MBC's 'I Live Alone' Hits Record Low Ratings Amid Cast Changes

MBC's popular variety show 'I Live Alone' has hit another record low in ratings just three weeks after the departure of key cast members Park Na-rae and Key. The show's 640th episode recorded a 4.4% viewership, following a 4.6% rating for episode 637. This marks the lowest ratings since the 422nd episode aired in November 2021, which had a 4.2% rating.

The episode aired on the 27th featured actor Bae In-hyuk, who has been living alone for 13 years, showcasing his 'In-hyuk House' and Jeon Hyun-moo's attempt at 'Cheonhyu-terior' (a combination of Park Cheon-hyu and interior design).

In a special segment titled 'Introducing Rainbow Friends,' Bae In-hyuk, who became friends with Koo Seong-hwan while working on a project together, made an appearance. His meticulously organized kitchen, dressing room, and collection of supplements impressed everyone with his exceptional living-alone skills.

Born in 1998, Bae In-hyuk charmed viewers with his ability to appeal to both the MZ generation and older audiences. He enjoyed a morning coffee while indulging in the trending 'keycap-mong' and displayed a fondness for corn and hot fermented soybean stew. His unique habits, like washing his face while doing the dishes, prompted Kian84 to comment, "He feels like a superstar in the making."

Koo Seong-hwan revealed that Bae In-hyuk's nickname is 'Bae-rushin' due to his love for old songs and snacks on drama sets, which was evident during a car ride to his family's countryside home. Bae In-hyuk held a solo concert, singing 27 nostalgic songs, bringing laughter to the show.

Upon arriving at his family's rural home, Bae In-hyuk showcased his adeptness at gathering wild greens, particularly his favorite, shepherd's purse, demonstrating his 'wild greens expert' persona. Spending time cooking and playing soccer with his lifelong friends, Bae In-hyuk reflected, "Living alone and working various part-time jobs since I was young made me appreciate my parents more. People often say I'm mature, and I think living alone has contributed to that." Kian84 likened him to a 'shepherd's purse,' anticipating the rise of a springtime superstar.

Jeon Hyun-moo embarked on a mission to emulate Park Cheon-hyu's interior design style, declaring, "Today's goal is 'Cheonhyu-terior.'" He visited a Scandinavian furniture store, indulging in a shopping spree for 'Cheonhyu items.' Park Cheon-hyu humorously remarked, "I've never heard my name mentioned so much," as Jeon Hyun-moo's obsession continued to amuse viewers.

Jeon Hyun-moo filled his cart with 'Cheonhyu items' to revitalize his cluttered 'Muskiya Studio,' along with must-have hot items. His arrival with a cart overflowing with boxes brought laughter to the Rainbow Club members. After spending approximately 1.4 million won on chairs, tables, and lighting, Jeon Hyun-moo accidentally broke a newly purchased lamp during assembly, adding to the comedic chaos.

Despite the mishaps, Jeon Hyun-moo completed his 'Cheonhyu-terior' project, dedicating a piece of art to Park Cheon-hyu. Immersed in the creative process, he used oil pastels to fill the canvas with vibrant colors, drawing inspiration from 'Basquiat' and even venturing into 'Chagall's' style.

When the 'artwork' was finally unveiled, Park Cheon-hyu was moved, saying, "I can't believe I flew 15 hours to see this," while Code Kunst couldn't contain his laughter, exclaiming, "What is this!" Jeon Hyun-moo humorously dedicated the studio as 'Cheonhyu's Room,' leaving viewers wondering if his 'Cheonhyu obsession' will ever end.

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