SBS is launching an innovative variety talk show that breaks away from traditional studio formats, featuring veteran actors Lee Seo-jin and Kim Kwang-kyu as one-day managers for fellow celebrities. "My Grumpy Secretary," which premiered Friday, offers a unique blend of candid emotions, sharp humor, and unscripted moments designed to reveal sides of celebrities typically hidden from the public eye.
Unlike conventional studio-based talk shows, the program follows stars throughout their daily schedules, capturing genuine conversations and spontaneous encounters. Producers describe it as a groundbreaking variety show that crosses boundaries between observation, caregiving, and private conversation, with Lee and Kim's sharp yet caring approach bringing out raw, unfiltered moments from their celebrity guests.
"There is a certain talk skill only noticeable to those who often see Seo-jin, and it's not in a standardized talk show but rather in private settings when he isn't conscious of the camera. In such moments, when he throws a question to someone, unexpected answers come out – and this format would suit the two of them perfectly," producer Kim Jung-wook explained during a press conference at Community House Masil in central Seoul on Thursday.
The unlikely duo, both in their 50s, brings a mismatched chemistry that producers describe as both bickering and deeply supportive, which is expected to be a key draw for viewers. Lee Seo-jin brings an impressive and diverse background to the show, including a business degree from New York University, experience as head of an asset management company, and even a water leisure instructor's license, all complementing his 26-year acting career and keen sense of empathy. He's already well-recognized as a master caretaker from previous travel variety shows, raising anticipation for the detailed attention he will showcase in his new managerial role.
Partnering with him is Kim Kwang-kyu, a down-to-earth entertainer whose life experience spans various blue-collar jobs, from nightclub waiter to salesman to taxi driver. With his approachable and warm energy, he's expected to shine as a reliable professional driving secretary while bringing plenty of laughs to the show. Their natural chemistry and contrasting personalities are set to be a key highlight of the program.
"Their playful, bickering chemistry is really great," the producer noted. "The production staff even joke that they're like a mom and dad. They argue a lot, but at the same time, they're the only ones who truly look out for each other – that's what makes their relationship fun to watch." He added an amusing observation about their on-set dynamics: "We've filmed four times now, and not once have they shown up in top shape. By the afternoon, when their energy starts to dip, the tables turn. Instead of being looked after, the stars end up taking care of them. That kind of role reversal, mixed with a generational gap, brings a lot of unexpected humor."
The show's premiere episode features comedian Lee Su-ji, one of 2025's breakout stars in variety entertainment, who has showcased her versatility through her alter ego rapper Hambuggy. "I didn't even know she had all these alter egos. Honestly, it was overwhelming. I didn't know how to react," Lee Seo-jin admitted about their first star guest, highlighting the show's emphasis on genuine, unscripted reactions.
Future episodes will welcome a diverse lineup of guests including actors Jang Ki-yong, Ahn Eun-jin, and Um Jee-won, promising varied dynamics and entertainment value. "My Grumpy Secretary" aims to carve out a refreshing space among Korean variety programming by focusing on authentic interactions rather than rehearsed segments.
As Lee Seo-jin explained the show's casting philosophy, the unpredictability factor is what makes the program truly entertaining. "It's not about inviting people I like, but people I don't really know – that's where the entertainment is," he said, emphasizing the show's commitment to genuine surprise and discovery in each episode.
