Kim Kyung-wook warns impersonator YouTuber Tanaka, "I will no longer stand by and watch"

"I will no longer stand by" Kim Kyung-wook's warning to impersonating YouTubers

Comedian Kim Kyung-wook has signaled a strong response against those who unauthorizedly use his characters for profit-making activities.

Kim Kyung-wook recently revealed through social media that he received reports of individuals impersonating Tanaka and Kim Hong-nam to perform busking, or using DMs (Direct Messages) while pretending to be Tanaka to solicit donations and collect money. He shared the details of the damage, stating, "I keep hearing stories that people are pretending to be Tanaka via DM to perform busking and receive sponsorships or collect money."

As the impersonation continues to recur, Kim Kyung-wook has taken a firm stance. He stated firmly, "If the act of deceiving people continues, I will no longer stand by and will have no choice but to consider necessary measures." He expressed his determination to protect his character's intellectual property (IP), hoping that this post and video would serve as a "final warning" to the impersonating YouTubers.

Kim Kyung-wook, who debuted as a 6th generation SBS open recruitment comedian in 2001, is even considering legal action to protect the value of the characters he has built over time.

Long hair and tanned skin, transforming into senior model 'Kim Wild-ook'

After issuing a sharp warning regarding the impersonation issue, Kim Kyung-wook expanded his content territory by revealing a new alter ego. On the 4th, Kim uploaded a video to social media with the caption, "A 'BAD' video of senior model Kim Wild-ook, which looks even weirder if you watch it in secret."

In the video, Kim Kyung-wook showcased a visual completely different from his previous appearance. He paired long black hair flowing down one shoulder with a deep-cut black top and jeans. With thick eyebrows, a mustache, and a tanned skin tone, he transformed into a senior model who leaves a strong impression.

His performance, involving exaggerated facial expressions and bold poses while staring into the camera, contains intentional over-acting and parody elements. This 'Kim Wild-ook' is an extension of the character universe he has built, including the Japanese host concept 'Tanaka Yukio', trot singer 'Kim Hong-nam', and aspiring designer 'Kim Gun-wook'.

The power of 'alter egos' that increased income tenfold, branding continued for over 5 years

Kim Kyung-wook's move into alter egos has led to substantial economic achievements. He personally revealed that his income has increased approximately tenfold compared to his activities with the group Namolla Family while appearing on the KBS2 variety show 'Secha JANG'.

At the foundation of this success lies Kim Kyung-wook's unique strategy. In past broadcasts, he emphasized the secret to the success of his alter egos as "consistency. I don't end it just because it doesn't work immediately. Four years is the baseline, and I continue for more than five years." The core lies in the long-term branding and continuous expansion of the universe required for a character to settle with the public.

The Tanaka character is a representative case of achieving public success after a long period of preparation. Based on his original character planning abilities, Kim Kyung-wook, who is expanding his field of activity, has introduced yet another character through 'Kim Wild-ook'.