'Home Alone' Navigates Post-Park Na-rae Era with New Member Kim Ha-seong; Viewers Divided

MBC's popular variety show 'Home Alone' (also known as 'I Live Alone') is entering a new phase following the departure of its long-time cast member, Park Na-rae.

The broadcast on the 12th featured the debut of Major League Baseball player Kim Ha-seong as a new 'Rainbow Club' member, capturing the audience's attention.

Behind-the-scenes photos released after the broadcast also became a topic of discussion. A post on Kim Ha-seong's management SNS account showed host Jun Hyun-moo enthusiastically receiving an autographed uniform from Kim, reminiscent of a fan meet-and-greet.

Viewers have expressed mixed reactions, with some commenting, "'Home Alone' is running fine without Park Na-rae," while others noted, "It feels empty without her."

Park Na-rae had been a significant figure on the show since 2016, co-leading it to its peak and even winning the MBC Entertainment Daesang in 2019.

However, due to recent controversies, she stepped down from the program. Despite the sensitive situation, the show continues as scheduled, marking a new chapter with the exit of a key member and the arrival of a new one. While the filming set appeared full of laughter, the audience's reception remains divided.

Netizens shared varied comments online, such as "It's honestly a bit sad without Park Na-rae on Home Alone" and "But Kim Ha-seong was funny, I'm looking forward to more." Others chimed in with, "The show must go on! I support the new members."