'Morning Yard' Celebrates 10,000 Episodes with Yoon Soo-hyun as New MC

KBS1TV's long-running morning talk show, 'Morning Yard,' which boasts a 34-year history, has reached its 10,000th episode and announced plans for future evolution.

At a press conference held today (24th) to commemorate the milestone, hosts Uhm Ji-in and Park Chul-gyu, alongside singer Yoon Soo-hyun, broadcaster Kim Hye-young, Gugak artist Nam Sang-il, and PD Kim Dae-hyun, shared their aspirations for new MC collaborations and the program's future direction.

Since its debut in 1991, 'Morning Yard' has aired approximately 10,000 episodes, featuring diverse stories and events. The program officially announced the addition of trot singer Yoon Soo-hyun as the new MC for the Friday segment, 'Ssang Ssang Party.' This marks the first time a female trot singer will host a segment on 'Morning Yard,' drawing significant attention.

Yoon Soo-hyun, already an established artist with hit songs and broadcasting experience, sees this MC appointment as a significant expansion of her career. Her approachable image, stable hosting skills, vibrant personality, and musical sensibility are expected to inject fresh vitality into 'Ssang Ssang Party' and the entire show.

Expressing her honor, Yoon Soo-hyun stated, "It is an honor to become an MC for 'Morning Yard,' a representative national program of Korea. As a trot singer loved by the middle-aged and elderly, and a program I've always wanted to appear on, this holds even deeper meaning." She added, "I will do my best to bring energy to Friday mornings." She also vowed, "I want to fill a different role than the announcers, using my unique energy to open Friday mornings vibrantly. I hope to receive feedback like, 'Seeing Yoon Soo-hyun gives me energy and makes me feel good.'"

PD Kim Dae-hyun attributed the 10,000-episode milestone to viewer support and emphasized the program's continuous evolution. Regarding Yoon Soo-hyun's casting, he explained it as a strategic move "to broaden engagement with younger demographics." He anticipates that "Yoon Soo-hyun's energy and unconventional style will bring new life to the Friday segment."

In celebration of its 10,000th episode, 'Morning Yard' has planned a five-part special series running from August 29th to October 3rd, including public recordings with audiences. The possibility of appearances by former MCs like Lee Kum-hee and Son Bum-soo, as well as singer Lim Young-woong, has further heightened anticipation.

While balancing the expectations of long-time viewers and new audiences amidst these changes presents a challenge, attention is focused on whether 'Morning Yard' can re-emerge as a program that embraces new trends while maintaining its rich legacy.

Yoon Soo-hyun gained significant popularity with her 2014 hit song 'Cheontae Man-sang,' establishing herself as a rising star in the trot music scene. Her exceptional vocal talent and stage presence have earned her widespread acclaim through various broadcasts and performances. This new role as an MC for 'Morning Yard' is expected to be a pivotal step in broadening her presence in the entertainment industry.