Jeon Ji-hyun, first YouTube variety appearance in 28 years… it was a choice of loyalty but
'Actor Jeon Ji-hyun, 28 years after her debut, appeared on a YouTube variety show for the first time, slightly lowering her mystique. But as expectations were high, a variety of reactions expressing disappointment followed.
The video released on the 6th on the YouTube channel "King of Studying genius Hong Jin Kyung," titled "First YouTube appearance! Jeon Ji-hyun reveals her full life story from debut to marriage for the first time," was a major topic as Jeon Ji-hyun's first YouTube appearance.
This video was styled not as a talk show but as a "sketch in which sisters gather," and MC Nam Chang-hee, Hong Jin Kyung, Jang Young-ran and Lee Ji-hye each appeared as Jeon Ji-hyun's "older sisters," carrying on witty conversations.
On the show, Jeon Ji-hyun frankly shared everyday stories she had rarely revealed, from behind-the-scenes of her marriage to her morning routine and exercise habits. She said with a laugh, "My husband's nickname was 'Euljiro Jang Dong-gun.' I actually saw him and fell in love at first sight," and added, "I wake up at 6 a.m. every morning to exercise. Now my goal is health rather than dieting," revealing her strict self-care routine.
However, some viewers expressed disappointment, saying, "I wanted to hear more from Jeon Ji-hyun, but other cast members had too much screen time," and "It felt more like a sketch than a talk show, so it was hard to concentrate." In the comments section, one reaction read, "If it's a variety show after 28 years, a serious interview format might have suited her more." Unlike when Jennie appeared and had an honest conversation with Hong Jin Kyung, critics said that Jeon Ji-hyun's content felt somewhat scattered with Lee Ji-hye and Jang Young-ran appearing as guests.
On the other hand, positive reactions followed, such as "I didn't know Jeon Ji-hyun was this down-to-earth," "A loyal appearance possible because of Hong Jin Kyung," and "It was different and refreshing."
In response, Hong Jin Kyung directly clarified in a pinned comment on the video. She said, "Jihyun could have quietly done just a talk show, but she chose sketches saying 'I want to do variety,' she's a variety lover. Isn't she so lovable?" mentioning Jeon Ji-hyun's passion. She added, "Thanks to her, a fun piece of content was completed. Jihyun, thank you! Young-ran, Ji-hye, Chang-hee, you all worked hard."
Previously, since her debut in 1997 Jeon Ji-hyun had never appeared on a YouTube variety show. This appearance is reported to have been arranged out of loyalty to her close friend Hong Jin Kyung.
Hong Jin Kyung and Jeon Ji-hyun have maintained their friendship since they became acquainted through the SBS drama "My Love from the Star." Some commented with regret, "If it's the first variety appearance, wouldn't a traditional talk show like You Quiz on the Block have suited her better?" but responses followed such as "Choosing Hong Jin Kyung instead of Yoo Jae-suk is proof of true loyalty," and "It was more human because it wasn't perfect."
[photo] 'OSEN DB, YouTube channel'
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