'Krazy Rich Korean' sheds lights on Korean trailblazers

Producer Lee Chang-soo, right, and presenters of KBS 2TV's reality show "Krazy Rich Korean" pose during a press conference at the KBS Annex in Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul, Tuesday. Courtesy of KBS

New observational reality show "Krazy Rich Korean" will highlight the lives and stories of world-class Koreans who showcase a "crazy presence" in their respective fields.

Producer Lee Chang-soo revealed that he was inspired by the unapologetic ambition of former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin, known for her creative leadership behind some of K-pop's most successful acts, including NewJeans. Despite her ongoing legal battles with HYBE, Ador's parent company, Min's infamous press conference served as a catalyst for Lee’s idea.

"This program came about after much thought following former Ador CEO Min's press conference," Lee said during a press conference Tuesday at the KBS Annex in Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul.

"I think Min clearly showed how 'crazy' one needs to be to succeed on the world stage, so I looked into it, and indeed, she was crazy."

Turning heads at the event, Lee paid cheeky homage by wearing a blue cap and green striped shirt — the same outfit Min wore during her April 2024 press conference. The outfit made headlines and quickly sold out after going viral.

He explained that the program sheds light on the craziness unique to Koreans.

"That's why our program title uses 'Krazy' with a 'K' instead of a 'C,'" he said.

"Krazy Rich Korean" will offer a multifaceted look into the lives of various Koreans active at the forefront of hallyu, or the Korean wave, and capture their success stories. It has garnered anticipation for revealing world-class Koreans and their workplaces, which haven't been easily seen on other shows before.

The first episode will feature cellist and conductor Han-na Chang. The stories of Kim Sang-sik, coach of the Vietnamese national football team, and Betty Park, who has been running Manna’s Restaurant for 40 years in Harlem, New York, will follow.

The producer clarified the program's definition of success is far from focusing solely on wealth.

"Although we did name it 'Rich,' we focused on the extent to which one must push and dedicate themselves to achieve success, and I believe that's the differentiating factor of this program," Lee said.

Park Se-ri, a legendary former professional golfer who is indeed a "Krazy Rich Korean" herself, identified the essence of being "krazy" as coming from the passion unique to Koreans. Park joins the show as one of the presenters.

"Watching Han-na Chang's daily life in the first episode, I could clearly relate. It was great to see the endless effort and passion required to succeed as a Korean in a foreign country. I believe we can convey a cheerful, bright and hopeful message without being boring or dull."

Chang, also present at the press conference, pointed out the key to success for Koreans lies in their emotional honesty.

"There's an authenticity at any moment, and that's also how I approach music," Chang said.

The musician, who rarely appears on TV, said show producer Lee drew her to appear on this show.

"It was my first time ever doing an observational reality show. Thanks to Lee's unique craziness, I disclosed my home, daily life, shopping and even walks. I wondered if I had lost my mind for a moment," she said.

"I decided to participate because I wanted many people to understand and easily enjoy the joy of classical music, which I love so much and which moves me."

"Krazy Rich Korean" will premiere on KBS 2 at 9:20 p.m. on Sunday.