Kim Jaejoong is set to break a 15-year hiatus from public broadcasting variety shows, marking a significant return to this genre with his appearance on KBS2’s reality show, “Fun-staurant.”Industry insiders reported on February 23 that Kim Jaejoong had completed filming an episode for “Fun-staurant” the day before.
A source from the show confirmed the news, stating, “It is true that Kim Jaejoong participated in filming for ‘Fun-staurant’ on February 22. The broadcast schedule is yet to be decided.”
Expressing gratitude to fans through the fan communication platform Fromm on the afternoon of February 23, Kim Jaejoong acknowledged the anticipation surrounding his return to variety shows, saying, “You’ve been waiting for this good news for a long time, right?
It is all thanks to everyone’s support for a long time. I will work hard to make more smiley days filled with good memories step by step.”
This marks a significant moment in Kim Jaejoong’s career as it will be his first appearance on a public broadcasting variety show since his legal battle with SM Entertainment in 2009, during which he filed for a temporary injunction to suspend his exclusive contract.
Following his departure from TVXQ, he ventured into acting, featuring in notable dramas like “Protect the Boss,” “Dr Jin,” “Triangle,” “Spy,” and “Manhole,” but had refrained from participating in public broadcasting variety programs until now.
“Fun-staurant” is a survival show where participants present their unique recipes, and judges taste the dishes, ultimately selecting the best one. The winning recipe earns the opportunity to be sold in convenience stores nationwide.
Fans are now eagerly anticipating what kind of recipe Kim Jaejoong will showcase on “Fun-restaurant,” and the news of his appearance has undoubtedly generated excitement among viewers.
“Fun-staurant” airs every Friday at 8:30 p.m. KST, and with Kim Jaejoong’s return, the upcoming episode is expected to attract a considerable audience curious to see the multi-talented artist in a different light.