Kim Young Chul was absent from the latest episode of JTBC’s long-running variety show 'Knowing Bros', due to a recent health scare involving paralytic ileus. However, the show aired without acknowledging his absence, sparking criticism from viewers.
The August 2 episode featured musical guests 10CM's Kwon Jung Yeol, Heize, and Bolbbalgan4’s Ahn Ji Young, who showcased their charm and vocals during the show’s typical classroom-format banter. During the opening segment, the cast engaged in lighthearted commentary referencing memes and music, including Super Junior’s comeback. Yet, despite Kim Young Chul's noticeable absence, no mention was made—neither through captions nor verbal acknowledgment.
Typically seated at the front alongside Shindong, Kim Young Chul's desk was entirely removed, replaced with a solo desk for Shindong, making the absence even more conspicuous.
The omission drew attention, especially since Kim Young Chul had previously shared his diagnosis of paralytic ileus—a temporary intestinal blockage—via social media. On July 11, he posted a photo in a hospital gown, detailing how a sudden craving for spicy food led to abdominal pain severe enough to send him to the ER around midnight. He explained that doctors advised hospitalization and a restricted diet, and warned followers to be cautious with their eating habits, especially in the summer.
Meanwhile, Kim Young Chul’s close friend Heo Kyung Hwan temporarily filled in as a guest DJ on SBS PowerFM's 'Kim Young Chul’s PowerFM', expressing concern and support during the comedian’s recovery. The radio staff also thanked Heo Kyung Hwan for stepping in on short notice.
In contrast, the producers of 'Knowing Bros' offered no such gesture. This wasn’t the first time a cast member’s absence went unacknowledged—Lee Sang Min was also absent the previous week, with his desk removed but no explanation provided.
Some viewers felt the show’s attitude was cold, especially considering its 10-year legacy as one of JTBC’s flagship variety programs. While the show tends to highlight members’ personal milestones such as dating or marriage, its silence on health-related absences struck many as tone-deaf. Comparisons were drawn to other shows like tvN’s 'Iron Squad 2', where Park Joo Hyun’s car accident and absence were addressed directly by cast member Kim Dong Hyun, who explained her condition and reassured viewers.
Notably, this week’s 'Knowing Bros' episode recorded one of its lowest viewership ratings in recent memory, with a mere 1.7% nationwide—adding to concerns that the show may be losing touch with its audience.
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