Broadcaster Choi Eun-kyung is leaving 'Dongchimi' after 14 years, and support from fellow entertainers is pouring in.
On the 24th, news broke that Park Soo-hong and Choi Eun-kyung would be departing from MBN's 'Sokpuri Show Dongchimi' (hereafter 'Dongchimi'). The two had led 'Dongchimi' for 14 years, establishing it as a long-running program on MBN.
However, the 'Dongchimi' production team decided to replace the MCs as part of reforms marking the station's 30th anniversary, notifying Park Soo-hong and Choi Eun-kyung, who were credited with the station's success, of their departure. Although the last recording took place, it was reported that they were unable to say their farewells due to the abrupt nature of their departures, raising suspicions of forced exits.
Amid these ongoing suspicions, Choi Eun-kyung shared her feelings through a lengthy post on the 25th. She said, "Many people contacted me yesterday and today. Since I recorded the last show a few weeks ago, I was on vacation without a care in the world, but after seeing the articles, I received so many international calls that I was shocked; I ended up being surprised instead."
Choi Eun-kyung said, "In fact, I feel quite embarrassed to have all eyes on me for farewell messages and speeches, as it is not my nature (though you might not think so). I believe my greatest farewell to everyone is to enjoy the recording as usual, rather than doing anything separate from the broadcast. Although I was too embarrassed to express it on air, seeing everyone reach out and express their regrets made me feel it would be courteous to say goodbye in writing to our long-time 'Dongchimi' family and those who love 'Dongchimi,' even if it's brief, so I'm leaving this here."
She continued, "Having spent over 13 years and appearing on 'Dongchimi' with everyone who contributed to its creation and all the viewers who loved 'Dongchimi,' I was able to grow so much thanks to the stories you generously shared. Through your concerns, I unraveled my own worries, and through your lives, I adjusted the direction of my life, becoming a little better as a mother, daughter, and daughter-in-law. It was truly an honor to have been part of 'Dongchimi,' which was a reference book for my life, and I hope you continue to love 'Dongchimi'. I am sincerely, sincerely grateful."
Additionally, she stated, "Starting in my 40s and now in my 50s, I would like to congratulate (she truly did congratulate me over text, haha, telling me to stop making 'Dongchimi' and go on spring outings) creator Yoon Kyung's book title like this." She added, "Even beyond 50, a thousand Taeyangs are shining, so I will passionately write down my Dongchimi liberation diary. Having never had a break from work in my life, I will continue to work hard in more broadcasts, just as I have always done. Thank you! From Dongchimi ex-housemadam."
As Choi Eun-kyung prepares to leave 'Dongchimi' after 14 years, reactions of regret and support from fellow entertainers continue. Broadcaster Jang Young-ran commented, "My wonderful role model, Eun-kyung, you did an amazing job. You are shining brighter than ever these days. Your life in your 50s and 60s will be more radiant than anyone else's. I look forward to it and support you with all my heart," while Kim Kyung-hwa stated, "You really made your mark, senior. Now it's time to rest and play. Fighting!"
An Seon-young also said, "With me through the most turbulent five and a half years of being single, married, and a mother... 'Dongchimi.' Thanks to that, I met a wonderful mentor, we cried, laughed, and were happy together. I learned a lot from your incredible consistency. Now, may you do more and more of what you want in the rest of your life and enjoy it to the fullest."
Additionally, acquaintances expressed, "I am so, so disappointed... I will support your future path," "Forever the 'Dongchimi' housemadam," "It's so disappointing," and "You've really worked hard."
[Photo] OSEN DB, Choi Eun-kyung
[OSEN]