Volleyball Legend Kim Yeon-koung Opens Up About Director's Life: "Tricked by MBC, Lost My Personal Life"

Former volleyball star Kim Yeon-koung has candidly revealed the hardships and passion of her new role as a director on MBC's 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-koung'.

The episode aired on the 19th showed Kim Yeon-koung leading her team, 'Wonderdogs,' in their preparations for a friendly match against Japan's powerhouse, Shujitsu High School.

In an interview the night before the game, Kim Yeon-koung expressed her strong determination to win but soon confessed her struggles with an overwhelming schedule. "I haven't had a single day off this week, and next week will be the same. Just thinking about it makes me want to cry," she shared. She humorously added, "I was tricked by MBC and the PDs. They're scammers. I was fooled and lost my voice and my personal life," a remark that drew laughter.

She further lightened the mood by saying, "I'm worried about how my voice will sound on broadcast. Interviewing at 11 PM, are they crazy?" The director confessed that her current role is more demanding than when she was a player, but she showed unwavering resolve to persevere for her team despite the grueling schedule.

The broadcast also featured the preparation scenes for the match against Shujitsu High School. Kim Yeon-koung spurred her players on with her characteristic competitive spirit, stating, "If you lose, don't come out of the dorm. Swim here on a boat." Amidst harsh criticism from the Japanese coach, she calmly guided her team with the belief that "Preparation ultimately wins everything."

Kim Yeon-koung's presence was also immense in Japan, where she previously played for JT Marvelous. She is still considered a 'superstar' by Japanese volleyball fans. As students swarmed her, shouting greetings and thanks, Kim Yeon-koung responded with a relaxed smile, "At this rate, I should get paid."

Netizens commented on the broadcast, saying things like, "Director Kim Yeon-koung is working so hard," "I was so engrossed in the show, time flew by," and "As expected from a legend, she's on another level." They expressed their support for her passion and efforts.