Original subtitles

(MBC Dream Center in Ilsan, July 17)

(A heavy suitcase in one hand,)

(dressed in a chic black suit)

(They're dressed up from head to toe with makeup on.)

- I haven't been here in a while. - In a long time.

(What are we doing today in a suit?)

We filmed many opening segments here.

We shot lots of programs.

- This is how it changed. - I see.

There's a convenience store too.

(This opening is unfamiliar, including the outfit and location.)

The reason we're wearing suits.

It all began with a comment from Haha.

We could say you sacrificed yourself.

That's right.

(Celebrities who are...)

(well-known but not popular.)

(Haha's personal list of non-popular celebrities)

(Candidate 1: film director Jang Hang Jun)

(Candidate 2: DinDin, Candidate 3: Tukutz)

(Candidate 4: Park Myung Soo)

(Candidate 5: Jee Seok Jin)

(If you can't accept that result?)

(A shout-out to all non-popular celebrities)

Haha shot a ball into the air...

- and built up on it. - Yes.

- You actually named names. - Yes.

- People began to react to it. - Yes.

I heard from Han Sang Jin.

But we concluded...

that Sang Jin wasn't even famous.

Sang Jin...

- He's adequately known. - Sang Jin...

enjoys just being mentioned.

- That's right. - So...

I'm sorry, Sang Jin.

- You're doing well. - Apparently,

Sang Jin contacted us to say he was willing to appear.

As you just said, we decided he's not even famous yet.

He needs to try a bit harder.

Therefore, Sang Jin...

- is out. - He's out.

About Myung Soo.

A lot of people are arguing that he's on your list.

"Park Myung Soo is popular."

"Why would you say he's not popular?"

If he were popular, he shouldn't be so lost right now.

- But why... - He's lost.

Why do you and Myung Soo both say the other looks lost?

- Why is that? - He's lost.

He's wandering aimlessly, but he says he's following a path.

- Is he? - To me,

it looks like he's lost in a maze.

- We didn't show everything, - Right.

but the two of them...

continuously criticized and mocked each other.

(You're well-known, but you're not popular!)

(You're even worse!)

(That goes for you too! You're not popular at all!)

(Get lost!)

(You sit in a corner!)

(They wouldn't stop dissing each other all day.)

- We say that because we're close. - That's right.

Anyway, I think this episode, with this kind of content,

will help you heal.

- Do you? - Yes.

We're not saying they're famous, but not popular.

The level of their fame doesn't match...

- their level of popularity. - Right.

Simply put,

- they don't have a huge fanbase. - Right. That's it.

People like them, but aren't crazy about them.

- Like this. This isn't the case. - That's not it.

To build my fanbase, I've been livestreaming often these days.

How is it? Did your fanbase get bigger?

Hyun Suk watched my livestream too.

Hyun Suk came in and said, "You're popular."

- So my fans shouldn't hide. - How many people were watching?

When I started watching it, there were about 500 people.

- It was toward the end. - That's not a lot of people.

- I started with 3,000 people. - Gosh. You know what?

- I started with 3,000 people. - That's lame. Don't say that.

I only need one viewer. I'll be honest.

Don't lie. Imagine only 1 of the 500 people stayed.

What's the point then? You can't even cover...

- Jae Seok. Seriously. - the electricity bill with that.

(His brutal honesty hurts the representative's feelings.)

So this is a club for non-popular celebrities.

So we'll name it, NPCC, Non-Popular Celebrity Club.

We wanted to express...

- the utmost respect. - Yes.

So we're dressed in a suit.

The invitations are in this briefcase.

- Yes. - So we'll meet them in person,

test out the waters with them, and deliver the invitations.

If three or more celebrities agree to join the club,

the NPCC...

- will indeed hold a meeting. - Right.

So, the NPCC...

What?

- It's Yoon Seok. Hello. - Yoon Seok.

(Has the first candidate of the NPCC shown up?)

(An unusually tall and skinny man in a suit)

(Smirking)

(The new representative of the Bony Family, Joo Woo Jae)

(Lee Yi Kyung, the man with good-for-nothing muscles)

(The younger members dressed up just like the older ones.)

Gosh, they look great.

- It's Yoon Seok. - My gosh.

- Hello. - Yoon Seok.

Seriously.

- How could you be so mean? - How could you be so mean?

- Come here. - What are you doing without us?

We weren't excluding you guys.

It's called the NPCC.

It's the Non-Popular Celebrity Club.

Haha was the one who came up with this idea.

- So are we really doing this? - I see.

- Yes, we are. - My gosh. Yes.

Actually, look no further. I'm one of them too.

- No, you're not. - You're popular.

- You're popular. - Hey, Park Min Hwan.

- You... - He's so popular.

- hold fan-meets. - Yes.

What's the turnout at your fan-meets?

This year's venue had 2,000 seats.

- You sold all the tickets, right? - Then this is crazy.

- You're a superstar. - You're a star.

My position is actually iffy.

How many people watch your livestreams?

I at least get about 2,000 people.

- See? You're a superstar too. - Yes.

- That makes you a superstar. - He starts with 3,000 people...

and ends with 500.

Why would you say it like that?

Why would you say I started with 3,000 people?

I can get them to stay, though.

- Exactly. - This is impressive.

How come you haven't been doing any livestreams recently?

Because you watch it.

- When you started watching, - It's...

- you ruined my livestream. - Besides, as for fashion,

once I started to say...

- he's been copying my outfits, - Yes.

I guess it's hard for you to do a livestream about fashion.

- It demotivated me. - Right.

- So you're up to something else. - Definitely.

Didn't you wear this outfit...

on "You Quiz on the Block" two weeks ago?

- I did. - When did he wear this?

- You startled me. - Bring me a photo as evidence.

- You startled me. - And...

- I like this kind of pattern. - He's sensitive.

Is today Cosplay Day?

- Right? - This is crazy.

(He plays along and tries to mimic Jae Seok's facial features.)

Gosh, that punk. Seriously.

(He hates it, but they're starting to resemble one another.)

Hold on. I should give Reporter Jun Ha a call.

Isn't he in San Francisco now?

- I bet he's waiting for it. - Hold on.

I should call Reporter Jun Ha.

But why is he so busy?

Can he stay in the US, so we can do this every week?

(Calling)

Gosh, he's not answering his phone.

- Hello. - San Francisco.

- He answered it. - Hello?

Hey. Gosh, now...

Where are you, Reporter Jun Ha?

Hello. I'm at a supermarket now. Give me a second.

I see. Then call me once you're out.

I'll call you back. I'm sorry.

You're trying to save money on international calls.

- Wasn't that so obvious? - I...

- It's an international call. - So he couldn't wait a few seconds.

- It's an international call. - Gosh. Seriously.

- He can't talk on the phone now. - Then...

- we could have waited. - He was in a public space.

Leaving the supermarket wouldn't have taken long.

- He wanted to save money. - You could've waited.

I hung up before it went over 1 minute. It was only 43 seconds.

(His frugal side is shown through the international call.)

- You're something else. - You ended it before a minute...

- was up. - Hey.

- He's calling me back. - He's calling.

Reporter Jung Jun Ha.

Hello. This is Reporter Jung Jun Ha coming to you from the US.

- Where are you, Reporter Jun Ha? - Seriously.

I'm in front of a supermarket...

called Target in Seattle.

What are you doing at the supermarket?

I only have a few days left before I go back to Korea.

So I wanted to buy a few bags of snacks.

- That's why I'm here. - Ask him what he's been up to.

You were in New York and then went to San Francisco.

- Yes. That's right. - Now, you're headed to Seattle?

Yes, I'm in Seattle now.

- In Seattle... - I'm going to Vancouver tomorrow.

Why are you going to Vancouver?

It also has to do with my business.

- Gosh, seeing how busy he is... - I see.

There have been many news articles since our phone call.

Right. There were a lot of comments too.

- Did you and Myung Soo... - Yes.

talk on the phone after the show?

No. So, regarding Myung Soo, let me say this again.

He really cursed out your program excessively.

He said he'd never star on the show even if he was asked.

- But he starred on the show... - He worked really hard.

- and filmed a legendary episode. - Yes.

- He really worked hard. - Anyway,

- complete your journey... - Yes.

- in good health. - Thank you.

Please do an acrostic poem with Seattle.

- The last syllable is hard. - He's in trouble.

Pardon?

S.

So a mother-in-law did...

"Mother-in-law."

- A. - "Ay, you."

A thing in front of the kids.

"A thing in front of the kids."

