Yoo Jae-suk's 'Hae-tu' first broadcast records 3%, Na Young-seok

Return After 6 Years: Yoo Jae-suk Proves His Power as the 'Nation's MC'

Entertainer Yoo Jae-suk left a strong impression on living rooms with his return to 'Happy Together' after six years. According to a Nielsen Korea survey on the 10th, the first broadcast of KBS 2TV's 'Happy Together - Glad We're Not Alone (Hae-tu)' recorded a 3% viewership rating nationwide. The peak instantaneous viewership reached 4.8% based on the same criteria.

This is the highest figure for a first episode among KBS variety programs broadcast in 2026.

The results of the head-to-head battle with competing channels were also clear. At the same time on tvN, PD Na Young-seok's 'Kong Kong Pam Pam (Where Beans are Planted, Beans Grow)' was broadcast. 'Kong Kong Pam Pam,' which recorded a 2.2% rating for nationwide paid broadcasting households according to Nielsen Korea, had consistently maintained ratings in the 2% range after hitting 3% in its first broadcast, but it hit a new low on the day of 'Hae-tu's' premiere. It appears Yoo Jae-suk has gained the upper hand in the battle against PD Na Young-seok's crew.

The program is operated under a 3-MC system called the 'Bulte Trio,' consisting of Yoo Jae-suk, Jang Hang-jun, and Yoon Jong-shin. Additionally, Lee Hyori joined as a special MC. The cast included Big Mama's Shin Yeon-ah, composer Lee Hyun-jung, chorus singer Kim Hyo-soo, and parent best friends Kim In-sook and Kim Hyun-kyung. Click-B, returning as a full group after 11 years, singer Bang Ye-dam, and Bang Ye-dam's parents also took the stage.

The stage by child participant Jeon Yu-jun, who overcame autism spectrum disorder, and his mother Park Eun-ju, moved viewers. Jeon Yu-jun sang with a clear voice alongside his mother. The story of Jeon Yu-jun and his mother will continue through the second episode. It was also announced that Tu-gae-mul, returning after 13 years, will reunite with Yoon Jong-shin.

'Hae-tu,' which has been loved for over 20 years, balanced the two codes of humor and emotion. Yoo Jae-suk demonstrated hosting skills that have formed deep connections not only with celebrities but also with ordinary people through various programs such as 'You Quiz on the Block.' KBS 2TV's 'Happy Together - Glad We're Not Alone' is reviving the true meaning of 'Happy Together' with diverse 'life teammates.'

Choi Hong-man and Tzuyang's Close-Contact Pose Controversy, Turns Out to Be a 'Signature' Happening

A single photo of mixed martial arts fighter Choi Hong-man taken with mukbang creator Tzuyang has sparked controversy online. On the 12th, Choi Hong-man posted a photo with Tzuyang on his account. The photo, taken during the filming of the ENA·K-STAR·NXT variety show 'Tzuyang's Meals,' shows the 217cm tall Choi Hong-man sitting the 161cm tall Tzuyang on one of his knees in a close-contact pose.

Immediately after the photo was released, netizens reacted with comments like "Wasn't Tzuyang kidnapped by Choi Hong-man?" and "They look like a father and daughter." However, as time passed, some netizens speculated, "The pose seems a bit excessive" and "Are they dating?", leading to a chilling public opinion as critical comments were left on Choi Hong-man's account.

Upon verification, the pose was actually Choi Hong-man's unique signature. Choi Hong-man has consistently left proof shots utilizing the size difference with various celebrities such as Yoo Jae-suk, Jo Se-ho, G-Dragon, Choi Ye-na, and Lee Jung-jae. In the past, he even showcased a Reels video where he lifted Tzuyang up in a princess carry. Hasty misunderstandings without checking the context fueled the controversy.

Meanwhile, the two worked together in the 7th episode of 'Tzuyang's Meals' broadcast on the 11th, visiting a famous Jeju meat noodle restaurant. During the broadcast, Choi Hong-man revealed that he eats six meals a day. He was seen affectionately taking care of Tzuyang with food and snacks.

The Bulte Trio, Special MC, and Welcome Faces

Yoo Jae-suk, Jang Hang-jun, and Yoon Jong-shin established the 'Bulte Trio' 3-MC system. Lee Hyori joined to add strength as a special MC.

Big Mama's Shin Yeon-ah, composer Lee Hyun-jung, and chorus singer Kim Hyo-soo appeared. Parent best friends Kim In-sook and Kim Hyun-kyung also joined the gathering. Click-B, returning as a full group after 11 years, singer Bang Ye-dam, and Bang Ye-dam's parents took the stage.

Child participant Jeon Yu-jun presented a singing performance with his mother, Park Eun-ju.