Actor Hyun Bong-sik to Host Episode 5 of 'SNL Korea Season 7' on Coupang Play

Actor Hyun Bong-sik to Host Episode 5 of 'SNL Korea Season 7' on Coupang Play

South Korean actor Hyun Bong-sik has been confirmed as the host for the fifth episode of SNL Korea Season 7, which will stream on Coupang Play on May 3 at 8 p.m. Known for his versatility across film and stage, Hyun is expected to bring a fresh comedic energy to the live sketch show. Fans can attend the live recording by applying through Coupang’s “Couple Club” program.

Debuting in the 2014 film The Pirates, Hyun built his reputation as a scene-stealing character actor through projects such as 1987 and the box office hit The Roundup: Punishment. His recent roles in Coupang Play’s workplace comedy Office Workers and the black comedy film Lobby have propelled his popularity, particularly among younger viewers. His quirky visual style and impromptu acting in Office Workers have even sparked viral memes online.

In Lobby, Hyun played a surveillance-prone priest named Father Garsini, showcasing his aptitude for blending tension and humor in dark narratives. With extensive stage experience, his transition to live comedy in SNL Korea is being viewed as a natural yet bold expansion of his acting repertoire. Industry watchers are paying close attention to how his timing and improvisational skills will translate on a live stage.

Commenting on the opportunity, Hyun said through his agency DY Entertainment, “It feels like a dream to stand on the stage of SNL Korea, a legendary show in Korean comedy. Though I’m nervous, I’ll give my all to bring laughter alongside Shin Dong-yup and the crew.” According to reports, the actor is currently immersed in rehearsal sessions and character studies.

Online buzz has been building, with fans expressing excitement: “Hyun Bong-sik on SNL is a must-watch,” and “The meme king finally hits the stage.” Viewers are curious to see how an actor known for his intense dramatic roles will adapt to the spontaneous and playful format of sketch comedy.

Cultural critics have highlighted the significance of Hyun’s move, noting that Korean content increasingly values multifaceted performers. “Hyun Bong-sik reflects a growing trend where actors are not confined by genre,” said entertainment critic Jung Woo-suk. “He exemplifies the modern Korean actor’s flexibility.”

This follows similar moves by other actors such as Kim Mu-yeol, who gained unexpected acclaim for his comedic chops on earlier seasons of SNL Korea. The participation of mid-career actors in comedy formats signals a broader shift in Korean entertainment, where genre boundaries are increasingly fluid.

Hyun’s foray into comedy may also impact the broader K-content industry. As OTT platforms like Coupang Play diversify their programming, actors’ genre crossovers can attract a wider demographic and boost engagement. His appearance is seen as part of Coupang’s strategy to elevate the platform’s content profile.

Looking ahead, Hyun’s comedic outing could pave the way for future appearances in similar formats or even lead to stand-alone variety shows. His adaptive style makes him a strong candidate for cross-genre productions, reinforcing his position as a dynamic figure in the entertainment landscape.

Ultimately, Hyun Bong-sik’s turn on SNL Korea represents more than a guest appearance—it’s a calculated step in a growing movement of genre-bending talent development in Korean entertainment. His live comedy debut could serve as a key milestone in an already multifaceted career.

 

Source: Coupang Play