T.

Taking out the dentures.

- I'm sorry. - He still made a sentence, though.

- All right, Reporter Jun Ha. - Yes.

- He failed. - Hang up.

We'll wrap up the acrostic poem here on a disappointing note.

Okay. Sorry!

- Thank you, Reporter Jun Ha. - That was impressive.

This was Reporter Jung Jun Ha, coming to you from Seattle.

Thank you!

- I knew it. Jun Ha... - By the way,

he's there on business, but checking all the comments?

- He read all the comments. - There were many news articles.

- He's happy about it. - Reporter Jun Ha is happy.

He's indeed happy.

All right. Today's theme is the NPCC.

Let's do our best today. So we'll meet...

- our possible candidates... - Yes.

one at a time...

- and give out the invitations. - Let's revive their careers.

- That's what we'll do today. - Yes.

- Let's go. - Where are we going?

(Non-Popular Celebrity Club)

Who lives around here?

What should be our cover? Like the purpose of our visit.

So we're visiting these people because we think...

they are a good match for our club after listening to Haha.

But they didn't agree to join the club yet.

So they won't know why we're coming to them.

They don't know.

You know what? This is for all of you, agents.

- Let me remind you again. - Okay.

We're going there...

- to deliver our invitation. - Yes.

Don't say things that might provoke them.

- Let's not do that. - Of course, not.

Try not to provoke them.

Don't console them either.

- Don't console them either. - Our attempt to console them...

- will make them angrier. - That's more infuriating.

They're somewhat recognized by the viewers.

- They're famous. - Don't hurt their pride.

- Of course. - Yes.

One more thing. It's not that they're not popular.

- Let me clarify this again. - They're not as popular.

- Their level of... - It's not proportional.

- Given their level of fame... - It's not just proportional...

- Given their level of fame. - compared to their level of fame.

I'm going to build my own fanbase now.

- Let's get out. - Let's go.

Let's get going.

I see someone sitting down. I don't know who it is, though.

Who is that?

(A subtle aroma of tea fills...)

(the tranquil teahouse.)

It's nice that there are people who want to see me.

(A man is having tea with anticipation.)

Who is that?

(They follow the vibe of a non-popular celebrity and enter.)

(Chuckling)

Oh, there.

(The first candidate, Heo Kyeong Hwan)

My gosh, Kyeong Hwan.

(Mimicking Kyeong Hwan's tone of voice)

- What's the theme today? - Oh, there.

- Look. We're saying hello. - Hello.

(Candidate 1: Comedian Heo Kyeong Hwan)

(I can live my life, smiling.)

(He's been generating catchphrases for 19 years.)

(The VVIP guest on variety shows)

Actually, you're here...

(He's famous, but doesn't say no to subbing for other people.)

(Unfortunately, he's not as popular.)

- Nice to see you, Kyeong Hwan. - Why do you look so nervous?

- You're so cool. I'm a fan. - By the way,

I'm uncomfortable because you're all dressed in a suit.

Well, you're sparing us some time from your busy schedule.

So we wanted to be as polite as possible.

- We wanted to be respectful. - So we tried to dress up for you.

- It's our way of showing respect. - Had I known, I would've worn...

- a dress shirt and so on. - My gosh.

- No. - Are you sure this is okay?

- Your skin has gotten better. - Yes.

- Yes. - You're so handsome.

(Perfect teamwork)

(He faces a barrage of compliments without knowing why.)

- By the way, - Yes.

I think he's perfect for this.

- I see. - Yes, I agree.

- Well... - He's the perfect candidate...

for our project.

- What... - We're here to ask you something.

I see. You're asking me for something?

- Of course. - Yes.

- You can decide later. - Is that so?

You have the upper hand.

- I see. - No.

What did they tell you when they invited you to the show?

I was told there were people who wanted to see me.

So I got ready since morning.

- It rained a lot this morning. - Yes.

I weathered the rain and came here.

I had about five cups of tea while waiting for you.

- Have some tea. - I'm sorry.

(He finally gets to share the tea with some people.)

- This tea is great. - Hold on.

- I had five cups of it. - Thank you.

It must be herbal or traditional tea.

- Yes. - All right. To Heo Kyeong Hwan!

- To Kyeong Hwan. Cheers! - Cheers.

- He's perfect for this. - My gosh.

Does drinking this tea mean...

I'm agreeing to do something?

- No. - No.

By the way, you changed your hairstyle.

You only pushed up half of your bangs.

Yes. There's a reason for it. I used to wear my bangs down.

But I saw a lot of stray hairs.

- I took care of them to look neat. - You look great.

- You're handsome. - Right.

(Feeling dazed)

By the way, something made me realize...

- how popular he was lately. - Okay.

- He was on "Morning Chatting Club." - Yes.

- He was the only guest. - Right.

Among comedians, I was the first guest...

- Jae Seok was the first one... - to star alone after Jae Seok.

- Right. - Seriously.

- There was a lot of pressure. - You know what? He's the best.

- Jae Seok always says this. - Right.

He's funny, has many catchphrases, and is athletic.

And who can be this entertaining for a long opening segment?

I'm sorry to interrupt. Are you here to sell me insurance policies?

- No. - Gosh, not at all.

Do I have to buy four policies?

- No. - No.

- This felt like a pre-sales pitch. - Yes.

It looked like we were here to sell insurance policies, right?

But that's not the case at all.

I was told some people were looking for me.

They only told me that big stars were looking for me.

- You're the only guest here. - Am I?

- Yes. - All right.

- Let us begin now. - Yes.

Let's stay focused...

- and begin our discussion. - Okay.

(Opening up his profile)

(Non-Popular Celebrity Club)

(Name: Heo Kyeong Hwan, Physical features: 169cm, 70kg)

(Date of birth: February 16, 1981, Agency: TN Entertainment)

Your name is Heo Kyeong Hwan.

- Yes. - That's your real name, right?

- That's my real name. - Okay.

- Which clan are you from? - I'm from the Gimhae Heo clan.

- The Gimhae Heo clan. - Yes.

Your nickname is Heo Barbie.

- What's this about? - Heo Barbie?

Oh, that? Well,

comediennes thought I reminded them of a Barbie doll.

- Heo Barbie? - Yes. Like a Barbie doll...

- Because he's handsome. - They thought you were cute.

Back then, senior comediennes...

- like Jung Kyoung Mi... - "You're here, Barbie."

"Heo Barbie is here." They used to say that.

- And he has a good body too. - Yes, back then...

You majored in Event Planning at Busan Arts College?

- Yes. - I see.

And your MBTI type is ISFJ.

- Yes. That's what the results said. - You're an introvert?

- Yes. - I don't think you are.

- You don't look like an introvert. - You're the feeling type?

I'm an introvert. So...

What do you do on your days off?

You do Jujutsu, right?

- Yi Kyung. - Yes.

Why would you ask your question like that?

- What do you mean? - "What do you do on your days off?"

I'm curious, though.

- So you're an introvert... - By the way,

why did you set up the seating like this?

- It could've been more natural. - This is like a hearing.

- Is this a hearing or what? - Right.

- "Answer it!" - I mean...

- I didn't know you were an F type. - Are you an introvert or extrovert?

- You were an F type? - Why are you an introvert?

- I'm sorry. But it's uncomfortable. - I knew he was a planner.

Jang Won Young's positive mindset has been a recent sensation.

- Lucky Vicky. - After the Lucky Vicky trend,

his mindset drew attention too, although it wasn't a big sensation.

- On "Pinggyego." - Right.

- He talked about it on "Pinggyego." - Yes.

- Let's do it. - When he was on "Gag Concert,"

he made a lot of mistakes with his act.

- It took the longest time. - He made seven mistakes.

- It took about 30 minutes. - My gosh.

- Right. - When the audience was there?

To make it worse, I was in the skit when my training wasn't over.

I got in only after 1.5 months when it should've been 3 months.

- He was brought in too soon. - Yes.

- They called me... Right. - That would develop a trauma.

My line was, "Have a blast. But come home before the sun sets."

It's not a funny line, but it's not a hard line to deliver.

- Right. That's it. - But why did you mess it up?

It's not a funny line.

- It's not a hard line to say. - It's not hard either.

"Have a blast."

"I'm sorry." After that point, I couldn't remember a thing.

That must've been pure suffering.

- You have to experience it... - You can't remember it then.

to know how that feels.

You must experience it to know.

Seriously. I started to sweat after the third take.

My sweat wasn't dripping from top to bottom.

It was flying off my face.

