Broadcaster Lee Hwi-jae has announced his return to television after a four-year hiatus, but the public's response remains decidedly mixed.

At the end of the March 21 broadcast of KBS2's 'Immortal Songs', a teaser aired for the upcoming special episode, "2026 Entertainment King Competition", scheduled to broadcast on March 28.

The teaser featured Lee Hwi-jae greeting viewers, saying, "It's been a while. Nice to see you," and becoming visibly emotional. Lee is set to participate as a contestant in this special, performing Cho Ho-seop’s iconic song, "As Time Goes By".

With Lee's return to the spotlight via 'Immortal Songs' after four years, public attention has intensified. He had previously disappeared from the broadcasting scene following his departure from 'Entertainment Weekly Live' in 2022.

While Lee's comeback has been greeted with some anticipation, a portion of viewers has reacted harshly. Recent posts on the 'Immortal Songs' viewers' message board include comments such as, "Does Lee Hwi-jae really have to appear?", "It's not as if there's a shortage of people; is this intentional?", "This insults viewers," and "If Lee Hwi-jae appears, I don't want to pay license fees," as well as, "What is he thinking, making a comeback?" In contrast, there has also been a wave of support from others expressing, "It's nice to see him after so long," and "Cheering for Lee Hwi-jae."

Lee Hwi-jae previously suspended all broadcasting activities following several controversies involving his family, including disputes over noise between floors and allegations of unpaid toy bills. Subsequently, Lee and his wife, Moon Jung-won, relocated to Canada with their children. These developments sparked rumors of his retirement, but his upcoming appearance on 'Immortal Songs' is seen by some as the start of a full-fledged return to television.

Within the entertainment industry, responses remain divided, with many younger colleagues and peers advocating for his comeback.

Comedian Yoon Hyung-bin recently voiced public support for Lee Hwi-jae, saying, "I may not know everything, but the senior I've seen has always been a genuinely good person." He added, "With so many people speaking out like this, I even question if there's something I don't know." He concluded, "Whether in private or on set, he's always been a wonderful senior. Please support him."

Likewise, TV personality Sayuri also supported Lee by posting a screenshot of his return on her account, writing, "I missed seeing him." She added, "The oppa I know is warm, considerate, always looks after his fellow cast members, and is never arrogant—a real neighborhood friend." She offered her strong support for his return.

Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”

Photo=MHN DB, KBS2 'Immortal Songs', Channel 'Sayuri Imnida'

(MHN 관리자 )

 

 

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