Comedian Park Na-rae boosted both the program's fun and immersion as the MC of "National No. 1."
On the night of the 3rd, MBC's Chuseok special National No. 1 featured farmers from the nation's top three hanwoo regions—Hongseong in Chungnam, Anseong in Gyeonggi and Jeju—engaging in fierce pride-driven competition for the title of Korea's best hanwoo.
Dressed elegantly in hanbok to match the Chuseok mood, Park Na-rae led the atmosphere with her unique friendly wit and bright energy, breathing life into the program. She also drew praise by visiting barns herself to feed the cattle, showing solidarity with the farmers' hard work. True to her reputation as a leading worker in the entertainment industry, she worked up a sweat while deftly handling barn tasks, drawing attention.
Above all, what captured viewers' hearts was Park Na-rae's vivid taste expressions. Watching Hongseong hanwoo sizzle on an extra-large grill, she revealed her excitement, saying "my heart is racing," and after tasting the tenderloin she marveled, "It's as soft as tuna. It's hands down the best meat I've eaten," then collapsed to a sit as if her legs had lost strength with a reaction that seemed about to bring her to tears. After eating the sirloin, she tossed out the witty line "the meat juices are water-bomb level," turning the scene into a sea of laughter. Park Na-rae's trademark real expressions were enough to stimulate the salivary glands of not only the 100-person judging panel but also viewers in front of their TVs.
Her performance left a strong impression even on gourmet groups. Chef Lee Won-il said, "I think food should be violent when shown, and this video was violent," clicking his tongue, and creator Mimiminuu also praised it, saying, "This was a video that could promote the entire city of Hongseong beyond just taste." Park Na-rae did more than simply describe flavors; she effectively amplified the value and appeal of the region's hanwoo.
In the end, the Hongseong team, accompanied by Park Na-rae, won first place in pre-voting, tied for second in the midterm vote, and took first place in the final blind taste test, being selected as "National No. 1 Hanwoo." Thanks to Park Na-rae's apt humor, savvy hosting and delicate taste descriptions, the tension of the competition came alive more interestingly, and viewers were able to enjoy both the rich fun and emotion befitting a holiday special.
Meanwhile, the Chuseok special National No. 1, with Park Na-rae as MC, will meet viewers again on the 8th with the "rice" episode.
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