Hahaha Defends Jung Joon-won Amid ‘Play What?’ Variety Show Controversy

Actor Jung Joon-won appeared on MBC’s variety program “놀면 뭐하니?” (Play What?) on May 1, promoting the drama “유부녀 킬러” alongside actress Gong Hyo‑jin. During a line‑delivery challenge he hesitated, closing his eyes and failing to speak, which led to criticism online for a perceived passive attitude.

Co‑host Ha Dong‑hoon, known as HaHa, responded on social media, writing “현장에 있었던 사람인데 너무 사랑스럽고 귀엽고 재밌었다” (“I was there and he was so lovely, cute, funny”). He explained that his exaggerated reactions, such as throwing a hat, were intended for entertainment and urged viewers to be lenient, noting “첫 예능에 ‘놀면 뭐하니?’는 프로도 진짜 어렵다” (“Even professionals find ‘Play What?’ hard on their first variety show”). The episode recorded a 4.1 % rating in the Seoul metropolitan area, peaking at 6.0 %.

The short‑form clip of the incident spread on social platforms, sparking debate: some viewers called Jung’s performance “too passive for a promotional appearance,” while others cited his introverted nature and first‑time variety experience as mitigating factors. HaHa’s public clarification aimed to quell the backlash and rally support for the actor.