Bill Gates films ‘You Quiz’ episode, sparks buzz with rare Korean TV appearance

Bill Gates with "You Quiz on the Block" host Yoo Jae-suk / Courtesy of tvN

Bill Gates, one of the world’s most influential figures, has completed filming an episode of tvN’s variety show “You Quiz on the Block,” sparking excitement and surprise among viewers.

On Wednesday, the program shared a behind-the-scenes photo with the caption, “We never thought this day would come … a day to be with this guest!” The image shows Gates smiling brightly while seated between hosts Yoo Jae-suk and Jo Se-ho, suggesting a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere during filming.

In this composite photo, Bill Gates is seen above, and below, Yoo Jae-suk, left, Bill Gates, and Jo Se-ho / Courtesy of tvN

Fans expressed astonishment online, with comments like, “I thought it was photoshopped, but it’s real,” “What’s Gates doing there?” and “Yoo Jae-suk and Bill Gates together — unbelievable!” Others wondered, “Did they film right after he landed? I can’t believe this actually happened.”

Gates, a Microsoft co-founder, is widely regarded as one of the key architects of the digital revolution. Through the Gates Foundation, he continues to focus on global challenges including public health, education, climate change and poverty alleviation. He has pledged to donate nearly 280 trillion won ($204 billion) — including 99 percent of his personal wealth and foundation contributions — to philanthropic causes by 2045.

“‘You Quiz’ respects the value of all lives and seeks to foster understanding through diverse human stories," said Nam Seung-yong, managing director at CJ ENM. "This aligns closely with the Gates Foundation’s belief that ‘every life has equal value.’ We are honored to feature Bill Gates, a person connecting the world through technology and changing it through philanthropy.”

This article from Xportsnews is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.