Kim Dong Wan, a member of the senior K-Pop group Shinhwa, has refused to appear on variety shows. He says such shows only showcase the depression and suffering of their guests. The former SM Entertainment artist expressed this in a social media post.
He spoke out because he had recently received numerous offers to appear on TV variety shows, which he had firmly declined. In his statement, Kim Dong Wan said he wasn't confident enough to be funny on TV variety shows.
Indeed, guests on these shows are often required to be funny to attract viewers. "I also don't want to show off real stories in public. These days, variety shows only want to portray depression, poverty, and show off suffering," he said, as reported by The Korea Times on Tuesday (September 9, 2025).
"Digging up the past only leaves wounds for me. Can I live in peace, pretending to be happy and successful? I just want to be alone," continued the man who was active as a K-Pop idol in the 2000s.
In several different posts, Kim Dong Wan hinted that a variety show crew had repeatedly approached him about appearing on TV. However, he consistently declined, even three times. The rejections were always for the same reason: scheduling incompatibilities.
Despite this, the same people kept pestering them to accommodate the schedule. "If I refuse you three times, please stop. I know you're just following your superior's orders," he said. Previously, the 45-year-old appeared on numerous variety shows, including "I Live Alone" and "Mr. House Husband."
Most recently, he appeared on MBC's "Radio Star," where he candidly discussed his life and opinions on marriage. According to Nielsen Korea, the Radio Star episode received excellent ratings, reaching 4.3%.
The highest rating in its Wednesday (August 27, 2025) evening slot. But it seems that was his last variety show. Kim Dong Wan currently prefers appearing in dramas and theater. Last month, he appeared in the popular KBS2 drama "For Eagle Brothers," which was a ratings success.
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