Jeon Hyun-moo, amidst Kazakhstan manipulation controversy.. Director Shim Hyung-jun: "A person who enjoys unfamiliar situations" [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.

Broadcast personality Jeon Hyun-moo has become embroiled in controversy over alleged manipulation of a Kazakhstan trip featured on MBC variety program 'I Live Alone,' prompting director Shim Hyung-jun to come to his defense.

Shim Hyung-jun, who directed Season 1 of MBN's 'Jeon Hyun-moo Plan,' stated on his SNS on the 26th: "A few years ago, I went down to Namhae with Hyun-moo without any specific plan. We ended up stopping in Jin-do and eventually reached Song Ga-in's hometown. By luck, we even met Song Ga-in's father. Nothing was predetermined from the start, but because there was no plan, unexpected events kept unfolding, making the trip even more enjoyable."

He continued: "Hyun-moo naturally enjoys impromptu travel. He just goes and sees what happens. It could be domestic or overseas. Once, he went to Fukuoka, Japan without any prior arrangements. He rented a car in Fukuoka and drove to Yufuin, but upon arrival, he found that all hotels were fully booked due to the overwhelming number of tourists. In the end, unable to find lodging, he nearly had to sleep on the street."

He added: "That trip without a plan led to unexpected difficulties. Yet, even in such situations, this person did not panic or show fear. Driving in Japan was likely challenging since the driver's seat and steering wheel are on the opposite side compared to Korea, yet he handled renting a car with ease. Driving in an unfamiliar country was no big deal for him. Instead of being troubled, it seemed he enjoyed the situation itself by driving the car to new places."

Director Shim remarked: "Hyun-moo's travels have always been like this. He sets off without a plan, which inevitably leads to unexpected events. Sometimes he ends up in difficult situations where he can't find lodging, but ultimately turns even those experiences into part of the journey. There seems to be much discussion about his Kazakhstan trip on 'I Live Alone,' but to me, it doesn't look out of character."

He further shared: "His habit of moving without a plan, going to unexpected places, and creating unforeseen incidents is nothing different from what I've seen of him for a long time. He truly lives in an eccentric way. He's genuinely funny, entertaining, and there's never a dull moment when you're with him."

Previously, on the 14th, MBC's 'I Live Alone' featured Jeon Hyun-moo embarking on an impromptu one-night, two-day trip to Kazakhstan. At the airport, he purchased a flight ticket on the spot without any prior preparations and even booked accommodation and a rental car for his journey.

However, following the broadcast, some netizens pointed out that the process of renting a local car appeared staged, sparking controversy over alleged manipulation. In response, the 'I Live Alone' team clarified: "Jeon Hyun-moo's Kazakhstan trip was exactly as shown on air. Just before departing for Kazakhstan, he submitted an international driving permit and passport required by a local rental car company at the airport and rented a vehicle accordingly. There is no truth to claims that we received filming support or sponsorship related to this trip."

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*This content was translated by AI.