Lee Hwi-jae is rumored to be retiring due to news of his agency breaking up.
Adding insult to injury, shaken broadcaster Lee Hwi-jae
The public's expectations have risen, veterans who cannot read the trend
Adding insult to injury, shaken broadcaster Lee Hwi-jae
The public's expectations have risen, veterans who cannot read the trend
There were rumors of broadcaster Lee Hwi-jae's retirement. This is because the exclusive contract with the agency Cube Entertainment has ended. Currently, Lee Hwi-jae and his family took a break from broadcasting activities last year and went on a break to Canada.
Compared to his heyday, interest in celebrity Lee Hwi-jae has declined. The public seems to be only interested in the 'Lee Hwi-jae retirement rumor' that has been going on since the end of last year. Now, even sympathy is rising. Of course, criticism also followed based on his past actions.
Lee Hwi-jae debuted in 1992 with MBC's 'Sunday Sunday Night Hidden Camera'. Afterwards, he became known as a ‘handsome comedian’. He competed with his wit in the comedy world, which was dominated by slapstick (body gags) at the time.
From his warm image to his skills. He had his heyday in the 90s and established himself as a popular star in the following decades. His second heyday was with his twin sons, Seo-eon and Seo-jun. Lee Hwi-jae married florist Moon Jeong-won in 2010 and welcomed Seo-eon and Seo-jun.
Afterwards, he appeared on KBS2's 'The Return of Superman' and received national love. In addition, he achieved a career high by receiving the grand prize at the 2015 KBS Entertainment Awards.
Public opinion flipped in an instant. This is because of rumors from the person or their family. First, Lee Hwi-jae's 'sarcastic' manner of proceeding was problematic. At an awards ceremony, actor Sung Dong-il was criticized for his attire and displayed inappropriate behavior during his acceptance speech.
The argument, which ended in an incident, continued. The family's noise problem between floors and the controversy over spouse Moon Jeong-won's toy scam, etc. created a 'negative image' of Lee Hwi-jae. In hindsight, it wasn't a big problem, but the small blows were cumulative. This is why the public's interest in Lee Hwi-jae and his family has cooled.
The public's level of awareness has risen. If something does not conform to the national sentiment law, there will be criticism and criticism. This is especially true for celebrities with public recognition. Ultimately, times have changed. Lee Hwi-jae's failure to read the trends of the times is probably the cause of the controversy. You must give up the honor and pride that comes from over 30 years of entertainment experience. Park Myung-soo, who has gradually let go of his ranting character and adapted to the times, is worthy of being a teacher. If you show your identity as an ‘entertainer’ who brings laughter to the public, there is room for a rebound in popularity.
Reporter Junho Yoon, Ten Asia delo410@tenasia.co.kr