Kim Jong-kook's Marriage Sparks 'My Little Old Boy' Controversy: 91% Oppose Continuation

Singer Kim Jong-kook's recent marriage to a non-celebrity woman has ignited a heated debate about his continued participation in the SBS variety show 'My Little Old Boy' (MUB). Following in the footsteps of co-stars Lee Sang-min and Kim Jun-ho, who also recently married, the preview showing Kim Jong-kook addressing marriage rumors seems to be backfiring.

A poll on the portal site Nate titled 'From Marriage: Kim Jun-ho, Lee Sang-min to Kim Jong-kook Also Staying on 'My Little Old Boy'... What Do You Think?' revealed that out of approximately 3,600 participants, a staggering 91% believe that the appearance of recently married stars like Kim Jong-kook, Kim Jun-ho, and Lee Sang-min goes against the show's concept.

'My Little Old Boy' is built around the premise of mothers observing the daily lives of their unmarried celebrity sons. The inclusion of married individuals challenges the show's identity, a sentiment echoed by viewers when Kim Jun-ho and Lee Sang-min's weddings and newlywed lives were broadcast, leading to complaints about the show losing its original color.

Similarly, the SBS show 'Dolsing Fourmen,' featuring four divorced men discussing single life, faces controversy as Kim Jun-ho and Lee Sang-min have recently married, raising concerns about its relevance.

In contrast, MBC's 'I Live Alone' has successfully maintained its identity by having married cast members naturally depart, such as Lee Si-eon and Honey J, with actor Lee Jang-woo also announcing his departure before marriage. This consistent adherence to its concept has kept 'I Live Alone' at the top of observational variety shows.

Compared to these precedents, 'My Little Old Boy' and 'Dolsing Fourmen' find themselves in a difficult position. While many viewers urge for the departure of married members in favor of fresh faces, some argue that marriage doesn't necessitate immediate departure and that married individuals can still fit the 'My Little Old Boy' theme. SBS maintains that 'there have been no discussions regarding cast changes,' but the controversy is expected to persist.

Kim Jong-kook debuted in 1995 as part of the duo Turbo.

He is renowned as the 'original muscular singer,' consistently beloved for his unique healthy and powerful vocals and performances.

Recently, he garnered significant congratulations by announcing his marriage to his partner, known as the 'destined couple' on variety shows.