KBS 2TV variety show Problematic child at home aired its 295th episode on December 25 as a Christmas special, featuring an in-depth discussion of mental health that attracted considerable attention.
The episode welcomed Dr. Kim Bung-nyeon, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at Seoul National University, who shared medical insights into various mental health conditions that are increasingly talked about in modern society. Dr. Kim explained disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and ADHD from a clinical perspective, giving viewers a clearer understanding of these conditions and their growing prevalence.
During the broadcast, Kim Jong-kook and Yang Se-chan took part in an informal assessment regarding recent mental health issues, steering the conversation towards adult ADHD. Dr. Kim noticed Autism spectrum disorder diagnoses have increased four to five times over the past 20 years, attributing this increase to increased public awareness and environmental factors. He underlined it too ADHD should not be seen solely as a disorder, highlighting its connection to different personality traits and creativity in modern society.
Yang Se-chan, in particular, brought laughter to the studio by recalling his old school results and jokingly suggesting that he might have ADHD. Responding with humor, Dr. Kim pointed this out Yang may have simply been a playful child rather than someone with a disorderalso reassuring the spectators receiving a diagnosis of ADHD is not something to despair about.
The Christmas special recorded a nationwide audience rating of 3.1%, reflecting continued public interest in the programme’s candid and informative approach to mental health topics.
Outside of the show, Yang Se-chan has recently found himself in a difficult situation as several of his close colleagues have been involved in controversies and announced temporary suspensions from activities. On December 5, Jo Se-ho came under fire following allegations of association with organized crime figures. The following day, Yang’s close friend Park Na-rae became the subject of multiple controversies, including allegations of mistreating staff and receiving illegal medical care from an unlicensed provider. Both artists issued public apologies and declared disruptions to their activities.
In this context, Yang Se-chan’s appearance continues Problematic child at home openly addressing mental health in a light-hearted but thoughtful way proved to be a moment of reflection amid the ongoing turmoil in the Korean comedy scene.
Sources: Daum
