain. Dowoon, who had shyly asked Kian84 out on this "date," brought laughter with his bashful demeanor. He took care of Kian84 by packing survival items for both of them, covering him with a foil blanket to keep warm while waiting for the sunrise, and showing his sweet side by constantly looking after his "hyung."

To reward Dowoon for enduring the cold, Kian84 introduced him to a traditional Korean charcoal sauna. Experiencing it for the first time, Dowoon's adorable attempts to mimic Kian84's enjoyment of the heat brought smiles. Observing the attention Kian84 received from the older women there, Dowoon exclaimed, "That's our hyung," in admiration. Dowoon later expressed his satisfaction, saying, "Every moment with Kian84 hyung was enjoyable."

Meanwhile, Seo Beom-jun showcased his enduring love for bread during his bakery tour in Seochon. Having explored bakeries nationwide, from Seoul to Daejeon, Busan, Daegu, and Gangneung, Seo began his day at 8 AM with a Dubai croissant and embarked on a full-fledged bakery tour. He filled his hands with an assortment of breads, including sweet and savory sandwiches, classic breads, Hong Kong-style breads, and salted breads.

The recipient of Seo Beom-jun's 'gourmet bread gift set' was none other than actor Yoo Ji-tae. Seo, who had a special connection with Yoo during his aspiring actor days, tearfully recalled, "It's been exactly 10 years since I first met you in 2016." Yoo Ji-tae warmly responded, "We said we'd meet in 10 years, and here we are. It's quite miraculous."

Yoo Ji-tae congratulated Seo Beom-jun on his SBS Drama Awards win for Best Supporting Actor, praising him, "It's truly amazing. The world belongs to those who dare to challenge." Seo, moved by his words, shed tears. He presented Yoo with a pen, a heartfelt letter, and the bread gift, to which Yoo responded, "This is bread from a successful junior," expressing his gratitude.

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