‘Knowing Bros’ Celebrates 500 Episodes: PD Hwang Je-min and Writer Hwang Seon-young Share Gratitude and Future Plans

JTBC's flagship entertainment program, ‘Knowing Bros,’ is set to commemorate its 500th episode on September 20th. Since its debut in December 2015, the show has solidified its status as JTBC's longest-running program, maintaining its strong presence with the unique concept of 'bros and transfer students.'

Leading up to its 500th episode, ‘Knowing Bros’ has demonstrated its enduring popularity by consistently ranking in the Top 10 for non-drama content buzz and securing the 5th position this week. In recognition of this milestone, the production team hosted a special live recording, inviting 500 viewers who have been with the show for over a decade to express their gratitude. The 500th episode special will be broadcast in two parts on the 20th and 27th.

In a written interview, main director Hwang Je-min and writer Hwang Seon-young shared their thoughts on reaching 500 episodes and outlined future plans. Director Hwang Je-min, who joined at episode 419, remarked, “The time built by the senior team members felt weighty. I felt a responsibility commensurate with that weight and prepared diligently. I believe we've created a 500th episode special that viewers can look forward to.”

Writer Hwang Seon-young expressed, “It feels like yesterday we were worried if we could even make it to 50 episodes, and now we've reached 500. I am simply grateful. The continued support from our viewers is the biggest reason we've reached this milestone, and it feels truly wondrous.” Both highlighted the 'power of the bros' and 'continuous effort to entertain viewers weekly' as key factors for the show's longevity.

Notably, for the 500th episode celebration, 500 audience members were invited to join the festivities. Director Hwang stated, “This milestone is entirely thanks to our viewers. We've prepared abundantly so they can experience the essence of ‘Knowing Bros’ content accumulated over 499 episodes.” Writer Hwang added, “Hearing that nearly ten thousand people applied to attend gave me goosebumps. It made me realize that ‘Knowing Bros’ is a program built and nurtured together with our viewers, reinforcing our resolve to work even harder.”

Moving forward, ‘Knowing Bros’ aims to deliver even greater laughter by experimenting with new guest combinations and developing talk segments. Director Hwang expressed his hope that the show will remain “a long-time friend that stays by the viewers' side.”

Director Hwang Je-min joined ‘Knowing Bros’ at episode 419, injecting fresh energy into the program. Writer Hwang Seon-young is one of the key figures who have led the show's successful long-term run. Together, they play a crucial role in maximizing the show's unique world and chemistry with its guests.