Online community screenshot. Provided by MBC ‘Welcome, First Time in Korea?’

Paco, the ultimate lover of Korea, is embarking on a trip to Korea.

On the 6th, the production team of MBC every1 ‘Welcome, First Time in Korea?’ released a teaser video for Paco on his trip to Korea. Paco has been beloved among Korean tourists, who call him the ‘Eiffel Tower icon’. In particular, sightings of Paco have continued to circulate online, and a story spread widely that he touts by shouting, "When a Korean passes by, 'Korean 10 euros, Japanese 15 euros'", drawing huge attention.

The released teaser opens with Paco in front of the Eiffel Tower, captured by the cameras of countless tourists. In this clip, which already went viral on social media, he pinpoints the distinctive Korean intonation and emotional beats, playfully striking up conversations with visitors. Amazed by his language ability and affability, users reacted explosively, saying things like ‘He must have been Korean in a past life’ and ‘Where did he learn that uniquely Korean cheekiness?’, and requests poured in to see ‘Paco on ‘Welcome, First Time in Korea?’’.

Next, Paco’s sincere feelings for Korea come through, making ears perk up. In an interview, Paco confesses, “I feel deep love when Koreans shout ‘Paco!’ to me. For me, Korea is love itself,” and adds, “That is why I truly want to see Korea with my own eyes.”

Photo courtesy of MBC ‘Welcome, First Time in Korea?’

Having arrived in Korea as he wished, Paco enjoys the country for real. Donning a gonryongpo and learning the pansori piece ‘Sarangga’, he also puts to full use in the market the know-how he honed selling keyrings in front of the Eiffel Tower. Shouting, "Pick one, pick one" and "Grab it, quick!", Paco exudes the aura of a seasoned vendor, sending anticipation for his breezy travelogue soaring.

On top of that, friends traveling with Paco appear, adding to the fun. Equally proud of their ‘love for Korea’, they visit a Korean karaoke room, shake tambourines, and deliver a flawless rendition of ‘Jjiniya’ by Young Tak, turning the place into a frenzy. Curiosity is mounting over what kind of ‘ultimate love-for-Korea’ travel story Paco and his friends will present.

Meanwhile, the real Korea that Paco will experience, and the cheerful journey of the three friends, can be seen on Thursday, March 19 at 8:30 p.m. on MBC every1 ‘Welcome, First Time in Korea?’.