Actor Kang Tae Oh, who has recently completed his military service, is gearing up for his next project.

Reported by OSEN on March 18, Kang Tae Oh has officially joined the cast of the upcoming tvN drama titled 'Potato Lab' (translated English title).

Waste no time, as he is set to jump straight into filming. 'Potato Lab' is a romantic comedy set in a rural potato research institute, where Kang Tae Oh will portray an outsider protagonist known for his striking visuals and unexpected charms.

In his previous project 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo,' where he starred as the male lead Lee Joon Ho, Kang Tae Oh captivated audiences with his endearing and sweet portrayal, earning him the affectionate title of the "nation's sweetheart."

The drama achieved an impressive viewership rating of 17.5% (based on Nielsen Korea nationwide), solidifying Kang Tae Oh's position as a genuine "rising star."

Following his service at the 37th Division Training Center in Jeungpyeong County, Kang Tae Oh completed his basic military training and served as a drill instructor for the remainder of his service period.

'Potato Lab' marks the reunion of writer Kim Ho Soo and director Kang Il Soo from MBC's 'Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung' and is highly anticipated to premiere on tvN in the first half of 2024.

Are you looking forward to Kang Tae Oh's comeback to the small screen?

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Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

Source: [1]