PD Kim Tae-ho's production company TEO and ENA's beloved entertainment show 'Earth Monopoly World Tour 3' has once again promised the three travel leaders, GwakTube, PaniBottle, and Wonji, who were surprised by the scale of investment, to turn the world into a game board.
On the morning of the 20th, a production presentation for ENA and TEO's new entertainment show 'Earth Monopoly World Tour 3' (abbreviated as Earth Monopoly 3) was held in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul. Present were participants GwakTube, PaniBottle, and Wonji, along with the program's director PD Kim Hun-bum and series planner PD Kim Tae-ho. They discussed the program under the guidance of comedian Yoo Jae-pil.
'Earth Monopoly' series features three travel creators known as 'GwakPaWon'—GwakTube, PaniBottle, and Wonji—participating in a global travel game designed by PD Kim Tae-ho, throwing dice and embarking on journeys around the world. A rollercoaster-like journey around the Earth with dice is expected to deliver exhilarating fun once again.
'Earth Monopoly' reached a combined peak viewership rating of 3.3% for Seasons 1 and 2 and surpassed 60 million total views on YouTube, establishing itself as a flagship content for ENA and production company TEO. Season 3 will expand its scale through a new concept called 'Earth Monopoly Theme Park,' featuring a variety of missions.
PD Kim Tae-ho said, "Thank you for your precious attendance. I think the 'Earth Monopoly' series has reached a relationship where we can greet each other like ENA's annual event, so we are also quite looking forward to this series. Especially this 'Earth Monopoly 3' aims to fill in a diverse picture without losing the essence of Seasons 1 and 2, and the production team and creators have put in a lot of effort to achieve this. Please enjoy it."
PaniBottle remarked, "I didn't think we would reach Season 3. I feel like I will be saying this again in Season 4. Season 3's results were good last time, but I have a personal wish for them to be even better," smiling. Wonji added, "I too, have been doing this for three years now, and I couldn't even imagine we would have a Season 3 after just Season 1, so I am very moved. We all filmed hard for Season 3, so please watch it well."
GwakTube commented, "We prepared a more entertaining season, so I would be grateful for your interest," and PD Kim Hun-bum also added, "I didn't expect we would make it to Season 3, but I'm very happy we've gotten this far with good opportunities. I ask for your continued interest."
'Earth Monopoly' has become TEO's representative intellectual property. PD Kim Tae-ho said, "Even after Seasons 1 and 2 had ended, we received many inquiries about the next season as we prepared for it. A common feedback we received was the keyword 'vicarious satisfaction.' While viewers cannot travel immediately, we prepared with the thought of allowing them to experience travel instead. In doing so, each country is different, and so are the themes, but I believe the fact that we are united in spirit is the driving force of our program."
Moreover, he mentioned, "In the past, I discussed with PaniBottle that this time we are proceeding with a theme park in the early or mid-stage, so let me inform you in advance that we have prepared segments like Food Festa, Amazing Kingdom, and Crazy World as part of the program's sections," hinting at the potential for expanded content.
The three participants became more concerned about differentiating their channels with the third season. Wonji said, "When PD Kim Tae-ho was planning Season 1, he told us to keep our YouTube format in mind, and I personally think this program allows us to express our individuality quite well."
GwakTube revealed, "We filmed in the same style as our channel. These days, I shoot GwakTube as if I were shooting 'Earth Monopoly.' In my YouTube, I used to use rougher language a lot, but now I can't even express 'so delicious.' I think I've become a bit gentler."
PaniBottle shared, "I think the nature of my channel differs from that of the show. While my channel has a distinct style, I think the 'Earth Monopoly' series appeals to a diverse age range. Activities that might not be good content on my YouTube are approached differently within the program."
Discussing the differentiation points revealed through the series, PD Kim Tae-ho stated, "If Season 1 brought the three of you together into a Monopoly format, Season 2 focused on unexpected environments in a Jumanji-like way. This time, we incorporated game elements that allow for choosing countries through methods other than dice. We made an effort not to miss out on the core travel aspects. Since all three of you have grown significantly as creators, I believe that if I had included variety or gaming elements for you early on, it wouldn't have worked out, but now that you're doing 'Blood Game 3' and 'Devil's Plan,' the composition has become quite solid."
Regarding the filming site, PD Kim Hun-bum mentioned, "I thought there was no more to go up from the three of you since Season 1, but you all exceeded expectations. Initially, there was only a YouTube vibe, but now your skills in providing satisfaction to viewers through broadcast emotions have grown remarkably. It is impressive to see you enjoying travel while maintaining your original intent."
He emphasized, "Regarding the variety genre, the concept being a theme park stems from the fact that the three of you are enjoying the world as if it were an amusement park. While maintaining the basic setup of Monopoly, we included islands on special spaces and special theme park sections to create a more engaging play area whenever you land on them."
What about the chemistry among 'GwakPaWon'? PaniBottle said, "It's strange to say chemistry with GwakTube because we really don't communicate personally unless there's something necessary. It's not that we have a bad relationship; rather, it feels like family. I treat him like my younger brother. As for Wonji, our relationship is still in the early stages. I've tried to become closer, but it's okay that it's like this. It's not that we're on bad terms."
