Kim Jung-tae Faces Tension as Son Ji-hoo Expresses Desire to Move to the U.S.

Kim Jung-tae, known for his deep affection for his son, faces a dilemma as his eldest son, Ji-hoo, who is suspected to have Asperger's syndrome, declares his wish to move to the United States.

On the upcoming episode of TV CHOSUN's variety show 'Dad and Me Season 3', airing on the 25th, Kim Jung-tae and his son Ji-hoo, famous for his nickname 'Yakkoong', are seen in a tense situation. To celebrate Ji-hoo's 16th birthday, Kim Jung-tae prepared a special birthday meal for him. The family enjoyed a happy time together with a surprise birthday party.

However, when Ji-hoo revealed his birthday wish, Kim Jung-tae's expression turned somber. Ji-hoo's wish was to live in the United States. Ji-hoo, who finds English more comfortable than Korean, dreams of 'independence in America'. With interests in physics, coding, and animation production, Ji-hoo has unique hobbies that set him apart from typical teenagers, making it difficult for him to make friends. He believes there are many people like him in the U.S. and expressed his desire to live there, saying, "It feels better to think that people with the same interests are in the same country." Ji-hoo's dream of living in America is so strong that he once seriously asked his father, "Why wasn't I born an American?"

Upon hearing Ji-hoo's wish, Kim Jung-tae worriedly asked, "Can you manage without mom and dad?" To which Ji-hoo replied, "I want to live in America, not because I don't want to see you." Despite this, Kim Jung-tae's concerns grew, leading to a conflict as he interrupted Ji-hoo, saying, "You have to be careful. To pay rent, you'll have to work a lot. You need to grow stronger." Unable to express himself due to his father's constant nagging, Ji-hoo eventually shouted, "Stop!" to halt his father.

Kim Jung-tae retorted, "When dad gives advice, you should listen," but Ji-hoo expressed his frustration, saying, "I don't want to talk. To anyone." Ji-hoo revealed his inner thoughts, questioning, "Why do you keep saying things I already know?" Watching the VCR, Jeon Hyun-moo sighed, "This is a really tough issue."

The escalating conversation between Kim Jung-tae and his son Ji-hoo, sparked by the 16-year-old's declaration to move to the U.S., will be revealed on 'Dad and Me Season 3', airing at 10 PM.

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