Today (10th), KBS unveiled the faces of 14 newcomers who successfully passed the final selection for the 34th class of new comedians.
On February 28, 14 new comedians were finally selected. Since starting the comedy contest in 1982, KBS has brought many young dreamers aspiring to be comedians to the stage, and it is the only terrestrial broadcaster that maintains a public recruitment system for comedians.
A total of 450 applicants participated in the 34th public recruitment for comedians, which took place over a month from January 13 to February 28, achieving a remarkable competition rate of 32 to 1. The selection process included a first round of document screening, followed by practical interviews and final interviews. As they sought to recruit talented individuals with both skills and charisma, a diverse range of applicants, regardless of gender, age, or profession, applied. The youngest applicant was 17 years old, and the oldest was 55, with backgrounds ranging from YouTubers, models, active military personnel, chefs, to former athletes, all knocking on KBS's door with big dreams.
Lee Jae-hyun, the PD of 'Gag Concert', stated, "We plan to fill the stage with corners that can make all generations laugh, from slapstick genres to sketch comedy," and added, "We carefully selected individuals who align with our production direction and will bring vitality to the program."
Na Hyun-young, a comedian from the 33rd class who debuted on the 'Gag Concert' stage in November of the same year after passing the final interview in 2023, expressed her joy, saying, "I heard the good news while preparing for a corner in the research building's meeting room all day. I want to create enjoyable synergy with my juniors in the future."
Kim Ga-eun, a newcomer who has dreamed of being a comedian since childhood, smiled brightly, saying, "I am thrilled to be able to unfold my dreams on the 'Gag Concert' stage." Ahn Hyun-woo, who made it onto the list of successful candidates after a second attempt, declared, "I will work hard so that the national entertainment show 'Gag Concert' permeates the viewers in the year of the blue snake in 2025," expressing his determination. The 14 comedians who passed the final selection will sign exclusive contracts with KBS and begin their activities.
Meanwhile, 'Gag Concert' will be broadcast every Sunday at 9:20 PM starting from the 16th.