MBC's 'Village Chief Lee Jang-woo 3' Premieres Tonight: A Blend of Tradition and Celebrity Charm

MBC's 'Village Chief Lee Jang-woo 3' is set to premiere tonight at 9 PM. The show features Lee Jang-woo, who married Jo Hye-won last November, as he learns recipes from hidden culinary masters and immerses himself in the rural life of Buan, North Jeolla Province.

With each season, 'Village Chief Lee Jang-woo' has consistently broken its own viewership records, establishing itself as a flagship seasonal program for MBC. Season 3 returns unusually quickly, just five months after Season 2 concluded. Director Park So-hee attributes this rapid return to the genuine harmony between Lee Jang-woo and the village elders, as well as the enthusiastic requests from various regions. Park also emphasized that Lee's culinary skills and sociability perfectly align with the show's core theme of regional revitalization, and the trust built with MBC over more than a decade, starting with 'I Live Alone,' played a significant role.

Lee Jang-woo responded to the production team's praise with enthusiasm, even suggesting his appearance on 'Good Morning FM with Taei' to promote Season 3. On today's (29th) radio show, he appeared on Chef Lee Won-il's segment 'Tasteful Gentleman,' sharing various behind-the-scenes stories. Lee teased the identity of a true 'rice thief' he discovered while exploring Buan's mountains and seas, surprising the production team. DJ Taei was so captivated by Lee's stories about Buan that he expressed a strong desire to visit.

In tonight's premiere, Lee Jang-woo heads to Buan in search of the 'rice thief.' He settles in a charming rural village, where warm-hearted and unique residents welcome him, marking the start of his life in Buan.

This season also features a star-studded lineup of guests. Notably, Lee's wife, Jo Hye-won, makes her first appearance to support her husband, showcasing their sweet newlywed chemistry. Director Park praised Jo, saying, "The atmosphere changed the moment she arrived in Buan. Her unrestrained charm impressed everyone, both during filming and in unexpected moments."

As Lee Jang-woo's sincerity continues into its third year, viewers are eager to see if it will once again capture their hearts. 'Village Chief Lee Jang-woo 3' premieres tonight at 9 PM.

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