Leaving the glamorous stage, Lim Young-woong embarked on a healing trip to Somodo Island in Wando County with his close friends, transforming into the 'Island Prince of No Pollution' and exuding charm. Even before the broadcast, Lim Young-woong's new side was anticipated, and the first episode of SBS's 'Island Prince Young-woong' recorded a viewership rate of 1.1% for ages 20 to 49 and 5.4% in the metropolitan area, not only ranking first in its time slot but also claiming the top spot in viewing ratings for variety shows among metropolitan households on Tuesdays.
On that day, Lim Young-woong traveled to Somodo Island in Wando County with the 'Scientist (Crazy for Science)' Gweodo and 'Iron Chef' Chef Lim Tae-hun. The combination of three close friends who know each other's 'true selves' grabbed attention. Lim Young-woong revealed the reason for their trip, saying, "I thought it would be nice to go somewhere remote and have serious discussions about tough topics as well as pleasant stories."
The three of them, who moved from early morning to catch the first ferry to the island, learned they had to cook for themselves with no supermarkets, convenience stores, or restaurants available, showing both anxiety and excitement. Whenever the opportunity arose, Gweodo, eager to talk about science, was responded to by Lim Young-woong, who said, "We did it more than five times in 30 minutes. Don't worry, those science talks will be edited out," revealing their 'close friend' vibe. Lim Young-woong, gazing at the sea from the boat, reminisced, saying, "I used to attend cruise events a lot during my unknown days, and this brings back many memories."
Upon arriving on the island, the young men struggled up steep slopes and stairs that even their luggage couldn't be pulled up, groaning, but they admired the view in front of a house that embraced the sea.
The islanders who 'welcomed' Lim Young-woong ran out barefoot, embracing him warmly and showing joy, which brought smiles. After completing their village walk as a form of greeting, the three took a break due to exhaustion from their early morning schedule. Lim Young-woong expressed satisfaction, saying, "I usually have trouble falling asleep, but here I feel so comfortable that sleep came over me as soon as I lay down. I think my energy has been replenished."
Meanwhile, Gweodo gifted them friendship t-shirts featuring their characters represented by elements' symbols. Not only that, Gweodo's friend Lee Yi-kyung surprised them by joining as a 'surprise guest.' Arriving with a bundle of ingredients, Lee Yi-kyung made an easily accessible stove with bricks and demonstrated unexpected cooking skills, earning recognition as Lim Tae-hun's all-purpose assistant. However, after tasting the first pot rice made by 'Iron Chef' Lim Tae-hun, Lee Yi-kyung jokingly criticized, saying, "Is it because it's Chinese cuisine? The smoky flavor is great. It doesn't go away until the very end. I think our ancestors would spit it out if it were placed on their memorial tablets."
Gweodo started off by saying, "To enjoy the meat well, the Maillard reaction must occur," and he went on to share a wealth of scientific knowledge, but Lee Yi-kyung later remarked in an interview, "Was it the Neymar reaction?" showing he didn't remember anything, which elicited laughter.
In front of a lavishly prepared dinner table, Lim Tae-hun, feeling good, said to Gweodo, "Talk about science freely during dinner tonight," to which Lim Young-woong responded, "Hyung, do you want to sleep early today?"
Subsequently, against the backdrop of the sea, Lim Young-woong's song 'I Am HERO,' included in his second regular album and the main theme of 'Island Prince Young-woong,' was revealed, drawing attention.
The last segment of the broadcast showed Lim Young-woong struggling for his first-ever sea fishing experience. The four's heartfelt confessions late at night and Lim Young-woong's live from his room heightened anticipation. SBS's 'Island Prince Young-woong' airs every Tuesday at 9 p.m.
[Photo] SBS
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