Choi Soo-jong Reveals Reason for Tears on MBN's 'Puzzle Trip': "Touched by Reunion of Mike and His Birth Mother"

Actor Choi Soo-jong has revealed the reason behind his tearful moments during the filming of MBN's 30th-anniversary special, 'Puzzle Trip'.

'Puzzle Trip' is a real-life observational travelogue documenting the journeys of internationally adopted individuals returning to Korea to find a missing piece of their lives – their birth families. Selected for production support by the Korea Creative Content Agency in the 2025 public non-drama category, the program promises to deliver touching moments as adopted individuals and star puzzle guides navigate their quests.

Ahead of its premiere on the 27th, 'Puzzle Trip' released a written interview with Choi Soo-jong, who takes on the role of a 'Puzzle Guide,' heightening anticipation. Regarding his decision to participate, Choi Soo-jong stated, "As soon as I heard about the concept, I felt that a warm program like this was absolutely necessary." He added, "If adoptees wish to know their identity and roots, I wanted to play a role in helping them find that connection and facilitate positive reunions with their birth families."

Choi Soo-jong recalled the reunion between Mike and his birth mother as the most emotionally charged moment during filming. "Anyone would shed tears if they witnessed such profound family love firsthand," he shared. "The meeting between Mike and his mother was a poignant moment filled with deep emotions. Seeing them made me think a lot about my own aging mother."

He described his bond with Mike as if he were his own younger brother, wishing to share his Korean experiences wholeheartedly. "I hope Mike maintains good relationships with his birth family in Korea, as well as with his adoptive family in the US," Choi Soo-jong expressed. "I also wish to meet him again soon to share a meal of bulgogi and cold noodles, just like we did before, and catch up on life."

Finally, Choi Soo-jong encouraged viewers to tune in, promising, "On 'Puzzle Trip,' you will be able to witness the love of family, and rediscover the emotion of 'love' that we often overlook despite it being so close. I hope you find it through 'Puzzle Trip'."

Netizens reacted positively to Choi Soo-jong's sincere interview, with comments like, "Actor Choi Soo-jong's heart is so warm," "I have to watch the broadcast," and "This program seems truly supportive for adoptees abroad."