On March 9, tvN released a preview clip titled “The story behind Lee Dong Hwi’s viral ‘pumba-style’ outfit, his difficult days as an unknown actor, and the snowboarding life of monk Hosan.” The teaser immediately attracted attention for its mix of funny anecdotes and deeply emotional moments.
During the episode, Lee Dong Hwi addressed the much-talked-about “pumba-style” jacket he recently wore, which reportedly cost 3.86 million won (about $2,900). The actor joked about the controversy surrounding the outfit, saying he could spend a whole hour explaining it.
“I could honestly talk about that ‘pumba’ outfit for an hour today,” he said. “When I bought it, the staff said, ‘It just arrived today and there’s only one left.'” Her explanation about the unusual fashion choice drew laughter in the studio.
The actor also shared humorous memories from his college days, admitting that he once took his passion for art a little too far. “I think I had a serious case of ‘artist’s disease’ around that time,” Lee Dong Hwi recalled. “During an exam, I wrote on the answer sheet that I would show the answer through a performance instead.”
Host Yoo Jae Suk jokingly responded, “He’s incredibly arrogant” eliciting more laughter among the cast and crew.
The episode also revisited an old bond between the two animators. Yoo Jae Suk remembers that Lee Dong Hwi once asked him to sign a script when they were filming a vitamin commercial together years ago.
Lee Dong Hwi responded with a hint of regret, saying: “I’ve looked everywhere, but I can’t find that signed script anymore.” Yoo Jae Suk replied jokingly, “What have you been doing?” eliciting another laugh.
However, the mood changed when Lee Dong Hwi talked about the difficult years before becoming a famous actor. Reflecting on his past struggles, he revealed that he once burst into tears while listening to the song As I Say.
“I remember listening to ‘As I Say’ and crying alone in my room,” he said, his voice becoming more and more excited. “Some of my friends died before me and it made me think about a lot of things.”
The candid confession left the studio visibly moved, showing a more vulnerable side of the actor known for his humor and charismatic personality.
Lee Dong Hwi’s full appearance on Take the block quiz will air on tvN on March 11 at 8.45pm, where viewers can expect both heartfelt stories and lots of laughs.
Sources: Daum
