25 years ago, broadcaster Hong Seok-cheon declared his 'coming out' and candidly shared his feelings at the time and the changes that followed.
The KBS1 program 'Life is a Movie' airing at 11:05 p.m. on the 16th will feature guest Hong Seok-cheon alongside MC Lee Jae-sung, film critic Geojieob, and Liner, discussing works that boldly confront all forms of discrimination in the world.
This broadcast will focus on various discriminations and prejudices including racial discrimination, gender discrimination, and discrimination against the disabled.
In 2000, Hong Seok-cheon, who declared a 'courageous coming out,' shared his thoughts on the recent atmosphere of more naturally accepting queer culture, saying, 'I wondered when such an atmosphere would come' as he reminisced about that time and the changed world since.
When MC Lee Jae-sung remarked, 'You walked a solid path, and at one point, you confidently revealed yourself,' Hong Seok-cheon responded, 'I did worry it might have been a little too early, but I believe that choice became a starting point for Korea to become a somewhat open society,' reflecting on the past.
In response, Geojieob noted that it was 'one of the most important events in the 21st-century Korean entertainment industry,' while Liner emphasized the social impact and symbolism of his courageous confession, stating, 'The world didn't change because Hong Seok-cheon appeared; rather, the world changed because he said those words.'
'Get Out', 'Samjin Group English TOEIC Class', and 'Oasis' are among the various works bold enough to confront discrimination and prejudice, and there is growing interest and anticipation for the main broadcast of 'Life is a Movie', which will deeply analyze the social messages conveyed through these films.
Meanwhile, the hidden story of Hong Seok-cheon, who showcases his multifaceted charm as a broadcaster and actor, will be revealed. Although he passed the KBS public comedian exam along with Kim Sook, he stated, 'After just two months, I realized this path was not for me,' explaining why he left comedy to pursue acting.
In this context, Geojieob humorously remarked, 'I was wondering why he appears everywhere,' referencing Hong Seok-cheon's cameo roles in various works, from 'Number 3' to 'The Ugly Duckling'.
Meanwhile, when Geojieob mentioned a particular work, Hong Seok-cheon expressed surprise, saying, 'I guess you were quite interested in me,' raising curiosity about which work left a deep impression on the film critic.
'Life is a Movie,' featuring actor Hong Seok-cheon who bravely confronted the world's prejudices with his courageous confession, will air on the 16th at 11:05 p.m. on KBS1.
[OSEN]