- I'm serious. - Stop exaggerating your story.

(Turning down any exaggeration)

- Come on, Kyeong Hwan. - Seriously.

- How... - It was flying off?

- So you were sweating profusely. - Yes, I was sweating like a pig.

So at my sixth take...

"Have a blast."

"But come home before the sun sets." I managed to say it.

- Then I had to say the next line. - Right.

But people started to clap.

- Because you did it. - But that startled me.

- So I forgot the next line. - Darn it.

- So at the end... - At the seventh take,

I couldn't remember it again.

- My gosh. - But the audience...

memorized the lines.

"Come home before the sun sets!"

I was like, "Right." I said the line then.

- I'm grateful to the audience. - But...

That's comforting.

After making seven mistakes that day,

- I walked to the Yeouido Park. - I get it.

- You must've felt dejected. - Yes.

The weather was great that day.

- So I looked at the sky. - That would drive me crazier.

Even if I didn't show up the next day,

no one would reach out to me.

They would all know why.

Then a thought crossed my mind.

- I thought, "Wait." - "Wait."

- "Isn't this my training period?" - Yes.

"My three months weren't up."

"But the director overestimated my talent."

"So he inserted me to the show when I wasn't ready."

- "Technically, it's not my fault." - It was the director's fault?

The director overestimated my talent.

- It's his fault. - Right.

- Hey. - This is it.

- This is what I'm talking about. - This is touching.

- Hey, I love your mindset. - His mindset will dominate...

the second year of 2025 after the Lucky Vicky mindset.

- He has a point. - This is a positive mindset for me.

- It makes sense. - It's not his fault.

He wasn't ready, but the director put him in.

- That's it. - It's Heoky Vicky.

Seriously.

For this to encourage people, there should be one more story...

- other than this. - My gosh.

What about when you were on "Running Man?" You were funny.

Whenever you were on "Running Man," you...

Hear me out.

I've been on that show countless times.

If you combine all of my clips,

they won't be long enough to make up one episode.

(They won't be long enough to make up one episode.)

They're not enough to make up one episode.

During the opening segment,

he did a series of his special talents...

- for three minutes. - Here's the thing. Kyeong Hwan...

- always kills it at the opening. - He does.

I thought, "Kyeong Hwan will kill it today."

But after the opening segment...

When we headed out on the bus, he stopped talking.

This is the closing segment for Kyeong Hwan.

- "I'm sorry about today." - Right.

He's so funny during the opening segment.

- What could be the reason? - Why is that?

He's shy around other people.

- Listen. The thing is... - He sweats a lot too.

I'm an introvert because I'm sensitive.

- When someone starts to bother me, - You're a sensitive introvert.

- I start to feel small. - I see.

I told myself that...

- I shouldn't let it bother me. - Okay.

For example, Jong Kook wanted to tease me.

So he said, "Hey, what you said was lame."

That's when I'd start to feel small.

- Of course. - Yes.

But I had been criticized way too many times.

So I told myself I wouldn't let it bother me.

So one day, I joined the show,

ready to take anything they threw at me.

(What happened then?)

Hwang Hee Chan joined the show that day.

- Hee Chan was on the show then. - Hee Chan was on the show.

(What a tough break.)

I got less airtime than the soccer ball.

(The soccer ball was on TV more than him.)

Then how did you turn this situation into something positive?

It was crystal clear. This was Hee Chan's fault.

- It was his fault. - I was on the show with a big star.

- So it was his fault. No. - It wasn't your fault?

The director who cast us together was to blame too.

- "Why invite us together?" - Right.

- "Why expect so much from me?" - "I should've been invited..."

- "to the episode I would excel in." - Right.

Once he was on the show, it didn't matter who else was on it.

It's hard to beat Hee Chan.

- Of course. - The main guest of the show then...

- Of course. - I'm grateful to the other guests.

- But Hee Chan had to be the star. - Of course.

So that day, I went home without performing so well.

By the way, look at the cameraman behind him.

The cameraman is...

- taping the leaf on the window. - What's he doing?

Is this "The Last Leaf" or what?

Doesn't that remind you of my life?

What's the cameraman doing?

It's a sorrowful scene.

Why does he keep filming him between the leaves?

You're on "Mom's Diary."

Yes, he is.

- What other shows are you on? Yes. - Tell us your regular shows.

It's just "Mom's Diary."

But you're a recurring member, right?

Yes. I star on it whenever they ask.

- But my mom stars on it regularly. - That's...

- She stars on it regularly? - My mother stars on it regularly.

How come I always see you whenever I watch the show?

At one point, I decided to take it easy.

I regularly star on only one show every few weeks.

But I'm on other shows whenever I'm asked like today.

So I'm proud of myself for that.

- But let's clarify this. - Okay.

This is an official meeting. So we must discuss this.

- Don't get the wrong idea, though. - Okay.

You said you only starred on one show every few weeks.

This means...

- you don't have any regular show. - You have no regular shows.

- You're on it from time to time. - You film one show once in a while.

- I'm sorry to say this. - But we must be precise about it.

- We must clear it up. So... - We must be clear about it.

we wanted to discuss everything without hiding anything.

My spine ached just now.

- I'm sorry. Okay. - I just got a spinal spasm.

- So I have no regular shows. - You have no regular shows.

- By the way, - We must be precise.

you guys might not know.

He started his own YouTube channel.

- Yes. I did. - You started your own channel?

- It's "Curious Heo Kyeong Hwan." - He did.

So I've been running it...

- for two months. - The golf videos...

- Hold on. "Curious..." - "Heo Kyeong Hwan."

Did you talk about poop and pee with your fling on a trip?

No. I was reviewing an episode.

- Right. It's his show. - What?

What's Ok Soon from "Trouble Travel" doing on your show?

I reviewed one of the episodes.

- I see. - You did a review video?

- Since I don't have regular shows, - It's my regular show.

- so... - You did a reaction video of it?

Yes. I've been staying home regularly.

- I stay at home regularly. - Then...

- you have a YouTube channel. - I do review videos.

He's got 1 regular show and 1 semi-regular show.

- Yes, that's it. - He's got his own channel.

- It's 1.5 shows. - Anyway, you must maintain...

(Suddenly getting a reality check)

- The CEO in his 40s... - Kyeong Hwan.

- Don't try to hold my hand. No. - I...

Kyeong Hwan.

(I'll pass on the consolation.)

You might not have a huge fan base of hardcore fans.

But there are people who admire you.

- Right? - There are a lot of people.

- It's a true story. - Yes.

He and I filmed a show together in 2019.

I used to go to his car and hang out with him.

I picked out a few of my favorite comedy skits he did.

I showed them to him all the time.

There are people who love his comedy skits...

- just like me. - I see.

Kyeong Hwan. To me, you're a superstar.

Of course.

- Same here. - How could I only rely on you?

- You're 1 of 50 million people. - Listen.

I'm saying you have fans who don't actively show their support.

- You're everyone's fan. - Right.

You're my favorite singer. He's my favorite comedian.

- Is that so? - Really?

- Yes. - It's making me feel better.

- Our popularity is kind of weak. - Right.

- We can sense it. - The commoners can feel that.

- "Commoners?" - Right.

- Being experimental... - Commoners in terms of popularity.

- Commoners like us... - Right.

- can sense that it's weak. - We can sense our weak popularity.

- We assume the helper position. - But...

I like commoners.

- Celebrity the Commoner. - Commoners...

Anyway, you can sense that we like you, right?

- Of course. - Yes.

Earlier, you said, "You're popular, aren't you?"

But this is the thing with people who like me.

They only like me when I'm being funny.

- Let's say I was funny on a show. - Okay.

"I knew he'd be funny." "You're the best, Kyeong Hwan."

- They'd give you comments. - "You're the best."

- They'd compliment me a lot. - Right.

- Let's say I was timid on a show. - Okay.

- "I knew he would flop." - They would leave comments.

"No, you were funny." "Don't be timid." But they don't.

You need to be comforted and encouraged.

So they always start with, "I knew it."

They always say that when he's funny and when he's not funny.

(Shutting his eyes)

Do you have a fan club?

- I used to have one. - Okay.

But the president and vice president had a fight. So it got disbanded.

But after fighting,

- one of them should have stayed. - Right.

- But they both left the fan club. - They left the club.

So I didn't have a fan club then.

They must've said, "You can keep it!"

I know that I have some fans, hiding here and there.

But they aren't showing themselves at all.

How come you and I say the same thing?

- The things you said... - I bet this happens to you.

You must get direct messages.

