SEVENTEEN's Boo Seungkwan Becomes Volleyball Team Manager for 'New Director Kim Yeon-koung', Calls Kim 'Like a Celebrity'

SEVENTEEN member Boo Seungkwan has shared his thoughts on taking on the role of a volleyball team manager, stepping away from his idol persona, for the new MBC variety show 'New Director Kim Yeon-koung'.

The production presentation for the program was held on the 24th in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul. Former volleyball player Kim Yeon-koung, Boo Seungkwan, former volleyball player Pyo Seung-ju, and PD Kwon Rak-hee attended the event, hosted by Park Kyung-lim, to discuss the show.

Boo Seungkwan will serve as the team manager, affectionately nicknamed 'Bbu Manager', alongside director Kim Yeon-koung. Widely known as a long-time fan of Kim Yeon-koung even during her active playing career, Boo Seungkwan has garnered attention for his emotional reactions to the women's volleyball team's advancement to the semi-finals at the Tokyo Olympics.

"As someone who has loved professional volleyball since its inception in 2005, I was a fan of one specific team until her last season," Boo Seungkwan revealed with a laugh. "Because of that, I felt like I was doing something wrong towards player Yeon-koung. But deciding to do this broadcast, I thought I should show that I'm a fan of volleyball, not just a specific team."

He humorously added, "As you'll see in the teaser, I was a nuisance from the start. How bothersome was it to have me cheering for the opposing team and hanging around?" He continued, "As the manager for the Wonderdogs, I worked hard to score points. I think our chemistry will really shine through in every episode. Although she might seem blunt and gruff, I can feel her affection for me. If she says something too sweet, it feels awkward, even more so."

Boo Seungkwan further expressed his excitement, stating, "My MBTI is the ultimate 'N'. I've lived imagining this day. I was so happy to be with director Kim Yeon-koung, player Seung-ju, and many other volleyball players. I was thrilled to be able to support them as a manager. They were like celebrities to me. I was so excited before entering the set. I was happy throughout filming. I'm still happy now."

Regarding his manager duties, he explained, "A manager is part of the volleyball team and provides maximum support when players train or compete. This includes setting up uniforms in the locker room, preparing training plans with the coaching staff, boosting players during games, wiping sweat, and even acting as a mental coach. I'm not at the level to strategize, so I tried to help in a way that wouldn't be disruptive."

'New Director Kim Yeon-koung' is set to premiere on the 28th at 9:10 PM KST.

Boo Seungkwan previously revealed his fan admiration for volleyball player Kim Yeon-koung on the MBC show 'King of Mask Singer'. He has also frequently shown himself watching volleyball matches on his YouTube channel, 'Boo Seungkwan's Passionate Snack Bar', continuing his journey as a dedicated volleyball fan. His passion for the sport has evolved beyond a hobby, leading him to take on a professional role in this variety program.