Rapper and broadcaster Defconn has paid tribute to the late Kim Joo-hyuk by sharing heartwarming stories and revealing for the first time the behind-the-scenes tale of his departure from 1 Night 2 Days.
On the 6th, Defconn shared a video on his YouTube channel showing him visiting Kim Joo-hyuk's grave. In the video, Defconn, who visited the grave located in Seosan, Chungcheongnam-do, stated, "Due to my schedule this year, I won't be able to attend on the anniversary, so I came a bit early," adding, "He is someone who understands everything. Now I come with a warm heart, not a heavy one."
Defconn has a connection with Kim Joo-hyuk from their time on KBS2's variety show 1 Night 2 Days Season 3. Defconn recalled, "About a year and a half after the program started, Kim Joo-hyuk's agency called me and said, 'It seems Joo-hyuk has to leave due to a new project.' Normally, in that situation, we don't try to hold them back, but strangely, I felt too regretful and said, 'Hyung, just finish the two years first and then leave.'"
He continued, "And then he really stayed for the full two years before leaving. He cherished his time with the members that much," stating, "At that moment, I thought, 'This hyung is really a hyung.' This is the first time I'm saying this on air."
Defconn placed a can of beer in front of the grave and said, "Hyung didn't have a strong tolerance for alcohol. He liked just a can of beer." He added, "I'm sure he would say, 'Defconn, you came? I'm watching you well.' I feel like everything I'm doing well these days is thanks to him."
In conclusion, Defconn shared, "If he were here, he would definitely say, 'Live your best every day, whether family or friends.' I still miss him from time to time."
Actor Kim Joo-hyuk was beloved as 'Brother Gu-taengi' during his appearances on 1 Night 2 Days Season 3 from 2013 to 2015. He left a lasting impression through numerous dramas and films before tragically passing away in a car accident at the age of 45 on October 30, 2017.