- Or when you're out, they say, - Yes.

"I'm a huge fan."

Have you asked, "Where have you been?"

- Right. - "Hang in there. Many of us are..."

- "rooting for you from far away." - Seriously.

Sometimes, people unconsciously say, "I used to be a fan."

- Right. Don't you ask them then? - "I used to be a fan."

- "But you're not one now?" Right? - My gosh.

(He can relate.)

"But you're not one now?"

(Only the two of them are having fun.)

- "You're not one now?" - Wait.

We're the only ones laughing.

This is insulting.

- How come it's only us laughing? - By the way,

- only you two laughed. - Right.

- Only you two laughed about it. - Only they could relate.

- This isn't a funny story either. - Only two of them could relate.

- Only these two laughed. - So...

Is this such a relatable story?

- Only they laughed. - I mean this is...

It wasn't that funny, though.

- It's our black comedy. - Is that so?

Kyeong Hwan, you're single, aren't you?

- Yes. - What is it like to be single?

Not many people contact me anymore.

- Really? - Yes.

My younger friends used to call me and say,

"Kyeong Hwan, let's have a drink tonight."

- It doesn't happen often. - Right.

"Kyeong Hwan, what are you doing this week?"

"Do you have any days off?"

- They're more cautious than before. - Right.

What do you say when they ask you if you have a day off?

"Let me check."

(Playing hard to get)

- While you're lying down? - "I'll check."

- At first... - I already know my schedule.

I know my schedule.

- You already know your schedule, - Exactly.

- but you want to check again. - I want to check.

Suddenly, it's driving me crazy.

Don't try to comfort Kyeong Hwan like that.

It's not what you think. I feel so...

- You're pretending to comfort him. - I'm not.

- Stop it. - I can totally empathize with him.

During the conversation, you keep saying,

"Oh, really?"

Don't try to cure yourself.

- I feel really... - Seriously.

- Anyway, Kyeong Hwan... - Yes?

Can you tell him to stop that?

My goodness.

He's really distracting me.

Is that so important?

Is he doing that to win some award?

Are you doing an exhibition?

- What's wrong with him? - What is he doing?

What's the matter with him?

You crazy punk!

(He's wearing a headset.)

He's crazy.

Be quiet.

(The peaceful perspective of a popular man)

Why is he determined to film Kyeong Hwan with the leaves?

Wouldn't that make me look like a bug?

- A silkworm. - On a leaf.

- A silkworm. - My bug-like life.

He's standing there because he doesn't want to film me.

- My back is on him. - Gosh, it's on Kyeong Hwan's face.

(He spilled cold water on Kyeong Hwan's profile.)

His face is completely wet.

- It's making me feel anxious. - Me too.

Seriously.

Goodness.

How could you... My goodness.

(Tearing off)

- Look at that. - I'm sorry.

You tore off my face.

My face is gone.

Isn't it a foreshadowing?

I only have one face. How could you tear it off?

- I apologize. - His face...

By the way,

thank you for coming...

- to spend time with us. - Are you wrapping it up suddenly?

(Speechless)

- On the other hand... - If there's an answer...

that you want, please send it to me.

I'll read it.

We met the perfect person for today.

You're our first client today.

- Am I? - You're the first one.

- That's better. - I want to be careful about this.

No matter how well we explain,

we're still very worried...

about how you will take this.

Either way, I'll be honest with you.

Did you watch our show last week?

(Did you watch our show last week?)

I don't watch the show unless I'm on it.

Right.

Even that response corresponds to today's theme.

You don't feel the need to watch the show...

- unless you're on it. - What's the point?

Last week, Haha...

Haha has been telling me...

- for a long time. - It's been a long time.

He says that he's famous,

but he's not popular.

(This must be it.)

All right. Kyeong Hwan?

Let us explain, Kyeong Hwan.

Who set up the fallen leaves?

Don't relate this to "The Last Leaf."

- Don't misunderstand. - It's not...

- That's not it. - Don't you dare play "I'm Firefly."

By Hwang Garam.

I thought I was

(The days he spent chasing fame passed by.)

Kyeong Hwan, this is...

- We're not talking about you. - Please don't misunderstand.

- Don't misunderstand. - Please don't.

I'm feeling dizzy.

Kyeong Hwan, we are...

- talking. - Talking.

- I'm listening. - All right.

Kyeong Hwan,

he's been telling me this for a long time.

This was my response.

- "You've got it wrong." - We're talking about me.

"You are famous,"

"but your popularity doesn't match your fame."

- And so... - Yes.

When Haha brought it up,

we decided to gather people like him. I mean...

- We wanted to reveal them. - Please listen.

This can be an opportunity to change those...

who aren't enthusiastic about you or your former fans...

to love you again.

- Can't you relate to it? - It's to boost our energy.

And so...

You have the choice.

(He opens the briefcase at good time.)

Goodness.

I give you this invitation.

The decision to participate is up to you.

There's one condition.

We'll meet a few more people after you.

We'll ask for their opinion.

If fewer than three people express interest,

this gathering won't take place.

- For now, - Read it.

- please read it. - Will you participate in this game?

He received it.

No.

It can't be helped if you don't accept it.

We won't judge you.

"You're famous, but your fan base isn't big."

(You're invited. You're famous, but your fan base isn't big.)

(Snorting)

"Non-Popular Celebrity Club."

(Flustered)

- That's... - The NPCC Special.

Here's what I'm afraid of.

(Inhaling)

I wonder if this special would...

create a buzz.

You have low self-esteem.

- Hey. - You shouldn't say that.

- What I meant was... - Hey.

- He told me... - You made it so obvious.

"You're not popular. Your fan base isn't big."

Compared to your fame.

All right.

- Please think about it. - Okay.

Thank you, Kyeong Hwan.

Take your time to think about it...

- Okay. - and contact us.

I cheer for you from the bottom of my heart.

My star comedian.

He's small yet precious.

(And that evening)

(He looks nervous for some reason.)

What is this about?

(He keeps fidgeting with his watch.)

(Jae Seok comes to see him.)

- It's been a long time. - Jae Seok.

- Please sit down. - Okay.

Thank you for your time. I know you're busy.

No problem.

(Tukutz of Epik High)

(The best hip-hop group in Korea, Epik High)

(The makers of hit songs who worked hard for 22 years)

(They've been loved consistently.)

(However, who's he?)

(Who's the man wiping the table next to Epik High?)

(He's misunderstood as the man wiping the table.)

(The one responsible for Epik High's 2-member theory)

(NPCC Candidate 2: Tukutz)

Today,

despite the midsummer heat, I put on a suit.

You must feel hot.

My manager told me,

"Jae Seok said that he must meet you today."

So many thoughts went through my head.

What were your thoughts?

I thought, "Should I free up every Thursday?"

"But I'm busy."

I'd be grateful if you could free up every Thursday.

When I heard that you wanted to see me,

I felt like I was summoned by the nation.

I must give it my all.

"Summoned by the nation?"

You're the Nation's Beloved Host.

My daughter asked me, "Where are you going today?"

She asked where I was going so suddenly.

I said, "I'm going to meet Yu Jae Seok."

She said, "Why?"

She was fascinated and wanted to know why.

"What business do you have with Yu Jae Seok?"

(Asking again)

I can see pride in his smile.

Recently,

you were on "Radio Star" with Tablo.

- Yes. - Right.

The public broadcast channel is the best.

- Really? - Yes.

- Did it bring any change? - People...

of different age groups recognize me.

I see.

Even female pharmacists recognize me.

Really?

I got a full medical checkup,

and they told me that I lack vitamin D.

I went to a pharmacy to buy some vitamin D.

The pharmacist said, "I enjoyed watching you on 'Radio Star.'"

Is it a pharmacy where you've been going for a while?

Yes. She asked for my autograph, and we took a photo together.

The public broadcast channels are the best.

Yes, appearing on music shows or doing concerts has...

no effect at all.

Why not?

I rarely get caught in the camera frame,

so it has no effect.

(Between two members singing with the audience)

(Tukutz)

(Tukutz's part is over in 2 seconds.)

You have to be on variety shows persistently.

Why?

I went to the same pharmacy after a few days,

- And? - but she didn't recognize me.

- You're lying. - It expires in a week.

- Stop lying. - I'm serious.

She recognized me,

but after a week, she no longer recognized me.

- Really? - You must appear persistently.

(Did you hear me?)

Here's my personal opinion.

You're good at singing.

You're also a good rapper.

You have enough skills.

During tours, I work hard.

