The representative national entertainment program of South Korea, tvN's 'You Quiz on the Block', has successfully kicked off its rich 300th special episode.
On the broadcast aired on the 2nd, the 300th special of 'You Quiz on the Block (directed by Kwak Cheong-ha and Hong Jin-joo, written by Lee Eon-joo)' featured writer Park Cheon-hyu, who won six Tony Awards for the Korean original musical 'Perhaps Happy Ending', and era icon Lee Hyori, engaging in genuine discussions. As it was the 300th special episode, it was made more meaningful with special guests who have made significant contributions to South Korea's popular culture. The episode recorded the highest viewership ratings in its time slot, including cable comprehensive programming channels, and achieved the top rating across all channels during the same time slot, including terrestrial networks, for tvN's target demographic of viewers aged 20 to 49. (Nielsen Korea, based on paid platforms)
Writer Park Cheon-hyu, who swept six Tony Awards with the Korean original musical 'Perhaps Happy Ending', captivated attention by sharing his journey from a small theater in Daehangno to Broadway over the past 10 years. 'Perhaps Happy Ending' is a work that tells the story of robots Oliver and Claire, created to assist humans, set in the future. Park noted that he conceived this work during the hardest times in his life, including the breakup with his long-term partner and the death of his closest friend. An anecdote about having a video call with director Steven Spielberg after winning the Tony Awards also attracted interest. Park conveyed Spielberg's first comment, saying, 'The Korean background was really attractive; it felt like being in future Korea,' adding, "I cried from that moment."
Park Cheon-hyu, who had worked as a lyricist in Korea, met his current partner Will Aaronson after joining the New York University School of Art. He has been in a relationship with Will Aaronson for 14 years since starting the musical 'Bungee Jumping', and they inspire each other. Park Cheon-hyu expressed his deep feelings for Will Aaronson, saying, "Perhaps I used up all my luck in life to meet Will." On that day, Will Aaronson made a surprise appearance via video connection, mentioning the popularity of 'Perhaps Happy Ending,' which has recorded a 103% audience share on Broadway, and added laughter with the comment, "It’s chaotic." Park Cheon-hyu expressed gratitude, stating that 'Perhaps Happy Ending' is a work to which he devoted his youth, saying, 'If 'Perhaps Happy Ending' is a tree, the love and interest of the Korean audience is the soil. That love made it possible for the Broadway debut.'
The story of singer Lee Hyori, beloved as an icon of the era, was also shared. Lee Hyori conveyed a deep resonance through her unique refreshing and unrestrained talk, sharing sincere stories that could not be heard anywhere else. With Yoo Jae-suk, whom she has worked with since her rookie days, they showcased the presence of the nation's siblings who have been friends for 27 years through constant banter. Lee Hyori added interest by sharing about the challenging experience of conquering the entertainment world during her time with Fin.K.L, as well as the legendary stories of her activities and her prime years.
Lee Hyori shared her current status, saying, "It's been six months since I moved from Jeju to Seoul, and as I roam around with my husband (Lee Sang-soon), it feels like a newlywed fun." Additionally, she confessed that she has been deeply contemplating music recently, hinting that she is preparing a new song with Maevi, the composer and lyricist of 'Ten Minutes'. The impromptu live performances she showcased, including 'Comfort' by Kwon Jin-ah and 'Going Home' by Kim Yoon-ah, also captivated hearts. On that day, Lee Hyori unveiled a painting of her companion animal, Soonsim, which she drew in Jeju, unable to hide her feelings. She also expressed her heartfelt emotions for her companion animals, who are nearing the end of their lives, creating a somber atmosphere.
Insight into her convictions about work and life was also shared. Lee Hyori stated, "There was a time when I was really kind, but it wasn't that I became kind; rather, my energy was depleted. Consequently, I felt like all my charms disappeared." She continued, "While maintaining warmth and kindness, I thought it would be good to draw up the energy of the past. I miss the intensity of my past in terms of music and work." Finally, Lee Hyori confessed, "I think the love you've all given has been a great driving force. I was often afraid that small mistakes would cause that love to disappear. For the last 27 years, I've often felt anxious." She added sincerely, "If you could give me a little more generous love, I would also love you a lot in return," leaving a touching afterglow.
As it's the 300th special episode, the thankful remarks from MCs Yoo Jae-suk and Cho Sae-ho towards the viewers also added meaning. In particular, Yoo Jae-suk expressed, "The fact that 'You Quiz' has come to 300 episodes is all thanks to the viewers. Until the day it reaches 400 or 500 episodes, we will continue to work hard on 'You Quiz'. I sincerely thank all the participants who have been with us over the 300 episodes, the production team, our Joseph, and the viewers."
Lee Hyori did not leave out her congratulations. She shared, "When I heard that I would be on 'You Quiz', people around me were really envious and happy. It made me realize that this is a program loved by so many people, and I hope it will always be with us." Especially towards Yoo Jae-suk, she pointed out, "Even when giving thanks for the 300th episode, (Yoo Jae-suk) oppa omits his name. He always puts others forward while staying back himself, and it’s really amazing. I'm grateful for his very existence." Furthermore, Lee Hyori and Yoo Jae-suk praised Cho Sae-ho for his role in lightening up the atmosphere, saying, "That role isn't something anyone can do," further adding warmth.
'You Quiz', which has built a solid foundation of 300 episodes with unwavering love over the past 7 years, will return next week with an even richer special episode for the viewers. The broadcast scheduled for the 9th will feature guests who were legends seven years ago, self-proclaimed 'Sanel Beauty Salon' members, actress Scarlett Johansson, who is greatly loved in Korea to the extent of having the nickname 'Hansuni', the legendary late-blooming scholar Gong Geun-sik, who became a space engineer after farming watermelons, as well as stories of participants recommended directly by viewers to commemorate the 300th episode, enhancing anticipation.
[Photo] 'You Quiz'
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