On March 9, tvN released a preview clip titled “The story behind Lee Dong Hwi’s viral ‘pumba-style’ outfit, his struggling days as an unknown actor, and the snowboarding life of monk Hosan.” The teaser quickly attracted attention for its mix of humorous 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 (around $2,900). The actor joked about the controversy surrounding the outfit, saying he could spend an entire hour explaining it.
“I could honestly talk about that ‘pumba’ outfit for an hour today,” he said. “When I bought it, the staff told me, ‘It just arrived today and there’s only one left.’” His explanation about the unusual fashion choice drew laughter from the studio.
The actor also shared humorous memories from his university days, admitting that he once took his passion for the arts a bit too far. “I think I had a serious case of the ‘artist disease’ back then,” 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 playfully responded, “That’s unbelievably arrogant,” sparking more laughter among the cast and crew.
The episode also revisited an old connection between the two entertainers. Yoo Jae Suk remembered that Lee Dong Hwi once asked him to sign a script while they were filming a vitamin commercial together years ago.
Lee Dong Hwi responded with a hint of regret, saying, “I looked everywhere, but I can’t find that signed script anymore.” Yoo Jae Suk jokingly replied, “What have you been doing?” prompting another round of laughter.
However, the mood shifted when Lee Dong Hwi spoke about the difficult years before he became a well-known actor. Reflecting on his past struggles, he revealed that he once broke down in 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 growing emotional. “Some of my friends passed away before me, and that made me think about many 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 You Quiz on the Block will air on tvN on March 11 at 8:45 p.m., where viewers can expect both heartfelt stories and plenty of laughter.
Sources: Daum