Yoo Jae-seok, a hugely popular comedian and show host, will marry his broadcaster-fiance Nah Kyoung-eun on July 6, Yoo said at a press conference Wednesday.
Nah, who works for MBC, was not by Yoo's side at the conference held in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, as she is on business trip to the United States. About 150 reporters showed up at the event where Yoo, best known as a main emcee of the popular MBC variety "Muhan Dojeon (Infinite Challenge)", fielded questions on their marriage schedules and love story.
The couple first met on the set of "Muhandojeon" two years ago, but, according to Yoo, 35, he didn't even dream of marrying her at the beginning. "I used to say that I wanted to marry an announcer on television, even before I met her. And that made it harder for me to develop the relationship as I wished", said Yoo, seriously but happily, during the press conference.
The veteran entertainer didn't hesitate to give an answer when asked when the two kissed for the first time. "Our first kiss was in the car. It was after two months of dating", he said.
Known for his good-natured and humble style of presenting, quite a few programs Yoo has been emceeing were, and still are, ranked in the top 10 most watched entertainment shows.
Yoo who was discovered in 1991 through a talent search organized by KBS was a late bloomer. Nearly a decade after his debut, Yoo landed a short but regular spot on the
Seo Se-won Show that was the real start to Yoo's career as a star comedian.
Once he was recognized for his candor, charm and friendly image, however, offers to host shows rolled in. For years now, he is among television's most sought-after presenters.
Today Yoo is also the highest paid television presenter, reportedly earning 8 million to 9 million won ($8,000-$9,000) per episode. It is estimated that his annual earnings are approximately 200 million won this year.
After the press conference, Yoo made a heart with his hands for his future wife. "I heard my future in-laws didn't expect her daughters would marry an entertainer. But now they feel comfortable about telling our relationship to their friends and relatives. My parents love my fiance of course. You know, she got this sweetness that makes everyone happy", You smiled.
Yoo is currently looking for the right place for their wedding, he said. Yoo's fellow comedian Lee Hui-jae will host the couple's wedding, while singer Kim Jong-gook is scheduled to be the wedding singer.
By Lee Yong-sung
