Leaving the glamorous stage behind, Lim Young-woong embarked on a healing trip to Somodo, Wando-gun with his close friends, transforming into the 'Pollution-Free Island Bachelor' and showcasing his charm.
Even before the broadcast, Lim Young-woong's new side was anticipated, and the first episode of SBS's 'Island Bachelor Hero' recorded a 1.1% viewership rating among the 2049 demographic and a 5.4% rating among households in the metropolitan area, reflecting the immense interest and securing the top spot in its time slot, as well as the number one position in Tuesday entertainment in the metropolitan area.
On this day, Lim Young-woong traveled to Somodo, Wando-gun with 'Scientist (Obsessed with) Orbit' and 'Iron Chef' Im Tae-hoon. The combination of the three close friends, who know each other's 'true selves' well, drew attention. Lim Young-woong revealed the reason for the trip, saying, "I thought it would be nice for the three of us to go somewhere remote and have serious and good conversations."
The three of them set off early in the morning to catch the first boat to the island. Realizing that there were no supermarkets, convenience stores, or restaurants, and that they would have to cook for themselves, they expressed both surprise and excitement at the 'self-sufficient' concept.
Whenever the opportunity arose, Orbit tried to engage in scientific discussions, to which Lim Young-woong responded, "We did it more than five times in 30 minutes. The science talk will probably be edited out, so it's okay," showcasing their 'true friend' vibe. Looking out at the sea from the boat, Lim Young-woong reminisced, "I used to go to a lot of cruise events when I was unknown, and it brings back a lot of memories."
Upon arriving at the island and searching for their house, the bachelors struggled with steep slopes and stairs that couldn't accommodate their luggage, but they couldn't help but admire the view from their house, which faced the sea.
The island residents, who 'met' Lim Young-woong in person, rushed out barefoot to embrace him, expressing their joy and eliciting laughter. After finishing their village walk and greetings, the three took a break due to their tiring schedule that started early in the morning. Lim Young-woong expressed satisfaction, saying, "I'm usually not good at falling asleep, but here I feel so at ease that I fell asleep as soon as I lay down. I think my stamina has been replenished."
Meanwhile, Orbit gifted friendship t-shirts that represented each of their characters using elemental symbols. Additionally, Orbit's friend Lee Yi-kyung surprised them by joining as a 'surprise guest.' Arriving with a bundle of ingredients, Lee Yi-kyung easily made a fireplace with bricks and showcased unexpected cooking skills, earning recognition as Im Tae-hoon's versatile assistant.
However, after tasting the first pot rice made by 'Iron Chef' Im Tae-hoon, Lee Yi-kyung humorously criticized, "Is it because it's Chinese food? The smoky flavor is great. It doesn't go away until the end. I think even our ancestors would spit it out if it were on the ritual table."
Orbit started by saying, "To enjoy the meat, the Maillard reaction must occur," and went on to share scientific knowledge for a while, but later in an interview, Lee Yi-kyung humorously admitted, "Was it the Neymar reaction?" showing that he had completely forgotten.
In front of a lavishly set dinner table, a cheerful Im Tae-hoon told Orbit, "Feel free to talk about science during dinner tonight," while Lim Young-woong playfully asked, "Do you want to sleep early tonight, hyung?"
Subsequently, Lim Young-woong's song 'I Am HERO,' which is included in his second regular album and serves as the main theme for 'Island Bachelor Hero,' was revealed against the backdrop of the sea, drawing attention.
At the end of the broadcast, scenes of Lim Young-woong struggling during his first-ever sea fishing challenge were previewed. The anticipation grew as the four shared their inner thoughts late at night, and Lim Young-woong's home live performance was showcased. 'Island Bachelor Hero' airs every Tuesday at 9 PM.
[Lee Da-kyum, Star Today Reporter]
