Broadcaster Lee Hwi-jae returned to broadcasting after about four years amid multiple controversies and criticisms, once again appearing before the public. However, views on his comeback remain sharply divided. It remains to be seen whether he can regain public trust after conveying his sincerity through tears.
Earlier, on the 21st episode of Immortal Songs, the second part of the late Kim Kwang-seok's 30th anniversary special was aired, and the teaser released at the end of the broadcast drew unexpected attention. It was because Lee Hwi-jae appeared.
In the preview video for the '2026 entertainment industry king of entertainment' special to be broadcast on the 28th, Lee Hwi-jae stepped onto the stage and cautiously opened his mouth, saying, "It has been a while; I am Lee Hwi-jae." It was a brief greeting, but immediately afterward his eyes reddened and he shed tears. With his head bowed as he tried to compose himself, the burden and complicated feelings accumulated during the long hiatus were fully conveyed. It was a display of the heavy emotions he had been carrying.
His expression and atmosphere were noticeably different from before. Unlike his appearance, which had not changed much from his more active days, his presence on stage showed strong signs of tension and caution. Voices suggested that the various public opinions and controversies that surfaced ahead of his comeback may have had an impact, and in fact online reactions were sharply divided after news of Lee Hwi-jae's appearance was announced. Some netizens directed criticism at the producers who booked him and reacted coldly, questioning the comeback itself. On the other hand, arguments in support continued, saying "He didn't commit a crime, so the excessive criticism is unwarranted," and that it was necessary to watch his performance.
This mood is also evident on viewer bulletin boards. On Immortal Songs' official board, posts opposing his appearance and opinions urging restraint from excessive criticism were posted simultaneously, revealing a sharp contrast in temperature. It appears that past controversies have hindered his comeback.
Previously, Lee Hwi-jae faced public criticism as controversies over his broadcast conduct and complaints about his wife Moon Jeong-won's upstairs noise and toy expenses continued. He effectively stopped broadcasting activities in 2022 and spent time with his family in Canada without issuing any significant official statements. During this time, retirement and immigration rumors surfaced, but explanations were later given that it was merely a temporary stay.
Perhaps for that reason, this comeback was also handled very cautiously. Lee Hwi-jae did not stand on the photo line on the day of recording and quietly entered the site via a separate route, and he reportedly did not participate in official schedules such as dinners after the recording. It is speculated that returning to the broadcast scene after a long hiatus posed considerable pressure for him.
The production team explained the reason for booking him, saying, "While preparing a variety show special, we naturally reached out to participants who had past album experience during the review process, and the appearance was arranged," and described it as "a choice considering recognition and popularity." However, they were cautious about portraying this appearance as a "comeback work." Some argued that the producers should have considered not only recognition but also public sentiment more carefully. In particular, when the PD mentioned the burden of Lee Hwi-jae's comeback image, some reacted with the sentiment, "Wasn't this a choice that forewarned controversy?"
Ultimately, this stage holds more meaning than a simple appearance. The key is how Lee Hwi-jae, who once again stands before the public after a long hiatus, will face viewers with what attitude and message, and whether he can wash away the accumulated negative image and regain trust. His comeback began with tears amid a situation in which he had particularly deep-seated animosity. Attention is focused on whether that sincerity can reach viewers and whether he can once again win the public's choice.
[photo] 'OSEN DB, Immortal Songs'
[OSEN]