Lee Young-ja jumps on digital bandwagon
By Lee Han-na
Comedian and TV show host Lee Young-ja jumped on the digital bandwagon by creating a YouTube channel, becoming one among a legion of celebrities seeking to expand their popularity with the digital generation.
Launching the “Lee Young-ja Channel,” Thursday, she posted a 3 minute and 57 seconds video featuring her and YouTube star couple, BuzzBean and Yumdaeng, and called them her digital dad and mom, respectively.
Lee called them as such because the YouTube stars have inspired her to explore the digital lifestyle.
Lee Young-ja / Korea Times file
Behind the three was a man whom Lee introduced as her friend who volunteered to help her with video shooting and editing over a period of months.
Lee met the YouTube stars in the JTBC's reality show “Lanlife.” She, BuzzBean, Yumdaeng, and several other celebrities are cohosting the program.
Inspired by the YouTube creators in “Lanlife,” Lee frequently spoke openly about her wish to have her own channel. She made her dream come true Feb. 28, finally launching the “Lee Young-ja Channel.”
As of Sunday, the first video on the “Lee Young-ja Channel” has over 670,000 views, and about 110,000 people have subscribed to her channel.
Lee said she will focus on her interests rather than be distracted by the number of views.
She said she always wanted to make something of her own and to talk about a world she wants to live in. Lee expressed her willingness to reach out to and interact with her fans through her videos.
When asked if she had anything to share with journalists, Lee said she has lots of celebrity friends and thus can feature breaking news on her channel.
Some of her fans were curious what more of Lee they can see on her channel. Internet user Chiara commented, “You are already in the best place as a comedian and you must be so busy. Yet, it looks so nice that you keep trying out new challenges! I always support you, Lee Young-ja unnie.”
Fans like GulXGeneration expressed the excitement, “I'll be waiting for great content from you!”
Lee is well-known for her Mukbang and her exquisite talent in describing the taste of food. Internet user Darren Jun commented, “Please do Mukbang and vlog videos! Thank you”
She debuted as a comedian in 1991. Lee has expanded her fandom worldwide with her wits and sincerity in different programs like “Hello Counselor,” “Taxi,” “Omniscient,” and “Bob Bless You.” In 2018, she topped the SBS and MBC Entertainment Awards, clinching grand prizes.
International fans were also thrilled about her channel. Some fans like Blaqkitty requested for English subtitles for international fans.
Conversely, some were cautious of her YouTube debut. Some fans were worried about how harsh comments might hurt Lee while others were complaining how celebrities are dominating YouTube.
Lee Han-na is a Korea Times intern.