Singer Lee Hyori is stepping in as a special MC for the premiere of KBS2’s revamped variety show Happy Together - I'm Not Alone Because We're Together (hereafter 'Happy Together').
On the 2nd, a broadcast representative told multiple outlets, "Lee Hyori took part in the first recording as a special MC." While she is not a fixed cast member, her presence on the inaugural episode marks the program’s fresh start with added impact.
What’s drawing the most attention is Lee Hyori’s reunion with Yoo Jae-suk. The two were dubbed the "Nation’s Siblings" during season 2 of Happy Together, delighting viewers with their playful chemistry. Since Lee Hyori stepped down in January 2007 to focus on her music career, this marks their first time meeting again as 'Happy Together' MCs in about 19 years.
Lee Hyori has a long history with Happy Together. She was selected as an MC for the very first season in 2002, teaming up with Shin Dong-yup, and later showcased rock-solid hosting chemistry with Yoo Jae-suk during the show’s peak era.
Returning after six years, 'Happy Together' is transforming from a traditional talk show into a storytelling music audition. True to its subtitle, anyone can apply as long as they participate as a team—regardless of age, genre, qualifications, or number of members.
The show goes beyond a simple vocal showdown, making a team’s reason for singing together, each member’s narrative, and their harmony the main judging criteria. Yoo Jae-suk, Jang Hang-jun, and Yoon Jong-shin have already been confirmed as MCs, with Lee Hyori boosting the revival as a special MC for the first episode.
Happy Together, which aired for roughly 20 years from 2001 to 2020, is one of KBS’s flagship variety IPs, remembered for hit segments like Tray Noraebang, Sauna Talk, Friends, and Late-night Snack Stall. With the beloved name returning in a new format, expectations are soaring.
The new season of 'Happy Together' is slated to premiere this July.