Kim Shin-young Shines as a Happy Maximalist on 'I Live Alone'

Kim Shin-young showcased the epitome of a perfect homebody on MBC's 'I Live Alone.' Returning as a happy maximalist with 14 years of solo living experience, her radiant smile captivated both the Rainbow Club members and viewers.

The episode aired on the 10th, featuring the daily life of the 'multi-talented entertainer' Kim Shin-young. According to Nielsen Korea on the 11th, the episode recorded a household rating of 6.6% in the metropolitan area, ranking first among Friday variety shows. The 2054 viewership rating, a key indicator of channel competitiveness reflecting changes in media consumption, also topped Friday's overall programs at 4.4%.

The 'best moment' was when Kim Shin-young revealed the reason she stopped her 13-year diet and embraced a happy 'bulk-up.' She shared a touching story about her late mentor Jeon Yoo-sung, who, on his deathbed, expressed a longing for jjambbong (spicy seafood noodle soup) and advised her to enjoy life without holding back. This heartfelt revelation led her to love herself as she is, causing the ratings to soar to 7.8%.

As a representative homebody in the entertainment industry, Kim Shin-young made a grand return on 'I Live Alone's Rainbow Live. Her day was filled with 'happiness.' Her home, after 14 years of living alone, was a reflection of her tastes, complete with a 'denim room' and 'shoe room,' showcasing her impeccable housekeeping skills.

Kim Shin-young started her day by preparing rice and setting the table with beef bulgogi, demonstrating her thoroughness by saying, "For a happy morning, the evening must be tiring." However, a 'timing miss' with the rice cooker provided a comedic moment.

Her love for glass noodles was evident. She added them generously to her morning bulgogi and evening cheonggukjang (fermented soybean paste stew), even enjoying 'dessert noodles' before the main meal, enticing viewers' appetites. When Code Kunst remarked on her frequent use of a spoon, she humorously responded, "It's my alter ego," and shared a 'pepper sibling' moment with Jeon Hyun-moo, showcasing her seasoned wit and banter with the Rainbow Club members.

Kim Shin-young, who holds seven design patents, flaunted her 'golden hands' by customizing unique sneakers and mending pajamas with a sewing machine. Spending a day dedicated to herself while watching her favorite baseball, she shared her life philosophy, "Today is the happiest and most enjoyable. At some point, I became very grateful. Isn't it better to recognize myself than to be recognized by others?" She humorously advised viewers, "Stop dieting, everyone."

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