Choi Daniel and Choi Kang-hee Spark Romance Rumors on 'The Manager'

Actor Choi Daniel (41) is stirring up romance rumors with actress Choi Kang-hee, who is nine years his senior, on the show 'The Manager'.

On the October 14th episode of MBC's variety show 'The Manager', episode 385, Choi Daniel, who managed to work 330 days out of 365 last year, is seen enjoying a rare day off.

Waking up with a friendly demeanor and a scruffy beard, Choi Daniel heads straight to the kitchen. From squeezing lemon juice to indulging in supplements and formula, he shows his continued love for powders. Among his familiar morning routines, he introduces a new one: a chilling ice water face wash. This new routine, started with the goal of maintaining a clear mind as he turns 40, is met with screams and struggles, prompting his manager Kim Ji-hoon to humorously lament, "He always tries something new, but I wonder why," eliciting laughter.

Meanwhile, to rescue Choi Daniel's chaotic house, Choi Kang-hee steps in as the cleaning savior. Previously summoned by Choi Daniel using a wish coupon from Choi Kang-hee, the two showcased their quirky chemistry during a kimchi-making session on Ganghwa Island. Their unique dynamic led viewers and commentators to hope for a romance. Responding to Choi Daniel's call to use the 'Kang-hee Free Pass' he received, Choi Kang-hee arrives equipped with professional cleaning gear, drawing attention. Shocked by the state of a 14-year-old mattress and bathroom grime, she immediately begins cleaning.

However, was cleaning just an excuse? The two are seen wearing matching couple t-shirts, sparking suspicion. They don't stop at cleaning; they also go mattress shopping and pick out new bedding together. The increasingly affectionate atmosphere raises questions about whether they are just close friends, causing a stir in the studio.

'The Manager' airs at 11:10 PM.

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