Legendary Comedian Jeon Yu-seong Passes Away at 76, Remembered as a Pioneer and Mentor

Jeon Yu-seong, widely hailed as the 'godfather of comedy' in Korea, has passed away at the age of 76. He was a true pioneer, constantly striving to create new forms of entertainment and generously supporting aspiring comedians.

Initially pursuing acting, Jeon transitioned to the comedy scene after facing numerous audition rejections. He began his broadcasting career as a writer, later becoming a vital support figure for the stars of the 1980s comedy boom with his sharp ideas.

A memorable segment from the mid-1990s SBS show 'Good Friends,' titled 'Make Jeon Yu-seong Laugh,' showcased his unique persona. In this popular corner, audience members attempted to make him laugh with their performances, offering prizes to successful participants. This segment also served as the television debut for comedian Park Joon-hyung.

Recognized as the originator of KBS's hit show 'Gag Concert,' Jeon was instrumental in bringing small-theater comedy to the broadcast television format. Through his comedy troupe 'Comedy Market,' he discovered and nurtured talents like Ahn Sang-tae and Kim Min-kyung, humbly stating that he merely identified those destined for success.

Jeon Yu-seong's keen eye for talent led him to become a benefactor for numerous celebrities. He played a crucial role in the early careers of artists like Lee Moon-sae and Joo Byung-jin, singer Kim Hyun-sik, and comedian Paeng Hyun-sook. Later, he mentored up-and-coming stars such as Jo Se-ho and Kim Shin-young, and even personally cast actress Han Chae-young.

He was also known for his innovative business ventures, including late-night bowling alleys and cinemas. His 1999 book, 'Everything You're Told Not to Do Is Fun,' featured imaginative ideas like selling canned fresh air and establishing beer gas stations. His book on computers even earned him an award from the Ministry of Information and Communication.

His recent appearance on the YouTube channel 'Jong-eun,' hosted by Kim Yong-man, Ji Suk-jin, and Kim Soo-yong, two months prior to his passing, became his final broadcast.

Jeon Yu-seong was hospitalized due to worsening symptoms of spontaneous pneumothorax. He sadly passed away on the evening of the 25th. His wake is being held at Seoul Asan Medical Center, with a memorial ceremony planned at KBS, his primary stage, before his final resting place in a forest burial site in Namwon.

Jeon Yu-seong's career began in 1969 with a role in the film 'The Sky,' but he soon shifted his focus to television broadcasting and comedy writing. He played a pivotal role in shaping the Korean comedy landscape from the late 1970s onward. His generous mentorship and innovative spirit earned him the respected title of 'godfather of comedy' among his peers.