Actor Choi Soo-jong will host 'Table of Korean People,' succeeding Choi Bul-am.
On 10th, a press conference for the 700th episode of KBS1's 'Table of Korean People' and the new presenter was held at the international conference hall of KBS's new building in Yeouido, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul.
'Table of Korean People' has served as a 'repository of flavor memories' that transcends a simple food program, documenting the culture and history contained in a meal as well as stories from local communities, while encapsulating memories and nostalgia. It has sought out various seasonal foods, sharing the wisdom of life and the warmth of family and neighbors.
Beginning with its first broadcast in January 2011, 'Table of Korean People' has symbolized Choi Bul-am, who has wrapped up a lengthy journey over the past 14 years and 3 months, uncovering the lives and culture of Koreans at the table across the nation. The new guide for 'Table of Korean People,' Choi Soo-jong, is expected to become a warm friend and approachable neighbor for viewers, embodying the image of a beloved husband, son, elder brother.
Im PD noted, "Choi Bul-am has devotedly traveled across the country every week for the past 14 years without fail. His affection, passion, and sense of mission for the program were profound. He showed that searching for the roots of our culture and the original sources was not only for the sake of broadcasting, but that such things must be the foundation for maintaining a stable community society." He continued, "During his vacation last year, there was a process where many filled in, and around January, he conveyed his desire to pass the baton to a junior. In reality, Choi Bul-am is our symbol, with a unique power in his speech and gestures. I couldn’t even imagine him stepping down, and I requested several times for him to reconsider, but he had a strong will. It seemed too much to ask again, so after careful consideration, we finally decided on Choi Soo-jong as the successor presenter."
He added, "Upon informing Choi Bul-am that Choi Soo-jong would be the new presenter, he expressed his hope that our deep and rich flavors would be continued. He showed support, saying Choi Soo-jong would do well."
Furthermore, PD Lim Gi-soon stated, "In the initial process of deciding who the successor presenter would be, we selected the criteria for presenters. The most important thing was that they should have a high public recognition across all ages and genders, be able to express warmth to integrate well with ordinary people on site, and above all, must be a healthy individual who understands the program's identity and the value of food culture documentation with their heart, making an effort to convey messages to viewers with sincerity." He added, "Choi Soo-jong is known even to elementary school students. He is a living witness of historical dramas, and represents KBS as an actor. While Choi Bul-am was a deep presenter based on experience, Choi Soo-jong is known as a 'national husband,' so his approachability and closeness are strengths. He carries a healthy energy that radiates brightness and cheerfulness, but he is also emotional. He once had to stop the dubbing session because he got choked up. Being emotional also means he is good at empathizing. I believe he will convey those aspects well."
The 700th episode of KBS1's 'Table of Korean People' with the new presenter Choi Soo-jong is set to broadcast on the 10th at 7:40 p.m.
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