In response, Wonji said, "I'm exactly the same. I think the chemistry among the three of us is that we feel like indifferent siblings. That's why I think viewers find it more comfortable to watch," laughing. GwakTube added, "Unlike the previous 'Earth Monopoly,' we start off by confirming the chemistry among the three of us. I'm very close to Pani and Wonji."
Regarding these dynamics, PD Kim Tae-ho mentioned that what was strengthened in Season 3 was, "The chemistry amongst companions who go through experiences together is an important element. Whether awkward or closer, it becomes more natural, and we emphasize this evolved chemistry."
Moreover, GwakTube discussed how they've grown during Season 3, stating, "'Earth Monopoly' was the first program I consistently participated in. I didn't understand the broadcast system. Initially, I thought there were too many people with one PD and three camera directors. I felt like I could just take a GoPro alone. But now I've accurately understood how the crew is structured with camera directors and PDs. This understanding has greatly helped me in fitting in with the crew's chemistry. The more experience I gain over the three years, the easier it has become to excel in other broadcasts."
The closest observer, PD Kim Hun-bum, remarked, "When we did Season 1, GwakTube seemed to think YouTube was his only world. However, I witnessed him realizing that there is another realm of broadcasting. When GwakTube asked why we should shoot certain food inserts, now he often asks why we wouldn't shoot them. Essentially, he has a strong 'tsundere' attitude. If the director has allergies, he'll make sure to bring lunch boxes for him. I wanted to mention this beautiful anecdote. I have seen him being more insightful and aware of what he should do. The others are just as impressive in their own right. Working with them is a joy," he said with a smile.
Wonji added, "I've also begun appearing on television because of 'Earth Monopoly.' I felt the same way. At first, I was stunned by the difference in formats while trying to film what I wanted on YouTube. Now that I spend time with PDs and directors, I've improved in capturing and enhancing moments, especially when I entered the Giraffe Hotel alone during Season 2. I've learned that even a three-year novice can gain insights over time. We've gained valuable editing skills while working with guests, aiming to enhance their attractive qualities. This insight wasn't clear before, but I'm grateful for what I've learned from 'Earth Monopoly.'"
PaniBottle similarly expressed, "What the two of you said resonates with me. Up until Season 1, I lacked a sense of responsibility. I wondered if this format would really work and there was some ambiguity. But as we moved through Seasons 2 and 3, I found myself taking ownership. The three of us have started to discuss aspects of quantity and fun, treating this program as if it's our channel. Watching the hard work of many people involved in the production made me feel a strong sense of responsibility. I may still have a long way to go, but I'm working hard."
PD Kim Hun-bum, who is presenting 'Earth Monopoly 3' during a period of crisis for TEO, stated, "I don't consider myself someone in crisis or on trial. I laughed while saying that I am experiencing this tight-knit program with participants for the first time since I started my career, aside from working with teams of 40 to 100 staff members on other projects. I cherish this experience that I could not encounter elsewhere."
He continued, "While experiencing 'Earth Monopoly 3' and having many discussions with senior Tae-ho, I've realized that looking back, Season 1 feels a bit messy. Regarding the directorial focus for Season 3, since we are starting domestically, there are episodes where the GwakPaWon creators showcase domestic travel. The travel experts have become even more seasoned, presenting new countries and new content. In Season 2, it felt awkward, but in Season 3, the chemistry presented with the new travel partners seems much more natural and friendly. We've now taken a more observational role. Please enjoy the travel experiences shared with partners. This chemistry is our primary focus."
PD Kim Hun-bum added, "Both Pani and Wonji don't tend to pay attention to celebrities, yet they were surprisingly excited by the reason why this season's travel mates have raised expectations. In response, Wonji jokingly exclaimed, "I almost fainted," while PaniBottle noted, "I'll refrain from talking too much as it might become a spoiler." GwakTube also revealed, "It seems ENA really loves us, as I felt we received ample investment." He expressed, "I felt that the travel mates fit our personalities perfectly."
As the observing members have changed, their determination to win has intensified. Wonji was the winner in Season 1, and GwakTube in Season 2. PaniBottle stated, "Initially, I said winning wasn't necessary, and although that hasn't changed, many around me have suggested that I try for it. The poster features me prominently, and people are encouraging me. However, the guests we traveled with genuinely enjoyed the experience and have expressed a desire to travel again after winning, so I think it's better not to think only about myself but to want to win again to visit wonderful places, creating lasting memories. That said, I haven't set a concrete winning strategy; the priority is for the program to do well. Winning would certainly add more fun, but I don't have a specific winning strategy."
GwakTube added, "I also value the overall picture of the broadcast, so I had even expressed in an interview that I wanted Pani to win, but once filming began, it became difficult for me. While filming, there was pressure from the production that made it hard to break free. I realized that it won't be easy for Pani to win, and knowing how delighted the partners from Season 2 were when they won makes me want to work hard for them too. Hence, I feel like it's going to be tough for Pani this time."
Wonji, in a playful rivalry, remarked, "I'm uncertain myself. All three of us bring a lot of fun. I believe that the distinctions we each have really come through in Season 3. It could be a matter of personal taste. I really enjoyed the chemistry with the guests this time around. The chemistry among the three of us was delightful; it was distinctly different. The fun derived from that variety was genuinely enjoyable. I'll do my best to become the winner!"
'Earth Monopoly 3' will premiere on Saturday, the 22nd at 7:50 p.m.
[Photo] OSEN's Min Kyung-hoon.
[OSEN]