Lee Sung-min Shines as a Rising Star in Variety Shows with 'Poonghyang High 2'

≪Tae Yuna's Oh Yeah≫
In the era of content overload, Tae Yuna from TenAsia becomes your 'variety show guide,' unraveling the hottest issues, key points, main characters, and behind-the-scenes stories to enhance your viewing experience.

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Actor Lee Sung-min (57) is gaining attention as a 'newcomer in his 50s' in the variety show scene. Unlike the charismatic character of Chairman Jin Yang-cheol in JTBC's 'Reborn Rich,' Lee's warm and human side shines in variety shows. Known for his straightforward approach, earning him the nickname 'Hornet Hyung,' Lee Sung-min is already a strong contender for this year's Pingkeigo Awards.

The web variety show 'Poonghyang High,' available on the YouTube channel 'DdeunDdeun,' began as an impromptu overseas travel project when actor Hwang Jung-min mispronounced 'Pingkeigo' as 'Poonghyang High.' The show embraces spontaneity, with no apps, reservations, or plans, allowing the cast to enjoy travel through chance encounters. Season 1, released in 2024, amassed 44 million views and won the Baeksang Arts Award for Best Variety Show.

In Season 2, Hwang Jung-min is replaced by Lee Sung-min, who joins Yoo Jae-suk, Ji Seok-jin, and Yang Se-chan on a trip to Austria. Lee Sung-min stands out in 'Poonghyang High 2,' despite claiming to be a novice traveler with limited English skills. He takes the lead, dubbing himself 'Map Sung-min,' and communicates confidently despite language barriers.

Lee's thoughtfulness is also highlighted. He shares his in-flight steak with the crew enjoying bibimbap and consistently checks on their well-being throughout the trip. Viewers have responded warmly, saying, "Lee Sung-min is so warm-hearted," "I thought he was introverted, but his proactive nature is refreshing," "He seems boyish and cute," and "He reminds me of an excited father on his first overseas trip."

The show's immediate success is evident. As of the 19th, the first episode has 9.66 million views, the second 8.13 million, and the third 6.55 million on YouTube. The fourth episode surpassed 4.85 million views within five days of release. Season 2 is also airing on ENA, with ratings climbing from 1.6% for the first episode to 2.2% for the fourth. Considering ENA's average national rating was 0.4% in the three months prior, these numbers are impressive.

Hwang Jung-min won the Grand Prize at the '2nd Pingkeigo Awards' in 2024 through 'Poonghyang High.' Unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts, he expressed gratitude via video, saying, "Thanks to your votes, I received the Grand Prize. I'm truly grateful and had a wonderful trip."

The Pingkeigo Awards are determined entirely by subscriber votes. Hwang Jung-min received an overwhelming 95,621 votes out of 180,000, making Lee Sung-min a strong contender for this year's award.

Following 'Poonghyang High 2,' Lee Sung-min recently appeared on SBS's 'My Little Old Boy,' traveling to Kazakhstan with friends Bae Jung-nam, Kim Jong-soo, and Kim Sung-kyun. The camaraderie brought a playful dynamic, contrasting with 'Poonghyang High 2,' and the show achieved ratings over 9%. Lee Sung-min's diverse roles across projects and variety shows continue to captivate audiences, leaving fans eager for his future endeavors.

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr