MBC's 'Manito Club' Delivers Laughter with Hilarious Support for Ulsan Whales

MBC's 'Manito Club' brought laughter with its chaotic chemistry while supporting the Ulsan Whales. Despite its comedic success, the show recorded a disappointing 1% viewership rating on March 29 and April 5.

The 11th episode, aired on the 12th, featured the third group of members supporting the opening game of the Ulsan Whales, the first citizen baseball team in KBO. The episode kicked off with surprise appearances by Lee Soo-ji and Chef Yoon Nam-no from the first and second groups. As the 'Secret Manito' event approached, the members' strategic efforts added excitement and engagement.

For the mission, members split into the WhalesTV team and the citizen interview team. Cha Tae-hyun, Park Bo-young, Kang Hoon, and Lee Soo-ji infiltrated the training grounds disguised as media personnel. From Park Bo-young in an orca costume to Cha Tae-hyun as a filming director, they boldly conducted interviews and took group photos. However, tension rose when Kang Hoon's identity was nearly exposed.

The WhalesTV team faced more challenges during player interviews, with Cha Tae-hyun stumbling over questions. Park Bo-young, in her orca costume, smoothly took over, maintaining the flow. Lee Soo-ji, moved by the players' passion, added humor with her emotional reactions.

Meanwhile, the citizen interview team, led by Hwang Kwang-hee, engaged with the public in Ulsan. Chef Yoon Nam-no and 'promotion fairy' Lee Sun-bin also contributed, capturing the city's vibrant energy for a special video.

Back at the accommodation, the WhalesTV team regrouped. Park Bo-young presented thoughtful gifts to her Manito, Cha Tae-hyun, including books for his entire family. The citizen interview team joined for a lively dinner prepared by Chef Yoon Nam-no, who impressed with his unique ramen recipe.

Led by Commander Cha Tae-hyun, creative ideas flowed. Lee Soo-ji shocked everyone with a bold fashion idea reminiscent of her past pitch appearance. Cha Tae-hyun and Park Bo-young showcased their chemistry, reminiscent of their film 'Speed Scandal' from 18 years ago.

The highlight was recording the cheer song, composed by music director Hong Kyung-min. While Cha Tae-hyun led smoothly and Park Bo-young and Lee Sun-bin recorded flawlessly, Hwang Kwang-hee's unexpected antics brought chaos. Kang Hoon and Chef Yoon Nam-no completed their parts, and Lee Soo-ji's ad-libs added laughter. As the intense bonding and family-like chemistry peaked, anticipation builds for the successful completion of the 'Secret Manito' mission.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr