Former Single's Inferno contestant and basketball player Lee Kwan Hee made a surprising claim, saying he is a "prince from the Philippines."

On October 27, the JTBC show Extreme Tour showcased Lee Kwan Hee's travel adventures in the Philippines alongside Physical: 100 Season 2 winner, Amoti. The two arrived in the colorful rural village of Laguna early in the morning.

Lee Kwan Hee jokingly told Amoti, who was showing off his tanned and muscular arms in a sleeveless shirt, “You’re in the Philippines, but you look more local than me.” While Amoti fit right in with the local vibe, Lee Kwan Hee showed off his knowledge of Philippine culture.

Having played in the Philippine basketball league in the past, Lee Kwan Hee confidently declared, “I was a prince in the Philippines about 6 or 7 years ago.”

However, the show’s MCs were doubtful, saying, “We need to verify the Philippine prince claim.” Lee Kwan Hee responded with a grin, “I couldn't walk around the city in the Philippines. I was a Philippine prince!” He felt wronged by their disbelief.

Kang Ji Young commented, “This is the first time I've met someone who calls themselves a prince,” to which Park Myung Soo humorously chimed in, “Aren't I here?” referring to his famous song "Prince of the Sea."

The two jokingly greeted each other, saying, “Let’s shake hands as fellow princes,” which brought laughter to everyone around.

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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!

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