- You do? - I work hard on stage.

Soon, we'll be going on a tour in Asia.

- A tour in Asia? - Yes.

- Really? - Yes.

Why are you surprised?

Shouldn't we go on a tour?

Right, I'm sorry.

Everyone is doing it. Why not us?

- Of course you can. - Yes.

- I'm sorry. - There he is.

You're late.

I was on a business trip.

Tukutz is going on a concert tour in Asia.

Really?

Yes.

Are you also going?

- Of course I am. - Oh, right.

- Then should I stay in Korea... - No.

- Hey, why you... - Should I stay in Korea...

I'm sorry, Jung Sik.

Should I perform in front of a drone?

- Or on Zoom? - No.

- Please don't misunderstand. - Calm down.

That's not what he meant, Jung Sik.

Epik High is popular enough...

to go on tours.

- I thought it was your concert. - As a solo artist?

No, we move as a group.

Together?

Your staff is larger than I thought.

For the public broadcasting channel.

I was surprised.

Tukutz brought about four people as his staff.

That's a lot.

I have a hair stylist, a manager,

a makeup artist,

and the makeup artist's assistant.

Can you pay all of them?

- He's so mean. - That's not what I mean.

This is the true face of our Nation's Beloved Host.

- We haven't seen you in a while. - Jung Sik.

- We haven't seen you in a while. - Right.

I was just saying.

Don't get hurt. Usually, things like this don't affect you.

I knew this would happen.

- It's not what you think. - It's not.

Aren't you going to the US soon?

Are you going there for work?

Tablo is at Stanford University right now.

And?

We decided to join him there.

Really?

Let's go to the historic site and see it with our own eyes.

(Snorting)

(When Tablo was going through a tough time about his school,)

(Tukutz kept that moment as the wallpaper on his phone.)

Why do you keep...

making fun of Tablo?

It's fun.

Hasn't it been about 15 years?

It's time to turn the painful memory into something humorous.

Has Tablo agreed with you...

and given you permission to mock him?

No.

I'm doing it because it's fun.

You think Tablo doesn't mock me?

I didn't tell the members about my appearance today.

Why not?

"You won't be able to say anything on the show."

"You can't do anything without me."

Tablo would...

That's my biggest fear.

Being laughed at by the members.

Gosh.

"You appeared on How Do You Play?, but you were edited and removed."

But you're a gem.

Jae Seok always said so.

- He's been good on variety shows. - Exactly.

Surprisingly, Jung Sik refused to be on variety shows.

- You refused. - Right.

The fame you gained made you snobbish.

It was when I was in my mid-20s.

Why did you do that?

I didn't want...

to waste my reputation.

(Oh, my)

I never stood out, and I always stayed in the back.

If I become a caricature or a fun character...

by appearing on variety shows,

people would assume that to be my role.

That's what I was afraid of.

You didn't do it on purpose.

I can roughly understand...

- how you felt. - Me too.

I've never talked to you about this.

Are you quite open-minded right now?

- Right now? - Yes.

Now, I'm open to every offer.

When I get invited, I accept almost all the time.

When I was on "Radio Star" recently,

I did everything that they asked. I danced.

- I showed my personal talent. - Of course.

As I get older, I get more shameless.

I have to admit.

I understand.

(Exchanging looks)

Why do you ask?

Actually,

this is why we came here today.

- Are you finally saying it? - Of course.

Haha created a list of names...

by himself.

We wanted to hold a gathering with people on the list.

So today,

please let us know if you're willing to participate.

Let me say this beforehand.

This won't work without you.

You're my key person.

This would be meaningless without you.

Will we be shooting every Thursday?

It's not every week. It's just Thursday.

(Jae Seok...)

- I wish it were every Thursday. - What?

We shoot every Thursday.

We shoot every week,

but we can't say that it's every week for Jung Sik.

We don't know what's going to happen.

Wait, could the gathering be about this?

You pointed me out specifically, so...

(Gulping)

"Who are you?"

- Gosh, no. - Oh, come on.

What's wrong with you?

There are Tablo and Mithra Jin, but who's that?

Who do you think we are?

- It can't be something positive. - That's not it.

We didn't call you for something like that.

Of course not.

There must be something behind their long introduction.

No, but we brought it up for a reason.

- You're a precious person. - Of course.

(Thinking)

I'd like to explain it this way.

This is what I would say.

Your fan base doesn't match your fame.

(He didn't understand.)

- How shall we put it? - He made it sound complicated.

I'll say it casually.

We recognize each other.

- You're famous but not popular. - That's not it.

What you said sounds more insulting.

Famous but not popular?

- No. - Hey.

- If I'm famous... - Don't misunderstand.

- Jung Sik, don't misunderstand. - That's me.

This was why I didn't want to come here with him.

This is stressing me out.

Jung Sik, please let me finish.

I recognize such people clearly.

Based on what?

So we brought it today.

This is information...

- There it is. - about Jung Sik.

What?

(Non-Popular Celebrity Club)

(Tukutz's Profile)

"Name, Kim Jung Sik."

There are many incidents related to Tukutz.

This has been said before.

In order to help a security guard...

In the article,

he was blurred in the photo.

(Tukutz who's stopping the violence)

(No one recognized him as Tukutz.)

They didn't know that he was a celebrity.

It's one of the incidents.

My photo also got blurred at an award ceremony.

(Blurred between Tablo and Mithra)

When my photo got blurred at the award ceremony,

- I was slightly offended. - Okay.

When my photo got blurred on the news,

I found it hilarious.

I thought, "I'll never get out of this."

When things like this happen a few times,

it makes excellent history.

I agree.

Jung Sik, weren't you often mistaken as Epik High's manager?

We were on our way...

to fly from one country to another.

I submitted my passport, got it stamped, and passed.

When I turned around, I saw that Tablo was stopped.

There was a lot of murmuring,

and I saw Mithra being escorted away by two people.

- He was being taken away. - Why?

I saw them while passing by.

They didn't stop me.

They knew that we were three people,

but they didn't recognize me.

We had an American manager with us.

They took him instead.

I was the only one...

He must have looked like you.

Without knowing why, I said, "What should I do?"

Tablo said, "You should go and guard our belongings."

- So I took the flight alone. - Really?

More than anything, I like his stories from the past.

- Me too. - Yes.

You have so many stories with potential.

Haha says that he's famous,

- I've been telling him for years. - but he's not popular.

After performing on "Show! Music Core,"

his fans came out to see him.

- About 11 of them. - I was so grateful.

- Eleven people... - I was very grateful.

- It's quite a lot. - It made me cry.

Not many people have a fan base that big.

- You should be grateful. - Ten people?

- My goodness. - That's not what I mean.

Goodness.

- Is he trying to comfort me? - Listen to me.

Hey.

In my opinion, Jae Seok is very mean.

No.

This is the true face of our Nation's Beloved Host.

- You can tell, right? - Yes.

That's not what I mean.

My fan base might...

- not be as big. - Don't say that.

You have 50 million fans.

So you know.

Why are you looking at me like that while saying it?

Because you're irritating.

You're brave enough to say that.

I've been working in this field since I was young.

- Now that I'm in my 40s, - Right.

so many fans I had didn't disappear.

- They're busy with their lives. - Right.

That's exactly what I'm saying.

Your fans are busy with their lives right now,

so let's spark passion in their hearts.

- "I used to like him very much." - Right.

It could be a chance to recognize how they feel.

- Let's create such an occasion. - That's it.

You came to see the wrong person. I have so many fans.

Where are they?

Show me.

How many followers do you have?

Stop it. Hey.

- I have 3.8 million followers. - Stop it.

Good for you, but why did only ten people show up?

He must have paid them to be his followers.

Wait, could you promise to each other?

- Promise to each other. - Don't criticize me.

Don't mock each other.

- Let's be honest. - Don't mock each other.

- Let's not be offended. - Don't mock each other.

- Haha, I have... - Let's not be offended.

about 230,000 followers.

Among 230,000 followers,

what if 90 percent of them are Tablo's fans?

That's a reasonable doubt.

My fans must be at least 15 percent, don't you think?

I'm rarely on social media.

I was organizing my things yesterday,

and I found old photos of Epik High.

- That's touching. - Photos from 20 years ago.

- I felt nostalgic, - Right.

so I took photos of them and posted them.

How did people react?

(An upload of Tukutz's memories)

- The fans were happy to see them. - Of course.

The members said,

"Don't post other people's photos without permission."

I'd be so upset.

That's really upsetting.

- Darn it. - It's really upsetting.

