Lee Hwi-jae Makes Surprise Return as MC on 'Immortal Songs' After 4-Year Hiatus

Lee Hwi-jae made a surprise return as an MC on 'Immortal Songs' after a four-year hiatus.

On the October 4th broadcast of KBS 2TV's 'Immortal Songs', the second part of the '2026 Entertainment King of Kings' competition was aired.

In the waiting room, comedians showcased their wit. Lee Sang-hoon mentioned, "My mother is a fan of 'Immortal Songs'. She might cry when she sees me on the show," prompting other comedians to jokingly question why he didn't invite her to the audience, sparking a playful debate about filial piety.

Watching the lively banter, Lee Hwi-jae smiled and said, "This atmosphere is so fun." He added, "The writers said the recording would be long, but I wouldn't mind if it went on until the day after tomorrow. It's been so long since I've laughed like this. I'm so happy."

Lee Hwi-jae also expressed his respect for the late Jeon Yoo-sung, saying, "He was someone who made juniors feel comfortable. He was a senior who was loved by everyone."

As the comedians continued their banter, Hong Seok-cheon remarked, "There are so many comedians here, it's draining." To which Kim Shin-young and Park Joon-hyung responded, "You're a comedian too. Once a comedian, always a comedian," playfully bickering.

Amidst the chaotic atmosphere, Kim Jun-hyun eventually stood up from the MC seat and asked Lee Hwi-jae, "Could you please take over here?" Known for his past roles as an MC on various entertainment programs, Lee Hwi-jae skillfully calmed the room with a simple "Three claps, let's start."

After organizing the talk in the waiting room, Lee Hwi-jae smoothly continued the show by asking, "How did you find the stage?" Kim Jun-hyun praised him, saying, "This is where you belong," and welcomed him back to the MC seat after four years, exclaiming, "Lee Hwi-jae is back."

Meanwhile, Lee Hwi-jae had taken a break from broadcasting and spent time in Canada after facing negative public opinion due to personal issues involving his family, such as noise complaints and his wife Moon Jung-won's amusement park controversy in 2022.

Kim Eun-jung, TenAsia Reporter eun@tenasia.co.kr