Korean TV Icons Yoo Jae-suk and Kang Ho-dong Set to Launch New OTT Shows

Entertainment Guide by Tae Yuna
In the era of content overload, Tae Yuna from TenAsia offers a 'Variety Show Guide' for viewers unsure of what to watch. From hot topics in the entertainment world to key highlights, main characters, and behind-the-scenes stories, this guide aims to enhance your viewing experience.

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Korea's beloved 'National MCs' Yoo Jae-suk (53) and Kang Ho-dong (55) are set to debut new variety shows on OTT platforms in the first half of this year. Yoo Jae-suk will take on the role of a guesthouse owner, while Kang Ho-dong will become a bookstore manager. Fans are eagerly anticipating Yoo Jae-suk's first venture into camp management in his 34-year career and Kang Ho-dong's return to a one-on-one talk show format after 13 years.

According to Coupang Play's '2026 Content Lineup' released on the 19th, Kang Ho-dong will host 'Kang Ho-dong's Bookstore,' set to premiere in March. Transforming into 'Hocrates,' Kang will engage in sincere conversations with guests.

Kang Ho-dong was widely loved as the host of MBC's 'Knee Drop Guru,' which ended in 2013. Known for his straightforward style, booming voice, and lively discussions, he drew out stories from celebrity guests. Although he continued to host various talk shows, this marks his first return to a one-on-one format since 'Knee Drop Guru.'

Last year, Kang Ho-dong appeared as 'Knee Drop Doctor' on Hana Bank's YouTube channel, interviewing Son Heung-min and G-Dragon. As of the 20th, the Son Heung-min episode garnered 6.36 million views, while the G-Dragon episode reached 7.41 million views, showcasing his enduring popularity.

However, opinions are divided on Kang Ho-dong's bookstore concept. In 2013, he hosted the book talk show 'Moonlight Prince,' which was canceled after just a month and a half due to low ratings. Many questioned his suitability for a book-themed show at the time. Kang himself acknowledged the skepticism, stating at a press conference, "Many around me said it didn't suit me. But I thought maybe the mismatch could create a unique charm." Unfortunately, it didn't pan out as hoped.

This time, 'Kang Ho-dong's Bookstore' is expected to focus more on his energetic talk show style, using the bookstore as a mere backdrop. Actor Ha Jung-woo, who recently confirmed his relationship with actress Cha Jung-won, has reportedly completed filming as a guest. Viewers are curious if he discussed his marriage plans on the show.

Yoo Jae-suk will also embark on a new journey as a camp owner for the first time in his 34-year career. Netflix's 'Yoo Jae-suk Camp' is a guesthouse variety show where 'the guest is king, and Yoo Jae-suk is also king.' Yoo will welcome guests, with Lee Kwang-soo, Byun Woo-seok, and Ji Ye-eun joining as staff. Yoo has a long-standing rapport with Lee and Ji from SBS's 'Running Man,' but this is his first time working with Byun as a regular.

Stills released in January show a sign reading 'Yoo Jae-suk Camp' and the camp staff sharing a laugh with Yoo, piquing interest. With approximately 55,000 teams applying to stay, anticipation is high for the chemistry between Yoo and the general public.

As both Kang Ho-dong and Yoo Jae-suk bring new formats to the OTT market, viewers are keenly watching the competitive landscape of variety shows this season.

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