From now on, post your photos only.

I won't do it again!

(Drinking up coffee instead of soju)

He won't do it.

He's not freeloading on you.

That's right.

You should make it clear when you aren't happy...

- about something. - Right.

Here's what I think.

You should be properly respected in your field.

- You held back for too long. - For too long.

You've been holding back for too long.

Use this chance to bring back all your hidden fans.

- That could happen. - Right.

Anyway,

here's an invitation for you.

Let's shine.

I believe that it will be a good opportunity for all of us.

This is probably what synergy is about.

You don't have to decide today.

- You don't have to decide today. - Right.

- Let us know before next week. - Okay.

- Jung Sik, thank you for your time. - Yes.

- It was good to see you. - Likewise.

- You still got it. - You're good.

- He still has it. - This cake is...

(Cake?)

You can take it with you.

Take it with me?

- What's wrong with you today? - Or I'll take it with me.

If not, I'll take it home.

- This is... - It would go to waste.

- I'll take it home. - See?

- His children would like it. - They like cake.

- Of course. - We like...

That's why I didn't eat it on purpose.

- I'll take it home. - Right.

Jung Sik, you may go.

You told me to take it home.

You go first.

We'll leave first.

(Who will be the next NPCC candidate?)

(Friday, July 18)

(Early in the morning in the heart of Seoul)

(Amidst the busy morning crowd,)

(the calm sound of footsteps shifts the mood.)

(An entrance at the end of their path)

(Master, open the door.)

(Tap)

(Why doesn't it open?)

What's wrong with this? Wait.

- I see. - This is...

- We have to push it. - We have to push it.

- It feels like a place for agents. - Right.

- Goodness. - It's so fancy.

This place is...

Are we expecting an important guest?

Isn't this the city view?

Is this really necessary?

By the way, we are spending too much, aren't we?

I know. Is this person that great?

In your opinion, you think this is too much...

- for a person of that reputation. - Right.

We could meet in front of a vending machine.

This is wild. It's really early in the morning.

Isn't this a steak house?

By the way, why are you wearing a ring these days?

What's wrong with it?

Ever since you've admitted that you weren't as popular,

you've gone all out with the accessories.

- As if you're... - Girl fans love it.

- You're copying G-DRAGON. - I am not copying G-DRAGON.

I like G-DRAGON. I'm a huge fan.

- But I'm not copying him. - Then why...

- Partners in fashion. - are you like that?

You used to go a different way. Why are you like this now?

Now that he's out again, you're copying him.

- Is your heart racing? - G-DRAGON...

- Stop it. - Why then?

People in the fashion world will think you're telling the truth.

This is a Western pattern. You don't know what that is, do you?

You're unbelievable.

You've always tried hard to copy G-DRAGON.

So why are you upset when I say you're copying him?

I'm not copying him. We're on the same fashion path!

- But you can't. - Why can't I?

(While they're debating about whether Haha is copying G-Dragon...)

- You're insane. - Haha, listen. Wait.

Hey.

Why can't I?

(While they're debating about whether Haha is copying G-Dragon...)

- You're insane. - Haha, listen. Wait.

(He enters smoothly!)

Hey.

(The third candidate of NPCC is Jang Hang Jun.)

Hey.

(Candidate 3: film director Jang Hang Jun)

(He's got a unique sense of humor and vibe.)

(He's a film director praised for his stylish directing.)

(However)

(He's actually known more as the husband of Kim Eun Hee.)

(He's the man who's got everything except for popularity.)

- You can sit here. - Okay.

Why are you wearing a mask?

Did you catch a cold?

- I didn't catch a cold. - Right.

- Listen up. - Okay.

Being a star...

means keeping the mystery.

Come on, Hang Jun.

(A mask makes the wearer mysterious.)

Why should we listen carefully?

We are the only ones here. We can hear you well enough.

There's a chance of running into a fan while I'm on the road.

His tone is hilarious.

"Listen up."

- Hang Jun. - Yes.

Ever since I've known you, you've never smelled this nice.

I never knew you could smell like this.

It's the first time.

I've known him for many years.

I'm shocked.

You smell great.

I took a shower as soon as I woke up and came here.

Why is the shoot so early?

You are a busy man.

- Right. - Hang Jun is busy.

I heard you just flew back yesterday?

I landed last night.

- Where did you go? - Where did you go?

Spain and Portugal.

- Why? - I finished shooting a film.

So I took my assistants on a trip.

You went sightseeing?

Yes. Just sightseeing.

A tour.

He recently finished filming a movie.

- Yes. - What is it called?

It's a period drama called, "The Man Who Lives with the King."

- It stars Yoo Hai Jin, - Hai Jin.

Park Ji Hoon, Yoo Ji Tae,

- and many more. - Goodness.

You really nailed it this time.

- Well done. - You haven't eaten breakfast.

- I want my steak cooked medium. - You do?

I looked it up and found out that this was a steak house.

He's a pro, this guy.

- Three T-bone steaks, please. - Three.

- Goodness. Thank you. - Canadian bacon.

- Thank you. - Thank you.

Dig in.

The eldest should eat first.

This bread is nice and warm.

Goodness.

I'm happy we get to...

- treat you to a nice breakfast. - I know.

Having steak for breakfast is very rare, isn't it?

(They warm up their stomachs with the appetizer.)

The other time, you mentioned it on TV.

What?

About us running into each other at Hapjeong Station.

You saw that?

(When they were announcing the candidates for NPCC...)

(I ran into Hang Jun at Hapjeong Station.)

(He was wearing a mask...)

(when nobody was recognizing him anyway.)

(I asked him, "Why are you wearing a mask?")

(He said, "I'm Jang Hang Jun.")

(The mask made him invite Jang Hang Jun.)

He couldn't understand why you were wearing a mask...

at Hapjeong Station.

Why?

People weren't going to swarm around you even without the mask.

That's not it.

I like taking the subway everywhere.

- Right. - You have to go to many places.

I take the subway often.

So I get to meet people a lot.

On good days, I don't wear a mask.

- When you're in a good mood. - I don't wear the mask.

When I am in a good mood.

But there are days when I can't bother meeting people.

- On those days, I put it on. - He's a superstar.

He's living the life of a real superstar.

I am a human. I can't help it.

People might see your face...

- and greet you happily, - Right.

- but you might not be in the mood. - You might be frowning.

That would put you in an awkward situation.

Sometimes, I have to hurry.

Do people go crazy when you pass by them?

(Does the traffic come to a standstill?)

Do they grab you? Do they swarm around you?

Are you the Pied Piper?

What happens? Tell us.

That happened once. Just once.

It happened just once? Where did it happen?

It happened once when I was on the way to Shindaebang-dong.

I went to my daughter's school there,

and middle school girls nearby...

They live a boring life, you know. And I happened.

They swarmed around me and screamed like crazy.

- Thank you. - Here's water and wet towels.

- Thank you. - Thank you.

You are handsome.

I will pour it for you.

By the way, it's no joke.

He should be the celebrity.

Right. He's the most handsome out of all of us.

I agree. It's true.

- I am second. - Seriously. He's...

- Gosh. - He's the 1st, and I'm the 2nd.

- I'm sure about that. - He ranks at the bottom.

(He's sure that Hang Jun ranks at the bottom.)

(Cracking up)

Is "mad man" your concept for the day?

(His honest feelings slip out when he ranks last in looks.)

What are you all talking about?

Do you mean it?

It's "mad man" our concept for the day?

What are you talking about?

(You were born at the perfect time.)

(Neck-and-neck race to be the worst-looking)

- Goodness. - The mad man concept.

You all agree on that, right? He ranks first.

- He surely does. - That we all agree.

I agree with the second place.

- What? - The second place too.

- I agree with the second place. - Stop it.

How can he rank second in looks?

- He's not that handsome. - Hey, I am Choi Woo Shik.

What are you talking about?

They're in the medal zone,

and we're in the non-medal zone.

And one of us is surely not a Homo sapiens.

(One of them is surely not a Homo sapiens.)

He must be a Neanderthal.

Now that's us.

- You know what Homo sapiens... - I know.

You have to know that much to have a conversation.

What makes you think I wouldn't know?

Why are you yelling?

- What makes you think... - Why are you yelling?

He doesn't know.

- Of course I know! - He doesn't know.

Why would you yell? It's morning. You could talk more gently.

Why would you... Which college did you go to?

Didn't he study at the Seoul Institute of the Arts?

- Yes. - We went to the same school.

- Did you study screenwriting? - I studied theater.

