Lee Hyori, Korean variety show host and entertainer

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Lee Hyori and Seo Jang Hoon Team Up for New JTBC Variety Show

Korea's Variety Queen Lee Hyori confirms a new JTBC variety program co-hosted with former basketball star Seo Jang Hoon, set to air in the first half of 2026.

Pak

March 8, 2026

#Korean Entertainment#JTBC#Variety Show#Lee Hyori#Seo Jang Hoon#K-Variety

Lee Hyori (이효리) is back where she belongs. Korea's undisputed "Variety Queen" has confirmed she will co-host a new variety program on JTBC, teaming up with former professional basketball player turned entertainer Seo Jang Hoon. The show is set to air in the first half of 2026, and with this pairing, it already has the internet buzzing.

Lee Hyori, Korean variety show host and Fin.K.L member — Lee Hyori, widely known as Korea's "Variety Queen." Photo: Management Soop

A Friendship Finally on Camera

What makes this announcement hit differently is the personal dynamic. Lee Hyori and Seo Jang Hoon are close friends off-screen, and their genuine chemistry is expected to be the engine that drives the show. Audiences can expect the kind of unscripted, candid energy you only get when two people actually enjoy each other's company. The format and title have not been revealed yet, but JTBC and the talent involved are more than enough to generate anticipation.

Seo Jang Hoon has built a solid variety reputation in his own right. After retiring from professional basketball, he pivoted to entertainment with shows like Divorce Camp, Seo Jang-hoon's Millionaire Neighbor, and Rising Eagles. His candid commentary and natural wit have made him a reliable presence on Korean television, and pairing him with Lee Hyori is a bold creative choice that plays to both their strengths.

Why Lee Hyori on Variety Is Always an Event

Lee Hyori's variety track record speaks for itself. She has hosted everything from the music-forward The Seasons: Red Carpet with Lee Hyo-ri on MBC to the personal travel documentary Mom, Will You Go on a Trip with Me? and the slice-of-life Seoul Check-in series. Across every format, she brings an unfiltered honesty that audiences respond to. She's also a founding member of Fin.K.L (핀클), one of the most iconic first-generation K-pop girl groups in Korean pop history, which means her fanbase spans generations.

Her ability to anchor a show whether it's comedic, emotional, or somewhere in between is what sets her apart. The "Variety Queen" title isn't just marketing. She has earned it consistently over two decades.

What to Expect

With no title or format confirmed yet, speculation is wide open. Given both hosts' personalities, something travel-based or unscripted interaction-heavy seems likely. Whatever direction JTBC takes it, the combination of Lee Hyori's magnetic screen presence and Seo Jang Hoon's sharp wit gives the production room to go in virtually any direction.

The show is scheduled for the first half of 2026. Details on format, episode count, and release date will follow as JTBC makes further announcements.

Fans Also Ask

When does Lee Hyori and Seo Jang Hoon's JTBC show premiere?

The show has been confirmed for the first half of 2026. JTBC has not yet disclosed the exact premiere date, episode count, or format. Further details are expected as production ramps up and the network makes official announcements.

What is the format of Lee Hyori and Seo Jang Hoon's new JTBC program?

The format has not been officially confirmed. The show is centered around the two lead hosts, Lee Hyori and Seo Jang Hoon, but JTBC has not announced whether it will be travel-based, talk show, competition, or another variety format.

Are Lee Hyori and Seo Jang Hoon friends in real life?

Yes, Lee Hyori and Seo Jang Hoon are known to be close friends off-screen. Their genuine personal chemistry is one of the reasons their pairing for this JTBC variety program has generated excitement among Korean entertainment fans.

What variety shows has Lee Hyori hosted before?

Lee Hyori has hosted several popular variety programs including The Seasons: Red Carpet with Lee Hyo-ri, Just Makeup Top Class Makeup Survival, Mom, Will You Go on a Trip with Me?, and the Seoul Check-in series. Her versatility across formats has earned her the nickname Variety Queen.

Who is Seo Jang Hoon?

Seo Jang Hoon is a former South Korean professional basketball player who transitioned into entertainment after his athletic career. He has appeared on variety shows including Divorce Camp, Seo Jang-hoon's Millionaire Neighbor, Rising Eagles, and Yesman, establishing himself as a witty and candid TV personality.