Jang Na-ra Joins 'House on Wheels' for First Fixed Variety Show in 24-Year Career

tvN's new travel reality show, 'House on Wheels Beyond the Sea: Hokkaido,' is set to premiere on October 12th, and a highlight reel has just been released, sparking anticipation. The show welcomes actress Jang Na-ra as a new cast member, marking her very first fixed variety program appearance in her 24-year career.

'House on Wheels' centers on the unique concept of traveling with one's own 'house on wheels.' This season, the adventure expands beyond Korea to the scenic landscapes of Hokkaido, Japan, promising a global exploration. Following a three-year hiatus since Season 4 in 2022, the returning cast, including original members Sung Dong-il and Kim Hee-won, will be joined by Jang Na-ra, creating fresh dynamics.

The released highlight video opens with the familiar sight of the 'house on wheels' arriving in Hokkaido, accompanied by Sung Dong-il's excited declaration, "You'll never see a car like this here!" The exotic scenery of Hokkaido unfolds, enhancing the viewer's sense of wonder and curiosity about the stories that will unfold.

Sung Dong-il and Kim Hee-won exude their seasoned 'host' charisma, doubling the excitement. Sung Dong-il expressed a touching sentiment, "It feels peculiar, after so long. I'm getting choked up," before playfully adding, "Maybe I shouldn't have come," eliciting laughter with his signature tsundere humor. Their familiar bickering, with Sung Dong-il teasing Kim Hee-won about his all-black outfit resembling a crow, and Kim Hee-won falsely accusing Sung Dong-il of receiving a message from his youngest daughter, further showcases their endearing chemistry.

Newcomer Jang Na-ra steals the spotlight with her quirky and innocent charm. Despite Sung Dong-il's sharp observation that she seemed to have "something in her mouth the whole trip, except when speaking," she adamantly denied it while continuing to playfully chew, causing amusement. Her reason for joining the show, "I heard there's delicious ice cream here," added another layer of humor.

Jang Na-ra shared her feelings about taking on a fixed variety role for the first time: "I've never done a fixed variety show before. While others might just think, 'Oh, she's just doing a variety show,' I started this with a tremendous amount of courage. It's a bit challenging, but it's so fascinating. I'm seeing so many things and meeting people I wouldn't have encountered if I hadn't made this decision; it feels like a new world."

The highlight reel concludes with glimpses of the cast enjoying local delicacies, visiting residents, exploring Hokkaido's nature, and forming new connections, building anticipation for their journey. 'House on Wheels Beyond the Sea: Hokkaido' premieres October 12th at 7:40 PM KST.

Jang Na-ra debuted as a singer in 2001 with the hit song 'Confession.' She quickly transitioned into acting, gaining widespread popularity with her role in the sitcom 'Nonstop.' Her acting career has been marked by numerous successful dramas, including 'My Love Patzzi' and 'Fated to Love You.'