'Welcome, first time in Korea?' reopened with a refreshed look and kicked off with an energetic first recording.
At 8:30 p.m. on the 19th, MBC Every1's 'Welcome, first time in Korea?' returns after retooling. Expanding the format beyond the "host invitation" method so that any foreigner who loves Korea can be the star of the trip, 'Welcome, first time in Korea?' selected Paco, the "Eiffel Tower's celebrity," as its first protagonist. Meanwhile, the recently held first recording was said to have been full of pleasant laughter and excitement, raising expectations.
The 180-degree transformed studio was the first thing on set to grab the cast's attention. With a detailed set that looked as if an airport had been transplanted, hosts Kim Joon-hyun and DinDin repeatedly marveled, "It really feels like we're at an airport," and, "We came to record, but it feels like we're going on a trip."
The chemistry between reunited original hosting duo Kim Joon-hyun and DinDin remained the same.
Kim Joon-hyun, who was recently embroiled in an unexpected attitude controversy over a commute video that was said to have disrespected fans, played a solid veteran role. He reportedly led the atmosphere on set with a steady presence and his characteristic relaxed hosting. Returning original member DinDin said, "It feels like I'm back home," and injected energy with his trademark witty banter. The two displayed such seamless chemistry that the long hiatus felt meaningless, bringing laughter to the set.
Also, the trio of French experts who will richly interpret Paco's journey, the show's first travel protagonist, exceeded expectations. Among them, Professor Jeong Il-young, a trending figure who appeared on Chimchakman's YouTube channel and surpassed 6 million views, entertained the studio with his witty delivery and provided erudite and fascinating explanations of French culture, turning the studio into a sea of laughter.
In addition, Fabien, who recently announced that he obtained a 'tourist interpretation guide' certification, appeared on the show for the first time in a year and a half, delighting viewers. Saying he had devoted himself to study for the past year, he showed knowledge of history and culture deeper than that of Koreans, adding depth to Paco's trip.
Robin, who married last year and became a "new husband," also joined in a more relaxed mood. Fabien and Robin humorously acknowledged of protagonist Paco, "We used to be the most famous French people in Korea, but now we seem to have been outshined by Paco," and they added laughs to the recording by pointing out sharp cultural differences that only French people would notice.
With a vivid sense of being on a trip together and the French experts' precise explanations of cultural differences, MBC Every1's 'Welcome, first time in Korea?' becomes even more exciting and will premiere on Thursday, March 19, at 8:30 p.m.
[Photo] OSEN DB, 'Welcome, first time in Korea?'
[OSEN]