- Theater. - Theater.

Haha might be the only... Did you graduate?

I did. I graduated. You didn't graduate, did you?

- Hey. - Turns out...

I have quite a few advantages here.

In terms of looks and education.

(Last place in both looks and education?)

It's here.

- There's a flag. - Thank you.

(Surprised)

(Looks stunning)

Look at this.

This is how they serve a steak now.

Let's dig in.

Tenderloin is more tender than sirloin,

so I recommend you eat the tenderloin first.

It’s paired with aged kimchi dressed with perilla oil.

- What's this? - You pair kimchi with it?

You pair kimchi with it?

- This is crazy. - This is creamed spinach.

Kimchi is a great addition.

Mashed potato.

This is legit.

Look at this. Goodness.

- Thank you. - Enjoy.

- Okay. - Hang Jun, dig in.

- Okay. - I will serve it.

(He tries the steak first.)

Now.

(Loving it)

- It's really good. - It melts in your mouth.

It's not greasy at all.

It's perfectly seasoned too. It's luxurious.

It's good with the spinach.

Right.

They are great together, aren't they?

(He eats it with the creamed spinach.)

(It enhances the flavor.)

This is incredible.

When you eat it with the garnish, it doesn't taste greasy at all.

Yes.

The food here is reminiscent...

of American home cooking. Right?

Right.

They serve kimchi too.

- I can't believe they serve kimchi. - What's this?

- And... - What's this?

this place has great food.

- It's nice. - It's great.

Let's make a toast.

Why don't you say a word?

- Since I... - Yes.

Since I'm here to root for your show,

I will say a chant, then you will say, "Let's love!"

- "Let's love!" And clink the glass. - That's amazing.

It's because I am here to really root for the show.

- Okay. - All right.

(Get ready.)

Jang Hang Jun.

- Let's love! - Let's love!

(Wait.)

What's wrong with him?

He's unbelievable.

(The toast switcher is pleased.)

By the way, Hang Jun.

Yes?

How's Writer Kim?

Eun Hee's writing...

another season of "Signal."

- "Signal." Gosh. - "Signal."

She just finished writing the script.

They are already filming "Signal 2."

- It's a crazy show. - They are filming it?

- Yes, they're filming it. - I'm so excited.

It's been almost ten years...

- since the first season came out. - I already knew it.

Right.

Eun Hee won an award at the Baeksang Arts Awards...

with "Signal."

- Right. - Best Screenplay Award.

Do you remember what she said in the acceptance speech?

(What did she say?)

"I thank Director Jang Hang Jun for guiding me to this place..."

"when I didn't know anything."

(You know what I am saying?)

By the way, why...

Why did she...

Why did she mention you in the acceptance speech?

People tend to forget it.

They forget my contribution.

He's got high self-esteem.

I think you were born to be an attention seeker.

I wasn't.

You weren't?

- I wasn't. I just like myself. - Right.

(I am the center of this world.)

- Yes. - My goodness.

(Laughing)

How old is your daughter now?

She's eight now.

- Is she? - I see.

Wait.

Your daughter got into college, didn't she?

She did. This year.

(Hang Jun's daughter became a college freshman.)

College admissions is no joke.

I was much more nervous than when I was entering college.

Right.

Back in our days,

there were more kids who didn't go to college.

- Right. - Many people didn't go.

But now, going to college has become the norm.

But a lot of people skip college...

and get straight to work.

- He's a living proof. - Right. Many people do that.

He's a legend among high school grads.

He's amazing.

But he's...

- He didn't even graduate. - Wait.

- You were the crazy kid. - Look.

It's true that I'm a high school graduate.

But why did you point like this?

- It's true? - No.

I am not trying to judge you...

- for your level of education. - Right.

- I applaud the smart ones. - You give them credit.

- I give them credit. - You give them credit.

- You envy them. - I envy them.

It's the place ordinary people like you...

have never been able to go.

What did you just say?

- What did you just say? - Gosh.

You lived your whole life...

- as a mediocre student. - You're so mean.

- And... - He endured it through...

and became the Nation's Beloved Host.

Right.

He's ugly,

- and he's uneducated. - Right.

He's the Nation's Beloved Host,

- and he's very popular. - Right.

- He's amazing. - He is amazing indeed.

And his wife studied English literature.

- Incredible. Truly. - Hey. Why are you...

His son Ji Ho speaks English fluently too.

- By the way... - He's almost a native.

- Why are you... - I'm bragging.

- I'm bragging. - Why are you bragging...

- about my wife's major? - It's my pride.

She speaks English so well.

Which school did she study at?

- Yonsei University. - Yonsei University?

Now that's a different story.

- A totally different story. - That's a totally...

- different story? - She's pretty and smart.

By the way, why are we talking about...

- our educational background? - You are...

- Should we talk about our looks? - What?

- Your looks are... - He's ugly too.

- Should we talk about the looks? - You are less educated too.

- Wait. - It's your career that matters.

Why did you suddenly side with Hang Jun?

I didn't side with him.

It's just that he's saying the right things.

- You're the only one here. - Right.

- You're a "master," aren't you? - I have a master's degree.

My father was called upon by Mr. Kim Jong Pil.

- He used to be in Germany. - My dad is fluent in English.

He used to work in Germany.

- My dad still speaks good English. - Hey.

- Was it Frankfurt? - Wait.

My sister is a professor of piano.

What's wrong with you?

Why do you keep bringing up Mr. Kim Jong Pil?

- Can't I bring him up? - You can.

Are you upset because your dad never got to meet him?

My dad got picked up by his escorts.

- Hey. - He was born in 1943.

What my family was like in my childhood...

The level of wealth of my family...

- It's beyond your imagination. - What?

Now the world has become a better place,

and we get to eat sitting face-to-face.

- What? - You couldn't do that before.

- Of course... - What...

- What are you? - Yes. What are you?

- I'm their son! - Who are they?

Of course, my father's business went bankrupt at one point.

- We had to move. - Your family...

was quite well-off too.

- Hang Jun... - It was like that.

I heard he came from an affluent family.

So when I was little,

I always had tutors.

- Private tutoring. - Right.

Tutors came to my place.

Then... You know.

Right.

With the rise of the Fifth Republic,

tutoring became banned.

- Right. - Right.

So I stopped getting tutored.

- I felt so free. - Yes.

Then, after about a month, I got a secret tutor.

- High-priced private tutoring. - Right. High-priced.

(Beeping)

That was our doorbell at the time. Beep, beep, beep.

"It's me."

The tutors kept looking around outside.

At the time, your family was going to get ruined...

if you got caught hiring private tutors.

It was banned by the government.

It was banned. It was a serious offense.

- It was a serious offense. - It was a serious offense.

So I told my mom.

(What did you tell her?)

That I will report to the police if she hires them next month.

(He said he would report his mom to the police.)

(Her son had an exceptional respect for the law.)

I still can't forget her face when I said it.

- He is... - That's crazy.

He's crazy.

Hang Jun is crazy.

- Anyway, Hang Jun. - Yes?

It's so nice to see you...

- after so long. - Right.

But it's about time we told you the reason why we are here.

Reason? Why are you here?

(Now that is...)

- Wait. - You are full, right?

Looks like you've eaten a lot.

- I'm scared. What is it? - Nothing.

You see.

What's that?

This is just a standard procedure.

Hey, what's...

(Non-Popular Celebrity Club)

(Jang Hang Jun, born September 17, 1969)

You know all the nicknames, right?

"God's Favorite Lucky Guy."

"A Maltese with No Tear Stains."

(He accepts it.)

- That's so funny. - Who has never had a hard day.

"A Maltese Who's Never Had a Hard Day."

That brings me... Wait.

- Nonhyun Elementary School? - Yes.

- You're from Gangnam? - I am from Gangnam.

- Whimoon High School? - Whimoon High School?

Gosh.

(Laughing)

- How incredible. - How incredible.

My dad... You know the Republic of Korea Air Force Academy?

- At Boramae Park in Jongno. - Yes.

He built several buildings of it.

- He had a construction company. - He had a construction company.

During the 70s and 80s,

the construction industry was booming.

- He made a huge success. - Your family was really rich.

My family was rich.

There wasn't a time in my childhood when we didn't have a driver.

- Goodness. - Goodness.

I... At home, we had...

- Who are you talking to? - helpers.

- Why are you... - I just want to brag.

Those were happy days.

Do you want me to tell you a story?

- Tell us. - Do you want a story?

- Yes. - Yes.

One time, I went to school.

