Heo Seong-tae Tops 'Unpopular People's Club' Interview, 'How Do You Play?' Maintains Saturday Variety Slot

Actor Heo Seong-tae leveraged his background from a major corporation to claim first place in the 'Unpopular People's Club (In.Sa.Mo)' project's high-pressure interview challenge.

The episode of MBC's 'How Do You Play?', aired on the 13th, showcased the 'In.Sa.Mo' members undertaking an impromptu mission to test their adaptability and preparing unique reverse-fringe gifts for their fan meeting. The members' charm and unpredictable antics provided ample laughter for viewers.

The broadcast recorded a 2.0% viewership rating in the key demographic of 2049, an increase from the previous week, solidifying its position as the top Saturday variety show. The highest minute-by-minute rating reached 4.8% in the Seoul metropolitan area.

While 'How Do You Play?' has been showing a steady rise, recently hitting the high 3% range nationwide, ratings are still less than half of the peak 6.6% achieved during the '80's Seoul Music Festival' project. Concerns were previously raised about viewership following the departure of fixed cast member Lee Yi-kyung.

However, the 'In.Sa.Mo' project has injected new energy, with members gaining significant attention. Hur Kyung-hwan is even being discussed as a potential new fixed cast member, and Jung Joon-ha secured first place in the 'In.Sa.Mo' popularity poll. Heo Seong-tae and other 'In.Sa.Mo' members are also contributing to the show's vitality with their comedic talents.

Faced with interview scenarios, the 'In.Sa.Mo' members responded with distinctive approaches. Tukutz confidently asserted his role within Epik High, while Haha displayed quick wit by playfully challenging the interviewers. Han Sang-jin earned the nickname 'Han-jang-jin' for his lengthy answers.

Heo Seong-tae, drawing on his experience at companies like L and D, impressed the interviewers with his fluent Russian and real-world marketing experience in Russia when asked to 'sell himself.' Kim Gwang-gyu, despite his background as a special forces instructor, offered a surprisingly endearing performance with clumsy kicks and a coughing fit. Choi Hong-man humorously refused to introduce himself beyond his name, showcasing his unique presence.

Jung Joon-ha, who ranked first in the second popularity poll, generated bursts of laughter by acting out being scolded during his solo interview. He then confidently discussed his balloon show performance and playfully gossiped about fellow members Kim Gwang-gyu and Han Sang-jin.

Meanwhile, the members showed their appreciation for fans by preparing 100 heads of napa cabbage kimchi. While making kimchi, they discussed potential Christmas carol covers, mentioning songs like EXO's 'First Snow' and IU's ' 미리 메리 크리스마스 (Merry Christmas Ahead)'. Jung Joon-ha naturally emerged as the main vocalist due to his impressive singing skills. Yoo Jae-suk expressed concern about having leftover kimchi, raising anticipation for the fan meeting.

Ideas for individual performances were also shared. Choi Hong-man sang a song for his crush, and Kim Gwang-gyu was recommended to perform Sung Si-kyung's 'Every Moment of You.' Yoo Jae-seok suggested Heo Seong-tae perform a G-Dragon-esque stage, generating excitement. Haha proposed a collaboration with Chae Rina, further piquing interest in the upcoming individual performances.

The preview for the next episode features the 'In.Sa.Mo' members rehearsing their individual stages ahead of their fan meeting. 'How Do You Play?' airs every Saturday at 6:30 PM.

Netizens reacted positively, with comments like, "Heo Seong-tae's corporate background is truly impressive!", "The chemistry among the 'In.Sa.Mo' members looks great", and "The kimchi reverse-fringe gift idea is the best! Lucky fans!".