Kim Shin-young and Song Eun-yi Reunite, Quashing Feud Rumors with Laughter

Kim Shin-young and Song Eun-yi have put an end to feud rumors, reigniting their beloved comedic chemistry.

On the October 30th episode of KBS2's variety show 'Problem Child in House Season 2' (Episode 312), comedian Kim Shin-young, who is experiencing a resurgence in popularity due to her 'yo-yo effect,' joined Song Eun-yi, Kim Sook, Kim Jong-kook, Hong Jin-kyung, Yang Se-chan, and Joo Woo-jae for a lively session of quizzes and engaging conversations.

As soon as Kim Shin-young entered the rooftop room, Song Eun-yi greeted her warmly with a smile, exclaiming, “You’re back!” Kim Shin-young, with a fuller face and a generous smile, playfully showed off her 'yo-yo status' by letting Kim Sook and Song Eun-yi feel her belly fat, bringing laughter from the start.

The reunion of Song Eun-yi and Kim Shin-young on an official platform after four years drew significant attention. In 2022, Kim Shin-young announced her departure from the agency run by Song Eun-yi, sparking unexpected feud rumors. Both acknowledged hearing about the rumors and candidly shared their side of the story. Kim Shin-young expressed, “The most absurd rumor was that we had a fistfight,” adding, “I was upset but hesitant to explain for fear of creating more misunderstandings.” She clarified, “I left the agency because I wanted to pursue my own interests. I told Song Eun-yi that I wanted to see her as a mentor, not just as an agency head.”

Song Eun-yi reflected on Kim Shin-young's departure, admitting, “Honestly, I felt a bit sad. We were like family, so I was confused about how to move forward.” She continued, “When Shin-young said she wanted to see me as a mentor, I eventually understood what she meant. I’ve since resolved my feelings.” Their matured relationship after four years was touching.

Kim Sook humorously asked Kim Shin-young if she needed an agency now that she’s busier, to which Kim Shin-young cautiously replied, “I have a separate agency for my entertainment activities and an IP company.” When Hong Jin-kyung jokingly asked if she was adamant about not returning to Song Eun-yi's agency, Song Eun-yi quipped, “Are you trying to start another feud rumor?” causing laughter. The two shared a warm hug, and Kim Shin-young assured fans that 'Celeb Five' is not disbanding, hinting at a comeback after member Ahn Young-mi gives birth.

Kim Shin-young also addressed her much-discussed 'yo-yo status.' She humorously noted, “I might be the first celebrity whose weight gain was celebrated by the public,” explaining, “I lost 44kg from my peak weight of 88kg and maintained it for 13 years. It took six weeks to regain it. Initially, I thought it was just swelling.” She shared how the passing of her mentor, the late Jeon Yoo-sung, changed her perspective on life, saying, “He always told me to be happy because the end is the same for everyone. I realized life is short, and I should love myself. Whether I’m thin or chubby, it’s still me. So my yo-yo is a happy ending.”

During the quiz segment, intriguing questions like 'New safety rules added to the Valentine’s Kiss Contest in Thailand,' 'The key ingredient that completed today’s version of japchae,' and 'The 3Fs of life according to Charles Handy' were posed, adding excitement.

Kim Shin-young’s wit and humor shone throughout. She surprised everyone by revealing, “I’ve had long-term relationships, and my ex-boyfriend’s mother still sends me kimchi.” She added, “I quit dieting but continue to abstain from alcohol because I’m embarrassed by my drunken antics, like arguing with a cardboard cutout of Seolhyun.” Her impersonations, including her alter ego Davi Imo inspired by a real estate agent, were a hit, prompting Hong Jin-kyung to express her joy at witnessing the performance firsthand.

Kim Shin-young candidly discussed her battle with panic disorder, sharing, “I experienced my first panic attack on a plane when I was at my busiest at 30. I couldn’t take elevators and had to keep my doors open at home. I underwent cognitive behavioral therapy and trained by riding the Namsan cable car six times daily. Accepting panic disorder as an occasional uncomfortable friend made it easier to cope. Now, I sleep on planes.”

She also recounted a touching moment with Song Eun-yi, saying, “I had a panic attack on a flight to Melbourne. Eun-yi took me to the aisle and talked to me until we landed. It made me realize we can’t live alone.”

Finally, Song Eun-yi and Kim Sook shared their thoughts on reuniting after four years. Kim Shin-young admitted, “I got choked up thinking about how Eun-yi hid her feelings.” Song Eun-yi responded, “I also felt emotional. I missed doing shows with Shin-young,” comforting her warmly.

Tae Yuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr