'Infinite Challenge' makes a surprise return through 'What Do You Do When You Play?' after 16 years, drawing attention as the producer reveals the reason.

Today (22nd), through the MBC entertainment program 'What Do You Do When You Play?' (abbreviated as 'What Do You Do'), the surprise return of MBC's legendary entertainment show 'Infinite Challenge' (abbreviated as 'IC') originally aired in 2009 is coming back. In this context, Kim Jin-yong, the producer of 'What Do You Do When You Play?', shared the planning intention with OSEN.

"Recently, there have been so many articles about the economic downturn," Kim Jin-yong said, "As we sought ways to support self-employed individuals while bringing them joy, the idea of a surprise return came about."

Given that 'Infinite Challenge' is still remembered as a legendary show, there is a substantial fan base that recalls its nostalgia and myth. There are various opinions regarding the showcase of past 'Infinite Challenge' items on 'What Do You Do When You Play?'. With the appearances of Yoo Jae-suk and Haha sustaining the unique tradition of Saturday variety, there are opinions welcoming the revival of past 'IC' items while others express disappointment, hoping for something new from 'What Do You Do When You Play?'.

In this context, Kim Jin-yong cautiously drew the line, stating, "Our production team is not intentionally seeking out past entertainment or items." Rather, he shared his own struggles by saying, "We've thought a lot about it," and explained his intentions carefully, adding, "There’s no reason to deliberately avoid proven good precedents. Since many still seek it, I hope they will watch with joy in their hearts."

There were also points for 'What Do You Do' that are different from 'IC's 'surprise return'. Given the natures of members such as Joo Woo-jae and Lee Mi-joo, who tend to emphasize eating, a different portrayal is expected compared to the past. In response, Kim Jin-yong said with a smile, "They've made their own efforts to do their best," and jokingly added, "Please check if it helped actual sales after watching the show."

Additionally, he emphasized the significance of guests, stating, "More than the eating habits of the participants, we wanted to raise sales in line with the purpose of the 'surprise return.' However, I thought that just our members might not be enough. Just as it had been done with the wrestling team in 'Infinite Challenge', this time we invited about 40 people who could enjoy a meal together with the joyful feeling for 'What Do You Do When You Play?'."

Above all, he added, "Before this project, I encountered too many news reports about how difficult it is for self-employed individuals. However, it is not that we intend to convey a grand social message. We started with the thought of wanting to provide a little more comfortable laughter to viewers, so I hope you enjoy your time while watching." The show is set to air at 6:25 p.m. today.

[Photo] Provided by MBC.

[OSEN]