We were to plant trees.

In the old days, the mountains didn't have trees.

- We planted a lot. - There weren't many trees.

- They were bare. - The mountains were bare.

So the school asked the kids...

to go home and get money to buy trees.

- Right. It was a small amount. - Like 50 cents.

I told my mom I had to take 50 cents to school,

but my mom wouldn't give it to me.

She wouldn't give it to me, so I went to school without it.

We were in the middle of class.

And all of a sudden, the kids looked out the window.

"What's that?" They kept staring out the window.

Even the teachers started to look out the window.

- And? - How is it sounding so far?

It sounds great.

- It's interesting, isn't it? - Just say it.

- Who are you talking to? - Who are you talking to?

Who are you talking to?

To the viewers.

The door opened,

and the trucks loaded with trees kept coming into the school.

- There were several of them. - Right.

The person who got off the truck first was my mom.

It was clearly my mom.

My mom had brought the trucks full of trees.

I went out to the hallway.

And the school principal...

The gesture is important here.

- You stand here. - Okay.

Look, Jae Seok.

Here.

- You are Hang Jun. - Okay.

- I am the principal. - Right.

It's true.

(Over-immersed)

(Embarrassed)

- It's true. - Stop exaggerating.

You didn't have to go this far.

Since you were a kid, he went down to your eye level.

- Right. - Yes.

The principal wouldn't have lowered himself like that.

No wonder.

You are different from who we thought you were.

You went to the prestigious schools in Gangnam,

and your family had a driver.

Even if I were born to a less fortunate family,

- You would still be the same? - I would still be relaxed.

He's a born storyteller.

He knows so many fun stories.

- Very interesting stories. - Right.

You've got a few embarrassing stories too.

Do I?

The reason we want Hang Jun to appear on this episode...

and his anecdotes tie in completely.

- That's great. Read on. - So...

- Actor Kim Seung Woo. - Yes.

When he got married to actress Kim Nam Joo,

Hang Jun drove there in a beat-up car.

He tried to say hi to actor Jang Dong Gun,

and a bodyguard stopped him.

(Episode 1: He got stopped by Jang Dong Gun's bodyguard.)

- Well... - You didn't appear on TV then.

At the time, my car...

It was a really old car.

I didn't have much money then.

Whenever someone drove into me...

My car was driven into all the time.

When I got into a fender-bender,

"I'm so sorry. I'll call my insurance company."

"No, don't do that. Give me 100 dollars in cash instead."

I'd get them to give me cash.

A few days later, I'd get into another accident.

One after another after the other.

Do you know what the best thing is?

When they crash into an existing crater in the car.

"Here's 200 dollars." "Oh, thank you."

(This candidate is so pitiful.)

When the person is incapable of earning an income...

If the person can't earn anything, their car will instead.

You get through it somehow.

- So my car was... - It was a mess.

It had bumps and scrapes everywhere.

(Hang Jun's car looked beat up.)

I had no choice. I couldn't afford to fix anything.

- So... - You took that car?

Yes, I drove that car to the wedding.

Seung Woo got married in a really flashy place.

- They were both top stars. - Yes.

Even the valets there were in uniform.

- Yes. - Right.

(More excessive reenacting)

"How dare you?" It was like that.

It was like that.

He loves to talk about himself.

He's pleased to be the center of attention.

- He was starved for attention. - And all the crew...

is listening to what he says...

I just love the fact that you're all looking at me.

I can feel it.

They must've seen my car come in.

They did this to let the other cars in,

but when I got there,

with the light stick...

- To send you away. - Do a U-turn and leave.

I rolled down my window,

and they looked at me as if there was no way I was a guest.

Anyway, I managed to park my car...

and enter the building.

There were reporters and cameramen everywhere.

- There was a huge crowd. - Yes.

There would be.

I walked inside.

I was a door away from the actual wedding hall.

I opened the doors like this.

Jang Dong Gun was right there.

He was practically in my face.

- I know him personally. - Yes.

I said, "Hey, Dong Gun," but my body was moving.

Someone there was dragging me away.

A member of the staff.

He's a mime now too.

"Dong Gun..."

"I'm Jang Hang Jun!"

That's what happened.

- My gosh. - How did you feel?

- What? - Were you...

hurt that no one recognized you?

It makes sense that no one knew me then.

- You admit that? - Yes.

Similar stories to that about him...

- Are there a lot? - Yes.

Here's another one.

- He directed the TV drama "Sign." - Yes.

On the official online forum for fans of that drama,

- he made a thank-you post. - That's right.

What about it?

- The director left a post. - The director left a post.

- The fans would go crazy. - Well...

Just one day after that, his post got pushed way down the list...

because over 1,000 people had posted.

(Episode 2: His "Sign" forum post got buried in 1,000 other posts.)

To be honest, Hang Jun...

- It's so funny. - There are so many anecdotes.

- Seriously. - Honestly, Hang Jun...

You're the jokester of our age.

- Yes. - Yes.

Even if he were born in the Joseon era,

I think he'd have traveled the country...

with a bundle on his back...

and told stories to people.

Crowds would flock to him...

and he'd have made a lot of money.

So...

Hang Jun, basically...

We have to explain why we're here.

Yes. What's the bottom line?

- Now... - Let's get to it.

- Here you go. - Yes.

Read that invitation.

Let's see.

"You're invited."

"You're famous, but your fan base isn't big."

"Non-Popular Celebrity Club, the NPCC special."

"Film industry jokester Jang Hang Jun."

"We invite you to the NPCC special."

(He can't believe his eyes.)

Are you feeling it?

What kind of fools did you gather?

I wonder what this festival will be like.

(He expressed a surge of emotion.)

That was a bit aggressive.

Okay. I admit it.

This is very amusing.

- Okay. - I like it.

(He seems unfazed.)

You're easy to talk to.

- Of course. - He's cool about it.

- We can talk freely. - He's cool with it.

Variety shows must be fun.

You knew, didn't you?

I had a gist.

- You're well-known. - Yes.

People recognize me, but I don't think they like me much.

Then we don't have to feel too bad.

- Right? - Me. I'm like that too.

When I'm out and about in public,

people recognize me and ask to take a photo with me.

"I'm a huge fan of your wife, Kim Eun Hee."

I sometimes wonder if I should spend the rest of my life...

trying to make her look bad.

(My savior is tarnishing my fame.)

Would that make me look better?

I even thought of that, but that's stupid.

(He's cheerful.)

We need your film to do well.

- Yes. - Find your hidden fans.

- Your... - Your other project!

The thing that Song Eun I produced.

- "Open the Door." - Based in LA.

- I saw that at a cinema. - Did you?

There were just three people. Me, Go Eun, and someone else.

(Just three moviegoers)

That's why we invited him to participate.

- I saw the movie. - That's enough.

- I paid to watch. - I accept the fact.

You don't have to give an answer right now.

But we need more than three participants...

- to open the event. - To have the festival.

- Participants? - Willing participants.

I see. Got it.

What kind of people do you expect?

- That's a secret. - We can't share that.

But around you...

Any recommendations?

There must be some in the film business.

- Or people you know. - Yes.

- They're famous, but... - There are some in my industry.

Oh Jung Se.

(I get the feeling.)

Isn't Jung Se... Doesn't he have fans?

I haven't seen anyone say, "I can't live without Jung Se."

He's fun when he appears on screen.

- Oh Jung Se. - It's an illusion.

It's an illusion that Jung Se is popular.

It's an illusion?

We recognize each other.

No.

Thanks for being cool with it.

- Yes. You're really... - You're awesome.

You treated me to steak.

What wouldn't I do for a steak meal?

Hang Jun. Think about it.

- I will. - Thanks.

- I hope you say yes. - Okay.

Let's move on, then.

- He's cool with it. - Yes.

Think about it and say yes if you can.

- Okay. - Let's do something together.

The jokester of our age. Bye.

- Take care. - Bye.

See you.

Live life like Jang Hang Jun.

(Will he join the NPCC ?)

- I'm off. - See you.

The Maltese with no tear stains.

(We're looking for people who want to take part.)

(Director Yu)

(Writer Ha)

(80s MBC Seoul Song Festival Promotion Committee)

(Let's host an 80s song festival!)

(Tape recordings come in from all over the country.)

(They are all ears.)

(People are judged only by their taped audition!)

(From vocal cords we're honored to host...)

(to beats that remind us of old clubs!)

(Director Yu and Writer Ha's 80s Seoul Song Festival is coming soon.)

(Subtitles are provided by KOCOWA.)