tvN ‘Gugidong Friends’ broadcast capture
‘Asia Prince’ Jang Keun-suk captured both relatability and laughter.
On the April 10 premiere of tvN ‘Gugidong Friends’, Jang Keun-suk revealed his presence by radiating a sincere attitude and cheerful charm. ‘Gugidong Friends’ is an observational reality show that reflects the current of today's adults who like being alone but dislike loneliness, and the zeitgeist that pursues loose-knit bonds.
Jang Keun-suk appeared as the first resident of the Gugidong House, visibly tense. Introducing himself as “(living alone) single for 14 years,” he jokingly answered a question about his age with “I am the Year of the Rabbit. 99,” creating a playful mood. He drew empathy by revealing his reason for applying to move in: “I have so many things I want to do and so many dreams, but as even close friends started families, I suddenly found myself left alone.”
While looking around the house, Jang Keun-suk discovered the spacious, pleasant kitchen and exclaimed, “Everything I love is here,” cheering loudly. Then, upon meeting fellow resident Jang Do-yeon, he confessed an unexpected shyness“I am more reserved with strangers than people think” and “I am powering through right now”offering a contrasting charm. Later, in an interview, he shared his hope, “I would love it if we could shake off the day's stress together,” raising expectations for the co-living to come.
He also showed confidence in cooking, stepping up as the chef for the first meal with his housemates (friends you live with). The 18 kg giant octopus he prepared for his co-residents startled them, and Jang Keun-suk, too, was shocked at the sight of the live octopus, exclaiming, “The suckers are as big as my fist,” prompting laughter. At that moment, the octopus suddenly tried to escape from the box, and Jang Keun-suk, half out of fear and half out of responsibility, moved to contain the ‘Octopus commotion’, serving up enjoyment as if a variety-show god had descended. Even in an unexpected situation, his positive momentsnever losing his smilenaturally made viewers happy.
After the commotion settled, Jang Keun-suk skillfully processed the octopus, earning the title of ‘Jang-geum-seok’. Throughout the cooking, he flaunted extensive culinary knowledge and devoted himself to preparing a feast for the household. Swiftly setting out a full spread of octopus dishes, including octopus pot rice and octopus couscous, he smiled with satisfaction at the enthusiastic response from his housemates. Emphasizing the meaning of the program by saying, “You are truly family only when you share a meal,” his warm-hearted spirit makes one look forward to how it will shine in the community life ahead.
He not only actively eased the atmosphere but also showed consideration for unfamiliar co-residents, taking the lead in the show. Attention is focused on Jang Keun-suk in ‘Gugidong Friends’, who captivated viewers with a friendly, unassuming charm.
‘Gugidong Friends’, featuring Jang Keun-suk, airs every Friday at 8:35 p.m. on tvN.
The band CHIMIRO led by Jang Keun-suk will hold concerts starting with ‘2026 THE CHIMIRO IN SEOUL’ on the 11th, followed by Osaka, Japan, on the 16th, and Tokyo on May 21.
