Director Jung, who left Park Myungsoo, shares update: "It was very difficult after that"

Reflecting on the 'Infinite Challenge' era: "Members took good care of the staff... Yoo Jae-suk is still called 'Maengkkongi hyung'"

Former manager Jung Seok-kwon appeared on the YouTube channel 'Geunhwang Olympics' to share his recent updates. Photo by YouTube channel 'Geunhwang Olympics' capture

[Asia Economy Online Issue Team] Comedian Park Myung-soo's former manager, Director Jung (Jung Seok-kwon), shared an update on his current situation.

On the 2nd, a video titled "Meeting Infinite Challenge's Director Jung" was released on the YouTube channel 'Geunhwang Olympics'.

Director Jung is known for a legendary moment during the airing of MBC's "Infinite Challenge," where he caught a pen thrown by Park Myung-soo, earning the nickname "Poison Needle Collector" among netizens.

When asked, "You must have many memories from 'Infinite Challenge,'" he recalled, "Everyone?the staff, all the members, and everyone appearing on the show?had a really hard time back then." Director Jung said, "We usually filmed for about a week to produce just one episode. I was right there, so I know well how much effort went into making that one episode."

He continued, "The members took good care of the staff and managers. They even covered the entire meal expenses and took care of staff's family events. Even now, Yoo Jae-suk calls me 'Maengkkongi hyung' (Brother Maengkkongi)," he shared.

When Director Jung got married in 2008, the "Infinite Challenge" members attended as guests, creating a big buzz. He said, "Haha was serving in the military but sang a congratulatory song, and Park Myung-soo hosted the event. Kim Jong-kook, Kim Yong-man, and Ji Seok-jin also came, but I think they came more to see Park Myung-soo than me. I’m thankful to Park Myung-soo."

Director Jung also mentioned the difficulties he faced after leaving Park Myung-soo’s side. He said, "I am over 50 years old. The age gap between me and the directors and staff on site made things uncomfortable," adding, "So I worked as a manager in the music industry, but it was very tough. The difference between having Park Myung-soo and not having him was not just like heaven and earth, but like heaven and the universe."

Regarding his recent status, he said, "Due to COVID-19, I took a break for over a year. I had some negative thoughts, but one day I saw the light," and added, "I am producing a trot girl group. Although I am starting again, I am confident that I can do well." He concluded with his aspirations, saying, "I hope those struggling because of COVID-19 overcome it well. I will also overcome it and make our singers successful."