Actor Choo Young Woo is set to make a much-anticipated return to TVN's You Quiz on the Block on June 18, six years after his brief but memorable appearance as a student on the popular variety show.
Choo, now considered one of Korea's most promising young actors, first appeared on the show for just 33 seconds in a street interview segment.
Despite the fleeting moment, his quiet charisma captured the attention of viewers.
Host Yoo Jae-suk welcomed him back warmly, calling Choo "a true star born from You Quiz."
Now 25, Choo returns not as a student, but as a leading man in Korean drama, with breakout roles in The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call and The Tale of Lady Ok.
During the episode, he reflects on his transformation from a Korean history tutor into a rising actor and opens up about the difficulties he faced on his journey.
"I failed more than 100 auditions," Choo shared, recalling years of rejection and financial struggle. "I worked part-time jobs, like being a security guard at a luxury store and a parking attendant, to make ends meet."
The episode also delves into Choo's family history.
His father, Choo Seung-il, was a renowned model in the 1990s, and his younger brother, Choo Jung-woo, has also pursued a career in modeling. "It wasn't easy growing up in that shadow, but it gave me a lot of strength," Choo said.
Choo will also reveal that he once turned down a casting offer from JYP Entertainment, choosing instead to study acting at the Korea National University of Arts. "I knew deep down I wanted to act," he said. "It wasn't about the fastest path—it was about the right one."
The show will feature behind-the-scenes stories from Choo's recent projects, including working alongside actor Ju Ji-hoon in The Trauma Code.
Choo also opens up about his ideal type and his dating style, offering fans a rare glimpse into his personal life.
In a special moment, You Quiz will air the live performance that was originally edited out from Choo's 2019 appearance. "Back then, no one knew who I was," he said. "Now, sharing that stage again feels surreal."
You Quiz on the Block airs Wednesdays at 8:45 p.m. on tvN.
