Comedian Yoon Hyung-bin could soon find himself in the ring against singer Kim Jong-kook, after his recent high-profile victory over Banzz.

On August 10, the YouTube channel ‘Jodongari’ released its 52nd episode titled: “Next up for Jodongari is Jim Jongkook. Would you like to face off in the ring? Gagman + Fighter = ‘Gaiter’ Yoon Hyung-bin.” In the newly released video, Yoon showcased his versatile persona, from determined fighter to bold entrepreneur.

Yoon detailed the backstory behind his recent showdown with Banzz, a former judo athlete, in a much-anticipated match where the loser’s YouTube channel would be deleted. Yoon explained that he spent one month intensely training in grappling, wrestling, and boosting his stamina. However, in a twist, Banzz chose to focus on striking instead, and Yoon secured a TKO victory just 1 minute and 42 seconds into the fight.

Fellow comedian Kim Soo-yong commented on Yoon’s ears, noting that his wrestling practice had left him with characteristic ‘cauliflower ears’ often seen in fighters. Yoon wittily responded that his wasn’t quite ‘cauliflower ear’ but more of a ‘flat dumpling ear,’ sparking laughter among the group.

Yoon credited his ‘fighting DNA’ to his father, a former taekwondo athlete, sharing a story from the 1988 Seoul Olympics when his father performed a spinning kick on a Kuwaiti taekwondo competitor in the street, capturing everyone’s attention.

Yoon also shed light on some hidden ‘tough guys’ of the entertainment world, naming actor Lee Jae-yoon, comedians Lee Moon-jae and Ahn Il-kwon, and trot singer Lee Dae-won as impressive yet unrecognized talents.

When Ji Seok-jin asked Yoon how a match with Kim Jong-kook under Road FC rules would play out, Yoon revealed that he is close friends with the director of Kim’s gym. According to the director, Yoon would likely lose in sparring, but would have the upper hand in a real fight. Yoon added humorously that, after recently sharing an elevator with Kim Jong-kook at Kim Jun-ho’s wedding, he sensed that Kim was subtly sizing him up.

As an entrepreneur and producer, Yoon also shared his unyielding passion, narrating his efforts with CoCoon, the “comedic idol group.” CoCoon achieved first place on a Japanese comedy program and was gearing up for major activities when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, abruptly halting their momentum. Undeterred, Yoon said, “Since we proved ourselves in Japan, I was sure we could succeed in the English-speaking world.” His team participated in the Adelaide Festival in Australia and the Edinburgh Festival in the UK. Although initial ticket sales were weak, word of mouth eventually led to sold-out shows. He also received an offer from a producer of “Britain’s Got Talent,” drawing further attention.

Yoon discussed his new role as head of ‘K-pop Stage,’ a performance venue dedicated to Korean music, after closing the Yoon Hyung-bin Small Theater. “We’re holding smaller events right now, and the signals are positive. It always takes time for a venue to become well-known,” he remarked. He also hinted at upcoming plans to produce an idol audition show, prompting Kim Soo-yong to joke, “I’ll link you up with a broadcast platform—let’s just do it on Jodongari,” adding a moment of levity.

Meanwhile, ‘Jodongari’ features comedians Kim Yong-man, Kim Soo-yong, and Ji Seok-jin, and drops a new episode every Sunday at 9 a.m.

Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”

Photo=MHN DB, YouTube 'Jodongari'