Actor Lee Sung-min is currently gaining massive popularity for showing a new side of himself in recent variety show appearances, leaving audiences to wonder why the seasoned actor did not join the travel entertainment scene sooner. His first experience in the travel entertainment scene has been filled with strong audience feedback, high view counts, and even rumors of possible awards.
Lee Sung-min participated in episodes aired on Jan. 24 and Jan. 31 of the YouTube travel variety show "Punghyanggo 2," which is broadcast on the YouTube channel "Tteun Tteun."
The show features Yoo Jae-suk, Lee Sung-min, Ji Suk-jin, and Yang Se-chan going on a trip to Europe without booking any accommodations or using travel apps. The show is based on the original "Punghyanggo" variety show, which aired the first season featuring actor Hwang Jung-min in the first season, as reported by xportsnews.
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During their visit to Vienna, Austria, at the height of the pre-Christmas travel season, the cast struggled to secure accommodations. In those moments, Lee stood out by quickly finding directions, communicating with hotel staff, and calmly leading the group. He also displayed a caring, almost paternal demeanor by looking after both the cast and crew before and after the trip, xportsnews reported.
Another unexpected highlight was Lee's affection for his pet cat, which he began raising last year. Throughout the journey, he repeatedly referenced his cat, even jokingly comparing luxury items he encountered to things his pet might enjoy. This detail added to what viewers described as a surprising and endearing "cat butler" charm.
Performance metrics underscored the show's popularity. The first episode of "Punghyanggo 2" recorded 7.97 million views, while the second drew 4.94 million views as of Feb. 2. When aired a day later on ENA, the program posted a 2% viewership rating—roughly five times the channel's average over the prior three months, according to Chosun Biz.
On SBS's "My Little Old Boy," Lee maintained his momentum as he embarked for Kazakhstan alongside Kim Jong-soo, Kim Sung-kyun, and Bae Jeong-nam.
Explaining his reluctance after being assigned the role of handling shared expenses, Lee voiced his frustration, saying, "Why are you asking me to do this? What do you want me to do when you call people over and ask them to count the money?" Despite early mishaps, he ultimately fulfilled the role, drawing laughs and sympathy, Chosun Biz noted.
Reflecting on his recent recognition, Lee previously shared his feelings after receiving a Rookie of the Year award at last year's "Punggye High School Awards."
Speaking about the moment, he said, "I'm at an age where life gets languid, but after receiving the Rookie of the Year award, I feel like I have new goals and am more energetic." With viewers now speculating about a potential 2026 grand prize, attention is focused on what new paths Lee Sung-min may explore next.
